The abdomen is the region between the chest and groin area, which includes the stomach, intestines and other important organs. The University of Maryland Medical Center recognizes that abdominal pain is a common occurrence at any given point in life and is not necessarily a cause for medical concern. However, there are more serious conditions that abdominal pain may be a symptom of, requiring physician consultation. Immediate medical help is suggested if the pain is sudden and sharp with blood in the stool or if the abdomen is hard to the touch.
IBS and GI Infections
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a digestive condition that affects the lower intestinal tract. IBS involves a combination of abdominal pain and constipation. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that an intestinal infection is a possible cause of IBS. The pain of IBS is also associated with constipation and sudden bouts of diarrhea. Gastrointestinal infections are another source of digestive abdominal pain. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that a GI infection may be due to parasites or bacteria in the intestines, leading to frequent diarrhea and lower abdominal pain.
Intestinal Ischemia
According to the Mayo Clinic, intestinal ischemia is often a sudden result of a blood clot blocking the flow of blood from the intestines. The blocked blood flow prevents oxygenation to the small intestine and colon. Intestinal ischemia may cause severe and sudden abdominal pain and tenderness. Also common in this condition is abdominal cramping after eating and worsening pain when not treated. Due to the severity of this condition, emergency care is suggested to treat the symptoms.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections, or UTI, is an infection in the bladder, kidney or urethra and may cause lower abdominal pain. The American Academy of Family Physicians indicates that UTIs are often quite painful and may be a precursor to more severe medical conditions. The cause of UTIs is often bacteria in the bladder or urethra. An untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys, causing significant infection.
Ectopic Pregnancy
In women, a potential cause of lower abdominal pain is ectopic pregnancy. The Mayo Clinic indicates that an ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg is implanted in the the fallopian tube instead of the uterus. Lower abdominal pain and cramping on one side of the pelvis may occur in this condition. If the fallopian tube ruptures, a sudden, sharp pain may occur, and immediate medical attention is necessary.
