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Abdominal Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments To Ease Discomfort and Promote Health
Having abdominal pain can be a very uncomfortable experience. It can cause anxiety, fear, and even disability. Fortunately, there is a wide range of treatments available to help relieve discomfort and promote better health.
Abdominal Pain Symptoms
Abdominal pain can be difficult to diagnose or task. It can range from mild to severe, depending on the cause. Common symptoms of abdominal pain include:
- Pain in the abdomen.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Loss of appetite.
- Bloating and gas.
- Cramping or sharp pains.
- Constipation.
- Diarrhea.
- Blood in your stool.
What Causes Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain can be the result of a variety of medical conditions, including:
- Infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic).
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis).
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- Appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix).
- Diverticulitis (inflamed diverticula in the digestive system).
- Gallstones.
- Kidney stones.
- Ulcers.
- Hernias.
- Cancer.
Treatments for Abdominal Pain
Treatment for abdominal pain will usually depend on the underlying cause. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Medication: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, antidiarrheal medications, etc.
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding foods that irritate the digestive system.
- Adopting stress-management techniques, such as yoga, massage, or mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
- Undergoing surgery to repair hernias, remove diverticula, or remove cancerous tissue.
- Drinking plenty of fluids to help keep the digestive tract lubricated.
- Using Lifestyle Changes To Manage Symptoms: Getting regular exercise, giving up smoking and drinking alcohol, and avoiding spicy and fatty foods.
What To Do if You’re Experiencing Abdominal Pain
If you experience abdominal pain, it’s important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause. Treating the underlying cause of your abdominal pain may help reduce discomfort and improve your overall health.