Abdominal pain may be severe or mild, and can have serious or benign causes. If you have mild abdominal pain, you may be able to treat it at home with rest, extra fluids, over-the-counter medications and a bland diet. If you have severe, worsening or sudden pain, or if it persists more than a few days, see your doctor.
Indigestion
Medline Plus describes indigestion as an uncomfortable feeling in the abdomen, which may include heartburn, nausea, belching, bloating or feeling too full. It often occurs after you eat food that is spicy, greasy, fatty or high in fiber. Consuming a lot of caffeine or smoking can cause indigestion, as can overeating, drinking alcohol or eating too quickly. Eat more slowly, chew your food well and avoid foods that aggravate your stomach to reduce indigestion. If you do develop indigestion, try taking an over-the-counter antacid. If it does not help, see your doctor for further treatment and to rule out serious illness.
Infection
Sharp lower abdominal pains accompanied by diarrhea are often caused by gastrointestinal infections, says FamilyDoctor.org. These infections may be caused by a bacteria, a virus or a parasite. You may catch a viral infection, sometimes called a "stomach flu," from others who have been sick recently. Sometimes food is contaminated with bacteria or parasites, causing what is commonly known as "food poisoning." Besides stomach pain and diarrhea, gastrointestinal infections can cause vomiting, fever, loss of appetite or blood in the stool. Wash your hands frequently, keep your kitchen clean, avoid eating food that has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours and only eat your meat well-cooked to avoid infections. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, and if your abdominal pain is severe or you have blood in your diarrhea, see your doctor.
Problems with Organs
The abdomen contains several organs that may become infected or irritated, causing pain. Pain in the lower right quadrant of your abdomen, for example, may indicate appendicitis. Gallstones or gallbladder irritation can cause pain, as can pancreatitis. If you have a stomach ulcer, you may experience pain. Women may have pain or discomfort associated with pregnancy, menstruation or problems with the uterus or ovaries. Abdominal pain radiating to the back might indicate a kidney infection or kidney stones. Bladder infections may also cause abdominal pain. If your stomach is very tender or if you have bloody vomit or stools, seek immediate medical care.
