In this guide
Stomach pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit a gastroenterologist. The cause can be simple acidity, but repeated or severe pain may need evaluation for ulcers, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, liver problems or intestinal disease.
Key Takeaways
- Acidity, GERD or gastritis
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Gallstones or bile duct stones
- Pancreatitis
- Constipation, infection or inflammatory bowel disease
Common causes of stomach pain
Pain location, timing, food relation, vomiting, stool changes and fever help guide evaluation.
- Acidity, GERD or gastritis
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Gallstones or bile duct stones
- Pancreatitis
- Constipation, infection or inflammatory bowel disease
- Liver disease or jaundice-related pain
Warning symptoms
Some symptoms should not be ignored because they may suggest bleeding, infection, obstruction or severe inflammation.
- Severe or worsening pain
- Fever, persistent vomiting or dehydration
- Black stool or vomiting blood
- Jaundice or dark urine
- Unexplained weight loss or anemia
Tests that may be needed
Depending on the symptoms, the doctor may advise blood tests, liver and pancreas tests, ultrasound, endoscopy, colonoscopy, CT or stool tests.
Treatment depends on the cause
Painkillers and home remedies can mask symptoms. Correct treatment depends on diagnosis, age, previous reports and warning signs.