Abdominal pain, whether mild or severe, can make it difficult to perform your normal daily tasks. Abdominal pain can be caused by many different factors, such as illness or overeating. The experienced gastroenterologists at Island View Gastroenterology Associates in Ventura, and Oxnard, CA, diagnose and treat abdominal pain.
Common Causes of Abdominal Pain
Many different factors can contribute to or cause abdominal pain, such as stomach cramps or sharp pain. Some reasons for abdominal discomfort include:
- Overeating
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Stomach virus
- Menstrual cramps
- Food intolerance or allergies
- Food poisoning
- Muscle strain
- Stress
Abdominal pain can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as:
- Ulcers
- Diverticulitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Kidney stones
- Appendicitis
- Gallstones
- Hernia
When to See a Doctor
Some types of abdominal pain, such as a stomach ache due to overeating, typically can be treated at home with over-the-counter products. Abdominal pain caused by another health condition, such as IBS, is best treated by a doctor who can accurately diagnose and treat the underlying condition.
It is also time to see a doctor if the abdominal pain persists for an extended period or is accompanied by other symptoms. See a gastroenterologist at our office in Ventura, and Oxnard, CA, about your abdominal pain if any of these other symptoms or situations are also present:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Pressure or pain in the chest
- Pain that worsens when you move
- Chronic or severe abdominal pain
- inability to sleep due to the pain
- Abdominal swelling
Treatments for Abdominal Pain
The type of treatment needed for abdominal pain can depend on several factors, such as the cause, severity of the discomfort, and whether or not other symptoms are also present. Treatment options for abdominal pain could include rest, over-the-counter antacids, avoiding certain foods or beverages, eating smaller portions, prescription medications, or treatment of any underlying health conditions that are contributing to the pain.
If you are experiencing temporary or mild abdominal pain due to a stomach virus, overeating, lactose intolerance, or something similar, over-the-counter products can provide relief until the problem subsides. However, abdominal pain that is severe, chronic, accompanied by other symptoms, or caused by an underlying health condition should be treated by a doctor. For help with abdominal pain, call Island View Gastroenterology Associates in Ventura, CA, at (805) 641-6525 or at (805) 973-1227 for our Oxnard location.