Medical Management of Abdominal Pain

We may call abdominal pain a "stomach ache," but pain in the abdomen can originate from several places in the body. Acute pain that began suddenly is managed differently than chronic pain that has persisted over time.

Acute Pain

• Stabilizing the patient comes first

  Doctors will first make sure vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure are stable and that the patient is in no immediate danger. Controlling any vomiting or providing pain relief will follow, as will determining a cause for the pain in as short a time as possible.

Chronic Pain

• Doctors begin by determining when the chronic pain began, what causes it to worsen or reappear, and what other symptoms accompany it.

Further Examination

• A medical history can reveal underlying conditions

  A medical history and a thorough physical examination help detect any underlying medical conditions and determine which tests, if any, are necessary.

Tests

• A variety of medical tests can provide vital information

  Possible tests include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or visual examination of the abdomen with a tiny laparoscope. Blood, urine and stool samples may be analyzed.

Medications

• Antacids are only one medication used to treat abdominal pain

  Medications used to relieve symptoms include antacids, intravenous narcotics for acute pain, antibiotics for suspected abdominal infections, or low-dose antidepressants for chronic pain.

Treatment and Care

• Patients should observe which foods cause discomfort

  Surgery or hospitalization for observation may be necessary. Patients treated with medication are instructed what to do if their pain reappears or worsens at home, and to avoid any aggravating activities or foods.