Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

Having temporary or chronic abdominal pain can be a mild inconvenience but repeated episodes may cause a significant impact on your overall well-being. There are many different causes of abdominal pain, most of which are temporary and can be relieved with home remedies or over-the-counter medications. Others may require more serious treatment from your GP.

The most common causes of abdominal pain — such as indigestion, a pulled muscle, or gas pains — usually aren't serious. However, there are certain conditions that may require urgent medical attention.

Acute abdominal pain usually resolves itself over the course of a few hours to a few days.

Chronic abdominal pain, on the other hand, might be intermittent (episodic), meaning it may come and then take longer to go. This type of abdominal pain (which is less typical) can be present for weeks to months, or even years – depending on the condition. Certain chronic conditions cause pain that is progressive, steadily getting worse over time. For these conditions, medical treatment by a GP is required.

Here are the 6 Most Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

   1. Constipation

Constipation results from a large build-up of dry or hard waste in your bowels and is one of the most common digestive problems in the UK. Constipation can happen for many reasons, but two common causes are not staying properly hydrated and not including enough fiber in your daily diet. Slow-moving, hard waste adds pressure on your colon, which can lead to abdominal pain.

   2. Gastritis

Gastritis is a (chronic or acute) condition that causes inflammation and irritation in your stomach lining which leads to abdominal pain, bloating, and a painful gnawing feeling in your stomach.

   3. Food intolerance

Some people are unable to properly digest certain types of food (think lactose intolerance) which results in excessive gas build-up, causing bloating and abdominal pain

   4. Gastroenteritis

Simply put, gastroenteritis is the stomach flu. Eating spoiled food or viruses is usually the cause and it usually resolves itself after a few days.

Gastroenteritis causes symptoms like:

• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Gas

   5.  Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition that causes frequent, persistent acid reflux which results in chronic pain and cramps in your upper abdomen.

upper abdomen.

   6.  Urinary tract infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can also affect your abdomen, causing pain, bloating, and excessive pressure.

How to Treat Abdominal Pain

In many cases, abdominal pain can resolve on its own. But for some people, extra measures are required to relieve abdominal pain. For simple treatment of painful stomach cramps and abdominal pain, you should rest, stay hydrated, and avoid foods that may irritate your stomach. Taking over-the-counter gas antacids or medications can also relieve indigestion and help ease an upset stomach.

Some conditions such as Crohn’s disease and other forms of inflammatory bowel syndrome may require medication.

Other treatments may include:

• Antibiotics for infections
• Anti-inflammatory or pain relief medications
• Acid reducers for acid reflux and GERD
• Lifestyle changes such as starting to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly

When does abdominal pain require medical attention?

Mild abdominal pain isn’t usually a cause for concern. However, persistent abdominal pain could be a sign of a more serious underlying problem. Other symptoms and signs and symptoms that can require urgent care include:

• Sore and tender abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Swelling in your abdomen
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Bloody stools or rectal bleeding
• Yellowing skin or eyes
• Signs of a UTI

Living with abdominal pain can make daily life and tasks challenging. Shop online at Online4Pharmacy for a full range of over-the-counter medications to relieve abdominal pain.