Abdominal Pain

What is abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain is discomfort that occurs anywhere between the chest and pelvis. It may feel sharp, dull, cramping, burning, constant, or intermittent and can have many possible causes.​

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What are causes of abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain can be caused by digestive conditions, infections, inflammation, or problems affecting organs within the abdomen including: 

• Constipation

• Diarrhea

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Acid reflux (GERD)

• Gastritis

• Stomach ulcers

• Gallstones

• Diverticulitis

• Celiac disease

• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis)

• Pancreatitis

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What symptoms may occur with abdominal pain?

• Bloating

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Unexplained weight loss

• Blood in the stool

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When should you see a doctor for abdominal pain?

You should seek medical attention if abdominal pain is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or dehydration.​​​

How is abdominal pain diagnosed?
A gastroenterologist may diagnose the cause of abdominal pain through a physical examination, medical history, blood tests, stool studies, imaging tests, endoscopy, or colonoscopy. The recommended testing depends on your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings.

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Persistent or recurring abdominal pain may indicate an underlying digestive condition. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tenembaum or Dr. Aviles for evaluation and treatment.​​​​