We have all had our share of nasty stomach pains after overeating, eating undercooked food, or eating something that has spoiled. We recognize and suffer the consequences, and maybe we pop a couple of antacid pills and move on. At other times our stomach pain can be a more serious situation, like these 10 specific stomach pains that require further treatment.
Stomach Pains That Require Immediate Attention
Several types of stomach pain are signs of a medical emergency, and they require prompt medical treatment. If you experience these types of pains, do not wait to seek treatment.
Severe Pain in the Lower Right Abdomen
If you notice intense pain in the lower right abdomen that comes on suddenly, it could be appendicitis. This condition can also bring on a rising fever and vomiting, especially if the pain starts at the navel and continues to get worse. It is best for individuals with these symptoms to go to the nearest emergency room. Left untreated, your appendix could rupture.
Sudden Onset of Right or Left Lower Abdomen Pain in Women
This sudden stomach pain could be a ruptured ovarian cyst, which can occur during mid-cycle. It may indicate an ovarian torsion, meaning a rotation or twisted ovary. Ruptured or twisted ovaries require an immediate trip to the ER and possible surgical intervention to remove the ovary.
Sudden and Severe Pain in the Mid-Abdomen
If you are someone who has a peptic ulcer and takes excessive amounts of aspirin or NSAID pain relievers, this specific type of stomach pain could very well be caused by a perforated ulcer. If not treated in a timely fashion, dangerous consequences like peritonitis and septic shock can occur. At the very least, you should call Agave Surgical Specialists, or go to the emergency room right away.
Stomach Pain That May Require Attention by Agave Surgical Specialists
Severe Stomach Pain and Cramps
Pain in the lower abdomen with either diarrhea or constipation accompanied by bloating and cramps could be symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Young women seem to be at the highest risk for this condition.
Upper Abdominal Pain
This type of pain can feel like an ache, increasing pressure, or be a stabbing pain. If located just under the ribs and accompanied by shortness of breath, this kind of discomfort could be heart related. Many times it can be mistaken for indigestion, though anyone who is diabetic or has hypertension should see Agave Surgical Specialists as soon as possible.
Pain After a Fatty Meal
Many times after consuming a fatty meal, we can develop severe pain in our stomachs. It may just be the meal, but it could also be a gallbladder attack. Women in their 40s who are overweight are at the highest risk for gallbladder problems. If the pain gets progressively worse, seek treatment from a medical professional.
Vague Upper Abdomen Pain
If you are an older adult, and this vague pain is accompanied with nausea, belching, and burping, it may actually be signs of a heart attack. If the symptoms also include vomiting and pain in the jaw and back with shortness of breath, call Agave Surgical Specialists immediately or go to the nearest ER.
Severe Pain like a Knife in the Lower Abdomen
Sometimes this knife-like pain is located in the lower back. If you also have chills, vomiting, and a fever, it may be kidney stones. Although quite painful, kidney stones are not life threatening. Take anti-inflammatory medications for pain as soon as possible, and have an ultrasound to rule out any other medical issues. The stones may pass on their own, or you may need surgical intervention from Agave Surgical Specialists if the stones cause a blockage.
Pain in the Lower Left Side of the Abdomen
If this stomach pain seems to get worse when you move, it could be diverticulitis. This condition causes pouches of tissue to form within the colon that can become inflamed or infected. Take OTC acetaminophen and stool softeners to reduce the risk of an abscess, and seek treatment if these remedies do not begin to improve your symptoms.
Stomach Pain from Dehydration
It is possible to develop stomach pain from being dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when your body has lost too much fluid, and it cannot function normally. Signs of dehydration include stomach pain, fever, difficulty breathing, decrease in urine production, and even seizures. Drink fluids with electrolytes to help replenish your body quickly, and be sure to seek professional treatment if the case is severe.
Contact Agave Surgical Specialists if your stomach pain is intense, comes on suddenly, and occurs with other symptoms, as this could be a serious medical issue.
As always, if you have any further questions, please call our Chandler office at (602) 582-5233 today!
