Abdominal pain is a type of discomfort that occurs in the abdomen. The lower boundary of the ribs and diaphragm above, the pelvic bone (pubic ramus) below, and the flanks on each side define the abdomen. Although pain can begin from the tissues of the abdominal wall that surround its cavity (such as the skin and muscles), the phrase "abdominal pain" means discomfort caused by organs within the abdominal cavity. The stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder, spleen, and pancreas are among the organs that make up the abdomen.

Causes of Abdominal Pain

Many conditions can cause abdominal pain. Infection, aberrant growths, inflammation, obstruction (blockage), and digestive problems are the most common causes.

Bacteria can enter your digestive tract as a result of infections in the throat, intestines, or blood, causing stomach pain. Changes in indigestion, such as diarrhea or constipation, may occur as a result of these illnesses. The following are some more prevalent causes of stomach pain:

• Constipation 
• Diarrhea 
• A stomach ache (stomach flu)
• Acid indigestion (when stomach contents leak backward into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms)
• Vomiting 
• Stress
• Cancer

Severe abdominal pain includes:- 

• Kidney infection
• Gallbladder stones
• Kidney stones
• Organ rupture 

Types of Abdominal Pain

Localized, cramp-like or colicky abdominal pain are all terms used to describe abdominal pain.

• The pain is restricted to a single location of the abdomen. This form of discomfort is frequently caused by issues with a certain organ. Stomach ulcers are the most common source of localized pain (open sores on the stomach’s inner lining).
• Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or gas can all cause cramp-like pain. It has been linked to menstruation, miscarriage, and reproductive difficulties in women. This discomfort comes and goes, and it may or may not go away on its own.
• Colicky pain can be a sign of something more serious, such as gallstones or kidney stones. This discomfort comes on abruptly and can be excruciating.

When is Abdominal Pain an Emergency? 

If your abdominal pain is getting severe or it is accompanied by any of the below-mentioned symptoms, contact your healthcare expert as soon as possible:-

• Bloody stools 
• Difficulty in breathing
• Pain lasts for several days
• The abdomen is tender to touch
• Blood in vomiting 
• Pain caused by an injury to the abdomen in the previous days
• Nausea
• Fever 
• Abdominal pain lasts longer than 24 hours
• Prolonged constipation
• Weight loss 
• Loss of appetite 

All the listed symptoms are the indication of infection, internal inflammation, or bleeding that requires immediate attention by a medical specialist. These symptoms can also lead to a cause of some severe diseases and disorders.

Prevention of Abdominal Pain

There are significant changes you can make, to minimize the risk of abdominal pain. Some lifestyle changes might be helpful, but the cause of pain depends on the condition. However, contact your physician if the pain lasts longer:-

• Maintain a healthy diet 
• Avoid fried and spicy meals
• Drink water frequently and stay hydrated
• Eat smaller meals 
• Exercise regularly 
• Eat nutritious food 
• Consider over-the-counter medicines
• Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol
• Take ginger and peppermint 

Follow the diet provided by your healthcare expert to reduce the discomfort. Your physician decides what is the right treatment option for you based on the cause of your abdominal pain.