Abdominal Pain in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is abdominal pain?
Patients commonly have trouble finding the words to explain abdominal pain. It is sometimes described as pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the upper abdomen, upper stomach pain, generalized pain in the stomach, etc. Abdominal pain can present as any manner of discomfort in the area between the chest and the pelvis. It may be vague and difficult to define. Oftentimes, abdominal pain can be a small issue but it is essential to take note of your body and any messages that it is trying to send to you. There may be several possible conditions or reasons as to why you may be experiencing stomach pain. If you suffer from consistent off-and-on stomach concerns, it might be time to visit a specialist who provides treatment for abdominal pain in New Orleans, LA. You can locate a gastroenterology specialist near you by contacting Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.
What are the causes of abdominal pain?
Stomach or abdominal pain can be caused by quite a few less serious concerns. These typically are:
- Gas
- A potential stomach virus: This could be a stomach flu or other virus.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Pain often presents in the lower abdomen but can occur in any part of the abdomen. Pain may worsen soon after eating.
- Indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Food poisoning: A foodborne illness due to toxins in food from parasites, bacteria. or viruses. Symptoms include abdominal cramps.
- Difficulty passing hard stool
- Food allergies (such as lactose or gluten intolerance). Common food allergies include nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, and eggs.
Other potentially more serious conditions that also cause abdominal pain are:
- Cancer of the stomach: Symptoms can include pain and unusual “fullness” in one's upper abdomen
- Cholecystitis: Swelling of the gallbladder that presents as severe discomfort in the upper right or center of the abdomen.
- Crohn’s disease: An inflammatory disease of the intestines that presents with frequent diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis): Symptoms present with extreme pain in one's back and side from the lower abdomen to the groin.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation in the appendix. This may feel like a dull pain in the abdomen that transfers to the lower right abdomen and grows sharper.
- Ulcerative colitis: IBS which can result in abdominal and rectal cramping and pain.
- Ulcers: Sores in the lining of the stomach that can result in pain in the abdomen.
- Pancreatitis: Swelling of the pancreas. Pain is felt from the upper abdomen, radiating to the back.
- Decreased supply of blood to the intestines (intestinal ischemia): This may be the result of a blocked blood vessel and may affect intestinal health.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This occurs when stomach acid regurgitates backward into the esophagus. Symptoms can include frequent heartburn.
- Diverticulitis: Infection/inflammation of the colon. This might progress to bowel blockage and abdominal swelling.
- Bowel blockage or obstruction: Prevention of the passage of digested material through the bowel.
- Colon cancer: Symptoms can include extreme and persistent abdominal pain and/or change in bowel habits.
What is the cause of lower abdominal pain?
In some cases, abdominal pain may be isolated to the lower portion of the abdomen. Some of the most common sources of lower abdominal pain include:
- Indigestion: Pain resulting from indigestion in one's lower abdomen is rare and a result of a buildup of acid after eating.
- Diverticulitis: Swelling or infection of the intestinal wall.
- Gas: Presents as the sensation of pressure in your abdomen and might include flatulence and burping.
- Constipation: Difficulty passing and/or the inability to pass stool.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Common disorder affecting the colon.
- Flu (stomach flu): Infection of the intestines. Can present with fever, cramping, or nausea.
- IBD (Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease): The term for any chronic swelling in the digestive tract.
- Bowel blockage: The prevention of digested waste from making its way through the intestine.
- Appendicitis: Swelling of one's appendix. This might resemble a dull pain in the abdomen that moves to the lower right abdomen and grows sharper/intensifies.
- Lactose intolerance: The inability to fully digest lactose found in dairy.
- Hernia: When a part of the body or organ pushes into the wall of the abdomen.
- Celiac disease (celiac sprue): Triggered response of the body to gluten, found in rye, wheat, and barley.
When should I go to the hospital for abdominal pain?
If you are having extreme persistent abdominal pain along with any of the below-listed issues, emergency assistance might be necessary. Abdominal pain should be evaluated by an emergency provider immediately if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Pain that travels from the stomach to your back
- Stomach is unusually tender to the touch
- A fever associated with your abdominal pain
- Bloody urine or bloody stool
- A difficult time breathing or pain in your chest
- Inability to eat without vomiting
- Vomiting blood
- Unusual heartbeat
The best rule of thumb is to not take any risks. If the pain in your stomach is frequent but perhaps not extreme, consulting with your nearest gastrointestinal specialist might still be advisable. Our skilled specialists routinely provide care for patients with abdominal pain in New Orleans, LA and would love to help you with your GI needs. Blood in the stool should always be addressed and should be assessed by a medical provider. If you have blood in your stool, we implore you to call Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates today.
Treatment for abdominal pain
Because of the high number of sources of abdominal pain, the most reliable and efficient method for treatment is to get the professional opinion of a gastrointestinal specialist. The physician-led team of gastroenterologists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates strives to provide the highest quality, patient-focused care. As leaders in gastrointestinal health, our providers are happy to conduct an array of diagnostic tests and administer treatment for a wide variety of factors that cause abdominal pain. To connect with a digestive health specialist who offers treatment for abdominal pain in New Orleans, LA, please call a location near you at your earliest convenience to request a consultation.
Reviews
Dr Carriere was very transparent with all information. I felt comfortable the whole time as I was in great care.
I was referred to Dr. Brenner from my gynecologist, Dr. Champlin, due to severe abdominal pain. Dr. Brenner sent me to the ER and even followed up the next day to see how I was doing. I will be seeing him again for further testing. Dr. Brenner truly shows he cares about his patient’s well-being. Thank you!!!
ANSWERED ALL QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS WAS SEEN IN A TIMELY MANNER ,VERY KIND
This second visit was extremely successful. Dr. Awtrey reviewed the results of my colonoscopy with accuracy. Additionally, he addressed my chronic stomach pain and prescribed medication for me to take as needed. Dr. Awtrey exemplified a true interest in my wellness!
Very good doctor, reassuring, knowledgeable and personable.
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