Abdominal pain can be debilitating and mysterious. However, Dr. Ian Martinez and the team at Gastroenterology Services in Oviedo, FL, can provide the care and expertise you need.
What Causes Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain refers to discomfort anywhere between the ribs and the pelvis area. Depending on the origin, the pain may be acute or dull, recurrent, persistent, or chronic.
While stomachaches, or digestive issues, are included in this definition, abdominal pain may stem from conditions involving other organs, muscles, or tissue. There are several causes of abdominal pain, including:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Injury
- Disease
- Digestive issues
The location of the pain can be a strong indicator of the precise issue. For instance, pain in the upper abdomen may be connected to the gallbladder, liver, stomach, or spleen. In comparison, pain in the lower abdomen is often associated with the intestine, appendicitis, or gynecological issues.
Many causes of abdominal pain do not require urgent medical attention, such as a stomach virus, food poisoning, gas pain, and constipation. However, pain that is more intense, long-lasting, or has progressively worsened may suggest something more serious.
Pain resulting from an injury or during pregnancy may require immediate medical intervention and should be brought to a doctor's attention as soon as possible.
When to Talk to a Health Care Provider
If you are in the Oviedo, FL, area and are experiencing abdominal pain with no apparent cause, such as illness or injury, you should consult a provider to pinpoint the root cause.
Providing as much information about the issue as possible will help your healthcare provider reach an accurate diagnosis. For example, you should describe the nature of the discomfort, the precise area where the pain occurs, and the scope of time. Additionally, you should disclose any accompanying symptoms, such as fever, vomiting, and bleeding, as they can indicate a specific condition.
With a better understanding of your concerns, your healthcare provider can decide whether any testing is necessary and what the appropriate treatments may be. Treatments may include medications or lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. More severe symptoms may require medical attention.
Dr. Martinez and the staff at Gastroenterology Services in Oviedo, FL, treat abdominal pain armed with experience and a commitment to education. If you would like to learn more, call (407) 478-0882 to schedule an appointment.