I. Causes Of Acute Abdominal Pain
1. Acute Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix can lead to sharp pain in the lower right abdomen.
2. Cholecystitis (Gall Bladder Inflammation): Gallstones can trigger pain in the upper abdomen, especially after meals.
3. Acute Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain, often radiating to the back.
4. Perforated Peptic Ulcer: A hole in the stomach or small intestine can cause sudden, intense pain.
5. Intestinal Issues: Obstruction or perforation of the intestines can result in acute abdominal pain.
6. Mesenteric Vascular Ischemia: Reduced blood supply to the intestines can lead to abdominal pain.
7. Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon can cause discomfort.
8. Renal and Ureteric Stones: Kidney stones can cause sharp pain, and infections like pyelonephritis may lead to abdominal discomfort.
9. Metabolic Causes: Conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, uremia, and porphyria can contribute to abdominal pain.
10. Gynecological Issues: Ectopic pregnancy, abortion, or ovarian tumors can lead to abdominal pain.
II. Causes Of Chronic Abdominal Pain
1. Functional Dyspepsia: Persistent indigestion and bloating without an organic cause.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A common digestive disorder causing long-term discomfort.
3. Peptic Ulcer Disease: Chronic sores in the stomach or small intestine.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Conditions like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease can cause ongoing abdominal pain.
5. Chronic Pancreatitis and Cholecystitis: Ongoing inflammation of the pancreas or gallbladder.
6. Abdominal Tuberculosis: TB affecting the abdomen can lead to chronic pain.
7. Fluid in Peritoneal Cavity: Accumulation of fluid due to tuberculosis, pancreatitis, or malignancy.
8. Tumors: Growth in the stomach, intestine, liver, or pancreas can cause persistent pain.
III. Treatment
The key to effective treatment lies in understanding the cause. For acute pain, immediate medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis through thorough investigations. Chronic pain often stems from functional disorders like dyspepsia and IBS, diagnosed once other causes are ruled out.
Your abdominal pain is your body’s way of signaling a potential issue. Whether it’s a passing discomfort or a lingering problem, listening to your body and seeking timely medical advice is essential for a healthier, pain-free life.