Abdominal Pain - WellAlly
Comprehensive guide to abdominal pain causes and when to seek emergency care. Learn about stomach pain symptoms and treatments.
🚨 Medical Emergency Warning
Some symptoms may require urgent medical evaluation. Know when to seek emergency care.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
What It Feels Like
Abdominal pain can feel like: • Cramping or aching • Sharp or stabbing pain • Burning sensation • Bloating or pressure • Waves of pain (colic) • Tenderness to touch
Types & Categories
Upper Abdominal Pain
Pain in upper stomach area, often related to GERD, gastritis, or ulcers.
Lower Abdominal Pain
Pain in lower abdomen, often related to appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or diverticulitis.
Right Upper Quadrant Pain
Pain in right upper abdomen under ribs, often gallbladder or liver related.
Left Upper Quadrant Pain
Pain in left upper abdomen under ribs, often stomach or spleen related.
Common Causes
Gastritis
Inflammation of stomach lining often caused by infection or NSAIDs.
Appendicitis
Inflammation of appendix, a medical emergency.
Gallstones
Hard deposits in gallbladder causing pain, especially after fatty meals.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Functional disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel changes.
Kidney Stones
Hard deposits in kidneys causing severe flank and abdominal pain.
Risk Factors
Warning Signs & Emergency Symptoms
Warning Signs
⚠️ Severe or worsening pain
⚠️ Pain with fever
⚠️ Pain with vomiting blood
⚠️ Pain with difficulty breathing
⚠️ Pain during pregnancy
🚨 Call 911 For:
! Severe acute abdominal pain
! Rigid abdomen
! Blood in vomit or stool
! High fever with pain
! Trauma to abdomen
Immediate Actions While Waiting for Help
Self-Care & Home Management
How Doctors Diagnose This Symptom
Related Lab Tests
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
Evaluates liver and kidney function
Treatment Options
Related Medications
When to See a Doctor
Severe or persistent pain
Pain with fever
Pain with vomiting
Unexplained weight loss with pain
Blood in stool
Prevention & Lifestyle Changes
Prevention Tips
✓ Eat a healthy diet
✓ Limit alcohol and caffeine
✓ Manage stress
✓ Exercise regularly
✓ Stay hydrated
Lifestyle Changes
→ Regular meal times
→ Avoid trigger foods
→ Stress management
→ Regular exercise
→ Adequate fiber intake
Related Medical Conditions
Appendicitis
Inflammation of appendix requiring surgery
Related Symptoms
Nausea and Vomiting
Learn more →
Diarrhea
Learn more →
Constipation
Learn more →
Fatigue and Tiredness
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
When is abdominal pain an emergency?
Seek emergency care for severe or sudden pain, rigid abdomen, blood in vomit or stool, high fever, or pain after trauma. These may indicate appendicitis, perforated ulcer, or other serious conditions.
What does appendicitis pain feel like?
Appendicitis pain often starts around the navel and migrates to the lower right abdomen. It's usually sharp and worsens with movement, coughing, or jarring bumps. Seek immediate care if suspected.
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Trust & Medical Review
This content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability
Medically Reviewed
This content has been reviewed by medical professionals to ensure it meets the latest medical standards and clinical practice guidelines.
Expert Team
Our content is created by a team of licensed physicians, nurses, and medical writers to ensure accuracy, clarity, and practical utility.
Evidence-Based
All health information is based on peer-reviewed research, clinical guidelines, and recommendations from authoritative health organizations like CDC, WHO, and Mayo Clinic.
Regularly Updated
January 2025
We regularly review and update our content to reflect the latest medical research and clinical practices.
References & Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Mayo Clinic
World Health Organization (WHO)
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call emergency services immediately.
Medical Review Team
Dr. Michael Rodriguez, MD
Internal Medicine Physician
Internal Medicine
Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified internist with expertise in primary care and preventive medicine.
Remember: In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Emergency?
Call 911 immediately for severe symptoms.