Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit their primary care physician. It can range from mild, self-limited discomfort to a sign of a serious underlying condition. At Norvinia Health, Dr. Mamta Ojha takes a thorough, personalized approach to evaluating abdominal pain, helping determine the cause and the right course of treatment.
What Causes Abdominal Pain?
The abdomen contains many organs, so pain can originate from the digestive tract, urinary system, reproductive organs, or even the heart and lungs in some cases. Common causes include:
- Gastritis or acid reflux (GERD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Constipation
- Gallstones or gallbladder disease
- Peptic ulcers
- Urinary tract infections or kidney stones
- Diverticulitis
- Food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance
- Appendicitis
- Ovarian cysts or menstrual-related pain
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
When Is Abdominal Pain an Emergency?
Some symptoms accompanying abdominal pain require immediate emergency evaluation rather than a routine primary care visit:
- Sudden, severe, or worsening pain
- Pain with a rigid, board-like abdomen
- Persistent vomiting, especially with blood
- Black, tarry, or bloody stools
- High fever with abdominal pain
- Inability to pass stool or gas with vomiting
- Pain during pregnancy
- Signs of shock, such as fainting, rapid heartbeat, or confusion
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency care right away or call 911.
How Is Abdominal Pain Evaluated?
At Norvinia Health, evaluating abdominal pain starts with a detailed history and physical exam to understand the location, quality, timing, and triggers of the pain. Depending on findings, further workup may include:
- Blood tests to check for infection, inflammation, or organ function
- Urinalysis
- Stool testing
- Abdominal ultrasound or CT imaging
- Referral for endoscopy or colonoscopy when indicated
- H. pylori testing for suspected ulcers
Common Treatment Approaches
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause and may include:
- Dietary changes, such as reducing trigger foods or increasing fiber
- Acid-reducing medications for reflux or ulcers
- Antibiotics for confirmed bacterial infections
- Antispasmodic medications for IBS
- Referral to a gastroenterologist or surgeon for complex or structural conditions
- Lifestyle changes, including stress management and regular physical activity
The Importance of Regular Primary Care
Chronic or recurring abdominal pain deserves a thorough evaluation rather than being dismissed. Dr. Mamta Ojha works closely with patients to identify the root cause of abdominal symptoms and build a treatment plan tailored to their needs, coordinating with specialists when necessary.
If you are experiencing ongoing or concerning abdominal pain, schedule an appointment with Norvinia Health today.
References
American College of Gastroenterology — Clinical Guidelines on Abdominal Pain and Related Conditions.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) — Digestive Disease Information.
