The causes of abdominal pain can be very diverse. Conditions such as digestive system problems, intestinal infections, ulcers, stones in organs such as gallbladder or kidney stones, strain of abdominal muscles, gas accumulation, intestinal obstruction and reproductive system problems can cause abdominal pain. Abdominal pain often comes with accompanying symptoms. These symptoms may include bloating, gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fever, urinary changes, and bloody stools.
Abdominal pain is a condition that requires diagnosis of the underlying cause. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if the pain is severe or persistent, accompanied by other symptoms, or has difficulty identifying the cause of the pain. The specialist will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination and, if necessary, request further investigations. After the correct diagnosis is made, the appropriate treatment plan is determined and it is aimed to relieve the abdominal pain. Abdominal pain can be caused by many different reasons. Abdominal pain causes:
- Gastrointestinal problems such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, reflux, digestive tract infections (for example, gastroenteritis), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation or diarrhea can cause abdominal pain.
- Intestinal problems such as intestinal infections, intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal inflammation (for example, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) can cause abdominal pain.
- Stones formed in the gallbladder or kidneys can cause severe abdominal pain. This pain can often radiate to the back or sides.
- In women, reproductive system problems such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis or problems with the uterus can cause abdominal pain.
- Excessive exercise, heavy lifting, or trauma to the abdominal muscles can lead to abdominal pain.
- A condition that affects the digestive system, IBS is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits.
- Other medical conditions such as ulcerative colitis, pancreatitis, appendicitis, kidney infections, urinary stones, abdominal wall hernias can also cause abdominal pain.
It is important that you be examined by a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause of abdominal pain. The specialist will listen to your medical history, perform a physical examination and, if necessary, request additional tests. In this way, correct diagnosis can be made and appropriate treatment methods can be applied.
How to deal with abdominal pain may vary depending on the diagnosis of the underlying cause. If abdominal pain is a sign of a serious condition or persists for a long time, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. The specialist can diagnose the cause of the pain and determine the appropriate treatment plan. But in general, the following methods can help relieve abdominal pain:
- If you are suffering from abdominal pain, your body needs rest. Resting in bed or in a comfortable position can relieve pain.
- You can apply hot or cold compresses to relieve abdominal pain.
- A hot compress relaxes the muscles and provides relief, while a cold compress can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. You can determine which type of compress works best for you by trying it.
- Drinking plenty of water can facilitate digestion and regulate the bowels.
- Herbal teas or soothing drinks such as ginger tea made with warm water can also relieve abdominal pain.
- Avoiding heavy, greasy or spicy foods can relax your digestive system.
- It is important to choose light foods that facilitate digestion and can reduce abdominal pain.
- For mild abdominal pain, you can use painkillers recommended by your doctor. However, you should avoid using these drugs for a long time or regularly without consulting your doctor.
- Stress can trigger or worsen abdominal pain. You can try relaxation techniques, meditation, or deep breathing to manage stress.
What is good for severe stomach pain?
Severe abdominal pain can be a sign of appendicitis, gallstones, intestinal obstruction, or another serious medical condition. For these reasons, it is important to seek professional medical advice. For emergencies, you should apply to the nearest health institution. However, if you are unable to seek immediate medical attention or have medical assistance, you can try the following steps:
- Get into a comfortable position to relieve abdominal pain. Lying on their back or sitting in a semi-sitting position may provide relief for some people.
- A hot compress can relax the muscles, while a cold compress can help reduce pain.
- Breathing deeply and exhaling slowly can provide relief and relax the muscles.
- Drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, or soothing drinks such as ginger tea made with warm water can also relieve pain.
For severe abdominal pain, you can use painkillers recommended by your doctor. However, you should avoid using these drugs for a long time or regularly without consulting your doctor.
What causes abdominal pain during pregnancy?
Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be caused by various reasons. Growths in the baby and uterus during pregnancy can often cause abdominal pain, and this is usually considered natural. If you experience severe, persistent, or worrying abdominal pain during pregnancy, you should consult your healthcare provider. Your doctor will evaluate the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment or management plan for you. Here are some common causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy:
- As pregnancy progresses, the uterus grows and expands. This can cause muscle tension and pain in the abdomen.
- As the uterus enlarges during pregnancy, abdominal pain may be felt as a result of regression.
- Pregnancy hormones can have an effect on the digestive system and cause digestive issues such as constipation, gas or heartburn. These conditions can cause abdominal pain.
- As the uterus grows, the ligaments can stretch and cause pain in the abdomen.
- False contractions, called Braxton Hicks contractions, may occur. These contractions are related to prenatal muscle preparation and may present with abdominal pain or discomfort.
- The growth and movement of the baby can cause discomfort and pain in the abdomen.
What is good for stomachache in children?
Abdominal pain in children can be caused by various reasons, and the method of treatment may vary depending on the determination of the cause. For the treatment of abdominal pain in children, options such as rest, keeping warm, increasing fluid intake can be applied. Some common methods such as these can help relieve abdominal pain in children. An important point is to consult a healthcare professional if your child’s abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or worrisome. The doctor will assess the child’s condition and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. Here are some methods that can be good for abdominal pain in children:
- Rest: Let your child rest. Abdominal pain can usually be relieved by rest and calm.
- Applying hot or cold compresses: A hot or cold compress can relieve pain in your child’s abdomen. For this, you can wrap a hot water bag or ice pack in a towel and apply it to the abdomen. However, you should apply it by paying attention to the temperature of the compress and the reaction of the child.
- Light massage: Giving a light massage can help your child relax and ease abdominal pain. You should use gentle movements while massaging and make sure your child is comfortable.
- Increasing fluid intake: Getting your child to drink enough water is important to ensure hydration and support the digestive system. You can also prevent digestive problems such as constipation by drinking plenty of water.
- Paying attention to your diet: Make sure your child follows a healthy and balanced diet. Avoid foods that are too oily, spicy or heavy.