Abdominal Discomfort

The potential causes of abdominal discomfort can range from minor to major ones. This article will give you brief information on abdominal discomfort: symptoms, causes and treatment methods. Read on...

Abdominal pain and discomfort is one of the most common conditions experienced by people all over the world. The discomfort can be caused due to cramping and pain that arises due to diseases and disorders related to the stomach, liver, kidneys, and other organs located in the body. As mentioned above, abdominal discomfort can be a symptom of any minor as well as a severe disorder. Let us have a look at the causes of abdominal discomfort in detail.

Abdominal Discomfort Causes

Constipation and diarrhea are the most common causes of abdominal pain and discomfort experienced by majority of people all over the world. Apart from these, the following are the other significant causes of discomfort in abdomen:

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis or stomach flu is a disorder of the stomach and the intestines caused due to parasites and bacteria (Salmonella enteritidis). This bacteria enters the human body through the medium of contaminated food and water. Children, teenagers and older people are more prone to this disease. Abdominal pain, nausea, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, etc. are the symptoms of gastroenteritis.

Pregnancy

Mild abdominal discomfort during early pregnancy is quite a normal and common condition experienced by most women. As the uterus increases in size, it can lead to abdominal discomfort. On the other hand, it can also be caused due to bloating and constipation which is common during pregnancy. However, constant severe abdominal pain observed along with other symptoms like vaginal discharge, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, unconsciousness, etc., is considered as a sign of other severe complications of pregnancy. Read more on abdominal pain during pregnancy.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or acid reflux disease, is the most prominent cause of abdominal discomfort after eating. This condition can be caused due to several reasons, the most prominent being improper diet and eating habits. Having larger and spicy meals, specially at night, leads to acid reflux. On the other hand, smoking, alcoholism, obesity also make a person prone to this condition.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a life long disorder of the stomach with an unknown cause. Symptoms of this condition include recurring pain and discomfort in lower abdomen, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. This is a chronic but non life threatening condition which is believed to be triggered due to stress and improper eating habits. Unfortunately it is found that irritable bowel syndrome is often mis-diagnosed as some other disease of the stomach.

Apart from these, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, kidney stone, gallstones, ectopic pregnancy, etc. are the other major causes of abdominal discomfort in left side or the right side. On the other hand, appendicitis is the only significant cause of abdominal discomfort in right side. Read more on abdominal pain causes.

Abdominal Discomfort Treatment

If a person experiences abdominal pain and discomfort frequently, it is essential to consult the doctor as early as possible. The doctor will advise a physical examination, X- ray or an MRI for the diagnosis of the disease. In case of gastroenteritis, it is essential to treat dehydration as a priority before commencing the treatment. Drinking lots of water, electrolyte fluids or intravenous (IV) fluids may be required. Secondly, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria in the body. Other medications may also be prescribed to treat nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Abdominal pain during pregnancy needs no medical treatment. Taking complete rest in the proper posture, eating a healthy diet, etc. helps in overcoming the pain. Acid reflux disease can be treated with the help of medications, however, it is essential to make changes in lifestyle if one wishes to get rid of this condition permanently. In order to treat irritable bowel syndrome, it is essential to treat all the symptoms of it individually. There are medications available to treat constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. However, one should remember that irritable bowel cannot be permanently cured, one needs to make changes in the lifestyle to reduce the severity and frequency of the disease.

This was brief information on the causes and treatment methods of abdominal discomfort. On a concluding note one should remember that all of the above mentioned diseases can be treated effectively if timely treatment is undertaken. Take care!