There are many reasons you may experience abdominal pain, including an emergency situation. This symptom could be the result of eating something that did not agree with you, a problem with an internal organ, the result of an infection or one of many other causes. Proper diagnosis is required to determine the cause and find a suitable treatment.

Abdominal pain can involve the tissues of the abdominal wall but usually involves the organs within the abdominal cavity. These organs include the stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Sometimes pain from organs outside the abdominal cavity can radiate and feel as though it is located within the abdomen. This can include pain from the lower lungs, kidneys and the uterus or ovaries in women.

Finding the source of your abdominal pain is the first step in getting relief. Your doctor needs to know if the pain started suddenly or has increased or stayed the same over time. Some pain may be minor, severe or intermittent. You will need to describe the location, type of pain and duration to your doctor.

Contacting Your Doctor

Some abdominal pain will resolve on its own. A bowel movement, taking over-the-counter pain relievers or an antacid can help certain causes of abdominal pain. When your pain is severe, does not subside or returns frequently, you should contact your doctor.

Abdominal pain with fever, vomiting or pain when you urinate may require an urgent care visit. Be on the lookout for signs of dehydration: dark-colored urine, infrequent urination and unusual thirst.

Other signs that require immediate attention are:

• Constant vomiting
• Bloody, black or tarry bowel movements
• Trouble breathing
• Swelling in the belly
• Yellowing skin
• Abdominal pain with pregnancy

If you have abdominal pain from a recent injury or if the pain is accompanied with chest pains, you should call 9-1-1.

Dr. Michael has years of experience diagnosing and treating a variety of conditions that can cause abdominal pain. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and find out the source of your abdominal pain.