The abdomen is an anatomical area that is bounded by the lower margin of the ribs and diaphragm above, the pelvic bone (pubic ramus) below, and the flanks on each side. Although abdominal pain can arise from the tissues of the abdominal wall that surround the abdominal cavity (such as the skin and abdominal wall muscles), the term abdominal pain generally is used to describe pain originating from organs within the abdominal cavity.
Organs of the abdomen include the stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder, spleen, and pancreas. Abdominal pain can range in intensity from a mild stomach ache to severe acute pain. The pain is often nonspecific and can be caused by a variety of conditions.
Abdominal pain is one of the most common ailments and it triggered by an endless number of factors. According to experts, about 90% of people deal with abdominal ache. Sometimes, its intensity may seem pretty scary, but it does not necessarily mean that you are dealing with a serious health problem. However, oftentimes it indicates a chronic condition that you should treat.
If your pain lasts for more than two weeks, accompanied with lont-term bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, and blood in the stool, make sure you consult your doctor to avoid any severe health problem and a serious diagnosis. Abdominal pain is pretty much every ache in the area between your chest and groin. It is quite a large area, so you need to locate the exact aching spot in order to determine its real cause.
1. Where does the pain start?
- Upper right: If you’re experiencing a stabbing pain in the upper right part of your abdomen, gallstones may be to blame.
- Lower uterus: If you’re experiencing a clenching cramp in your lower uterus, it’s probably a menstrual cramp.
- Upper middle: A fiery, burning sensation in the middle of your stomach is a sign that you might have an ulcer.
- Middle: A tightening or knotting sensation in your intestines could indicate constipation.
2. Does it hurt after eating?
- If you’re experiencing pain in the upper right part of your abdomen that hurts worse after a large, fatty meal, that’s indicative of gallstones. You should see a doctor to address this.
- Anywhere else in your stomach is likely indigestion and you should try an antacid.
3. Does it feel better after you poop?
- If you experience relief after you poop, you’re probably experiencing constipation or IBS.
Below is an image that maps out the different areas of your abdominal and what pain in each area could indicate.
