Abdominal pain is one of themamong the most common complaintsboth in children and adults. They are a very common symptom and can have many causes - from harmless to life-threatening. Here we explain what abdominal pain could mean what, depending on where the pain is located.
1. Abdominal pain in the upper right abdomen
The liver and gallbladder are located in the right upper abdomen, so the most common causes of discomfort in this abdominal area are usually related to these organs.
- If you suddenly,severe painradiating to the right shoulder and occurring after a large, high-fat meal are very likelyGallstonesthe evildoers.
- Severe pain or dull cramps that spread to the right shoulder or back and last for several hours may be due to aCholecystitisor oneGallbladder inflammationpoint out.
- A dull ache or a sharp pain that comes and goes usually indicates that you have aInflammation of the liver(Hepatitis) leiden.
2. Abdominal pain in the middle of the upper abdomen
In the middle upper abdomen are the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine and a large part of the pancreas.
- If you often have pain that radiates to your back and is made worse by eating, especially high-fat foods, it may be a sign of aPancreatitisbe.
- Severe pain and tenderness in the middle upper abdomen, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal swelling may indicate aepigastric herniaindicate.
- A burning sensation in the chest and symptoms such as cough, sore throat, a sour taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting and bloating usually presentheartburnorDyspepsiahin.
- If you suffer from heartburn that gets worse when you bend over or lie down, as well as complain of chest pain and belching, you probably have oneHiatushernie.
- Pain that gets worse between meals or in the middle of the night and can be relieved by eating can be a symptom ofDuodenal ulcersbe.
3. Abdominal pain in the upper left corner
Most of the stomach is located in the left upper abdomen, so discomfort in this area usually indicates problems with this organ.
- Severe, excruciating pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting can be a sign ofGastritis,onestomach inflammation,be.
- Burning pain, which is usually worse on an empty stomach, may occurstomach ulcersbe caused.
4. Abdominal pain on the left and right
The kidneys are located in the abdominal cavity to the left and right of the spine. Sometimes pain in these areas can also be caused by problems with the colon.
- Pain in the kidney area that radiates to your back and is accompanied by fever, chills, diarrhea and nausea may be a sign of aKidney infectionbe.
- Severe pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and occurs in waves indicatesKidney stonesthere. You may also experience nausea, vomiting, fever, persistent urge to urinate, and blood in your urine.
- Pain with or without bloating along with hard and dry stools that are difficult to pass are indications forconstipation.
5. Pain in the belly button region
All unpleasant feelings in this part of the abdomen are closely related to the problems in the small and large intestines.
- Abdominal pain and cramps accompanied by severe diarrhea, fatigue, fever and weight loss indicate ainflammatory intestinal diseasehin.
- Vomiting, diarrhea and pain that begins much more slowly are typical of oneSmall intestinal obstruction.
- A painful swelling near the navel that usually causes abdominal discomfort is calledUmbilical hernia or umbilical herniadesignated.
6. Abdominal pain in the middle left
Next to the left kidney is the descending colon, which can become infected or inflamed due to an unhealthy diet, aging, and some other common causes.
Constant and persistent pain as well as tenderness in the abdomen, fever, nausea and vomiting are the most typical symptomsDiverticulitis.The so-called diverticula – protrusions in the intestinal wall – usually form in the last, descending part of the large intestine.
7. Abdominal pain in the right lower abdomen
On the right side of the abdomen lies the appendix, a small organ that stores beneficial bacteria, promotes good digestion and is important for our immune system.
Sharp pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and fever are the most common symptoms of aAppendicitis(Appendicitis), which requires immediate medical attention.
8. Abdominal pain in the middle of the lower abdomen
The bladder and reproductive organs are located in this part of the abdomen.
- Abdominal cramps, a burning sensation when urinating and changes in the color of urine can be a signCystitispoint out.
- Sudden and severe pelvic pain that lasts for a few months is also a common symptom of problems with the reproductive organs.
9. Lower left abdominal pain
What is in the bottom left of your stomach? A large part of the large intestine is located here. So, if you have problems with this organ, you will most likely experience pain in the left lower abdomen. Abdominal pain that is accompanied by cramps, bloating, diarrhea or constipation can be symptoms of aIrritable bowel syndromebe.
Since the causes of abdominal pain can be varied, it is important to correctly identify the problem in order to treat it in the best possible way. For non-specific symptoms, imaging techniques such as sonography are usually used. With modern ultrasound diagnostics, most causes of abdominal pain in children and adults can be quickly clarified. Modern ultrasound devices not only offer fine images with high resolution for maximum examination accuracy. A mobile ultrasound device, such asvscan.rocks, also enables quick and accurate diagnosis on site. This is particularly important for acute and severe symptoms that require quick treatment.
The information contained in the article is for informational purposes only. Contact your doctor if you or your child have severe acute or long-lasting abdominal pain.