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Symptoms of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can include discomfort anywhere from the upper chest to the pelvic area and can be caused by a variety of disorders, infections and illnesses. Consider this information from the Mayo Clinic, the American Medical Association and the National Library of Medicine about the symptoms of abdominal pain.

  1. Appetite Changes

    • Changes in appetite are a symptom that often accompanies abdominal pain, according to the American Medical Association. Abdominal pain caused by illnesses such as food poisoning or gastroenteritis can lead to nausea and vomiting, which can be severe, as well as a loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness and indigestion.

    Bleeding

    • Bleeding is a symptom of abdominal pain that can be a result of a serious medical condition, according to the Mayo Clinic. Vaginal bleeding may indicate a miscarriage or early labor in a pregnant woman, while blood in vomit or stool may be caused by an infection, inflammation or the rupture of an internal organ, which requires urgent treatment.

    Bowel Changes

    • Changes in bowel functions are a common symptom of abdominal pain, according to the National Library of Medicine. Symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea may occur before or at the same time of abdominal pains. An inability to have a bowel movement or dark, tarry stools could be a sign of a medical emergency.

    Cramps

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, abdominal pain can occur in varying levels of intensity, including strong pains often referred to as cramps. Women may experience cramps due to premenstrual syndrome, ectopic pregnancy or pelvic inflammatory disease, as well as from food-borne illnesses or stress.

    Gas

    • Gas may be accompanied by bloating and swelling, according to the National Library of Medicine, and babies with colic may have gas and a swollen stomach. Children and adults may pass gas frequently, which is a symptom of abdominal pain that may be related to food intolerances or eating foods that are high in fiber.

    Stiffness

    • Stiffness of abdomen muscles is another symptom of abdominal pain, according to the National Library of Medicine. Muscle strains and stress can be a cause of soreness and stiffness there, as can respiratory infections such as pneumonia or heart problems, including a heart attack.

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