Periumbilical pain: Causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor

Abdominal pain can occur due to various reasons. Indigestion and acidity being the most common causes for it. The healthcare providers perform a detailed examination to know exactly the place of abdominal pain. So, they can reach the right diagnosis and hence treatment. Generally, abdominal pain resolves on its own with over-the-counter medications. But sometimes, it may linger on, indicating some serious health problem. If you have a complaint of abdominal pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter medications, you must consult a health care provider. For expert advice, you can consult with a general physician in Lahore. 

What are the causes of acute abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain can occur due to various reasons. The following health conditions can be a cause for it.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Aorta is the largest blood vessel of the body. The inflammation of the aorta- the blood vessel that runs down from your heart to your abdomen through the center of your chest can cause acute abdominal pain. Since inflammation of the aorta may result in bleeding, this condition can be life-threatening. 

Appendicitis

The appendix is a finger-like projection that is located at the lower side of your abdomen. Its inflammation can occur due to infection, which can cause acute abdominal pain. Appendicitis needs to be operated promptly. If left untreated, it can burst, and the infection can spread to nearby tissues. 

Cholecystitis

The gall bladder is an organ located at the right side of your abdomen beneath your liver. It holds bile, a digestive fluid that aids in digestion. Inflammation of the gall bladder is known as cholecystitis. It can cause acute abdominal pain. Often it is accompanied by severe nausea and vomiting. Cholangitis- blockage of the bile duct can also cause abdominal pain. 

Cystitis

Cystitis is the inflammation of the urinary bladder. Most commonly, it occurs due to a urinary tract infection. It can also occur due to some medicines. Cystitis needs to be treated soon. Otherwise, the infection may travel to the kidneys and can cause damage. Cystitis most commonly occurs due to bacterial infection. To treat it, healthcare professionals may prescribe you antibiotics. 

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a condition in which your body produces blood acid called ketones. It occurs when your body is unable to produce insulin- a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Diabetic ketoacidosis can cause abdominal pain and is a medical emergency that needs to be treated as soon as possible. 

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is one that occurs outside of the uterus. It can occur in the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancy can be highly painful and needs to be aborted as soon as possible. 

Intestinal obstruction 

Any obstruction in your intestine can keep food and liquid from passing through your small or large intestine, causing acute abdominal pain. 

Kidney stones or infection

Kidney stones, also known as nephrolithiasis or renal calculi, are deposits of minerals and salts that occur inside your kidney. They can cause severe acute abdominal pain that may start from your back and travel in the front. The pain due to kidney stones can be highly painful, and if they obstruct the urinary system, the urine flow can be affected. Therefore you must report to the healthcare provider if you have the pain of kidney stones. 

Conclusion 

Abdominal pain can occur due to various reasons. Mostly it gets better on its own. But sometimes, it may be an indicator of some serious underlying health condition. If you have a complaint of abdominal pain, you must visit the general physician in Islamabad.