Emerald Medical Clinic

Stomach Pain or Abdominal Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Stomach pain, also known as abdominal pain, is one of the most common complaints people experience. It can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, and may occur in the upper, lower, or entire abdominal region. While many cases of stomach pain are temporary and related to minor digestive issues, other cases may indicate underlying health problems that require medical attention.
At Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic in Dubai Marina – JBR, we offer comprehensive care for individuals suffering from abdominal pain. Our GP physision and internal medicine specialists are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatments to identify the cause of your pain and provide the appropriate care.

Common Causes of Stomach Pain (Abdominal Pain)

Abdominal pain can arise from a variety of conditions, ranging from minor indigestion to more serious conditions. Some of the most common causes of stomach pain include:
  1. Digestive Issues:
    • Indigestion (Dyspepsia): A feeling of fullness, bloating, or discomfort in the upper abdomen after eating.
    • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infections, alcohol use, or excessive use of pain relievers (NSAIDs).
    • Acid Reflux (GERD): A condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing burning pain (heartburn).
    • Constipation: Difficulty passing stools, which can cause bloating and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
  2. Infections:
    • Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis): A viral or bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramping.
    • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection: A bacterial infection that can cause ulcers and stomach discomfort.
  3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
    A chronic condition affecting the large intestine, leading to symptoms like bloating, cramping, diarrhea, or constipation.
  4. Abdominal Muscle Strain:
    Overuse or injury to the muscles in the abdominal area can cause localized pain, especially during movement.
  5. Gallstones:
    Solid particles that form in the gallbladder and can block bile flow, leading to intense pain in the upper abdomen, particularly after eating fatty foods.
  6. Appendicitis:
    An inflammation of the appendix that causes sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. It often requires surgical removal of the appendix.
  7. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) or Kidney Stones:
    Infections or stones in the urinary system can cause discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen, especially during urination.
  8. Ovarian Cysts (Women):
    Fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries and can cause sharp or dull abdominal pain, often on one side.
  9. Food Intolerance or Allergy:
    Certain foods may cause bloating, pain, or discomfort due to an intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance) or an allergy.
  10. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD):
    Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to persistent abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea.
  11. Hernia:
    A condition in which part of the intestine bulges through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall, causing pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

While most abdominal pain resolves on its own, there are times when it requires immediate medical attention. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:
  • Severe, sudden abdominal pain
  • Pain that worsens over time
  • Pain that spreads to your back, shoulder, or chest
  • Persistent nausea, vomiting, or fever
  • Blood in your stool or vomit
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Abdominal bloating with tenderness
At Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic, our gastroenterologists and internal medicine specialists will evaluate your symptoms, perform the necessary tests, and help determine the underlying cause of your abdominal pain.

Diagnosis of Stomach Pain (Abdominal Pain)

Our specialists use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and advanced diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your pain. Some of the common diagnostic tools include:
  • Blood Tests: To detect infections, inflammation, or other markers of disease.
  • Ultrasound: To check for conditions like gallstones, appendicitis, or ovarian cysts.
  • Endoscopy: A procedure in which a small camera is used to view the stomach and intestines for conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or IBD.
  • CT Scan: A more detailed imaging test that can identify issues like appendicitis, hernia, or infections.
  • X-rays: To detect conditions such as intestinal obstruction or perforation.

Treatment Options for Stomach Pain

Once the cause of your abdominal pain is diagnosed, our doctors will develop a personalized treatment plan. Some common treatments for stomach pain include:
  1. Medications:
  2. Antacids or Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): For conditions like acid reflux or gastritis.
  3. Antibiotics: If the pain is caused by bacterial infections, such as H. pylori or a stomach flu.
  4. Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for mild pain. Stronger medications may be prescribed if needed.
  5. Laxatives: To relieve constipation and ease abdominal discomfort.
  6. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes:
  7. Dietary Adjustments: Avoiding trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or acidic foods) can help relieve symptoms of gastritis, GERD, and IBS.
  8. Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that can help restore a healthy balance in the digestive system, particularly for IBS or after an infection.
  9. Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake, especially if you have diarrhea or vomiting.
  10. Surgical Treatment:
    In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat conditions like appendicitis, gallstones, hernia, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our clinic is equipped with experienced surgeons who provide expert care and minimally invasive procedures.
  11. Physical Therapy:
    If your abdominal pain is related to muscle strain or chronic conditions like IBS, physical therapy and relaxation techniques may be beneficial in managing pain.

Why Choose Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic?

At Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for individuals with abdominal pain. Our gastroenterologists and internal medicine specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions. With advanced diagnostic tools, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate care, we aim to relieve your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

Contact Us Today

If you’re experiencing stomach pain or abdominal discomfort, don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen. Schedule a consultation with our specialists at Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic in Dubai Marina – JBR for a thorough evaluation and effective treatment.
Call or WhatsApp Us: +971 58 521 8214
Email Us: info@emeraldavenuemc.com
Visit Us: emeraldavenuemc.com
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