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Abdominal Pain Specialist

Associated Physicians Group, PLC

Internal Medicine & Primary Care Practice located in Berkley, MI

Abdominal pain is a common problem that can be brought on by trauma, a stomach illness, or an underlying problem like heartburn. At Associated Physicians Group PLC, board-certified internal medicine specialist Neelum Gupta, MD, and board-certified family medicine physician Camelia Salanta, MD, have years of experience treating acute and chronic abdominal pain. To make an appointment at the practice in Berkley, Michigan, call the office today or schedule online.

Abdominal Pain Q & A

What is abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain is any cramping, aching, or general discomfort that affects the area of your body between your chest and pelvis. Sometimes, it’s sharp and stabbing; other times, it’s a dull ache that comes and goes.

Most cases of abdominal pain respond to at-home treatments like rest, over-the-counter medication, and eating a bland diet. But if your symptoms last for more than a few days or get worse, contact Associated Physicians Group PLC right away.

What causes abdominal pain?

Common causes of abdominal pain include:

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Appendicitis
  • Hernia
  • Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
  • Acid reflux (heartburn)
  • Vomiting
  • Stress
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Kidney rupture

Abdominal pain can also be brought on by gallbladder stones and kidney stones.

When should I visit the doctor about abdominal pain?

It’s important to see a doctor about abdominal pain if your symptoms are so severe you’re unable to get comfortable. You should also make an appointment at Associated Physicians Group PLC if your pain comes with bloody stools, difficulty breathing, and/or a high fever.

How is abdominal pain diagnosed?

To diagnose abdominal pain, your Associated Physicians Group PLC provider reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms. They want to know when your symptoms started and how severe they are. Next, your provider completes an exam. They gently press on your abdomen to check for areas of tenderness and swelling.

If that doesn’t provide the doctor with enough information about your condition, they will order diagnostic imaging like an ultrasound, X-rays, or an MRI. These procedures use advanced technologies to capture detailed photographs of the organs and soft tissues inside your body.

Your provider might also order lab tests, including bloodwork, urinalysis, and a stool sample.

How is abdominal pain treated?

How your abdominal pain is treated depends on what’s causing it and how severe your symptoms are.

Usually, Associated Physicians Group PLC recommends conservative treatments like changing your diet and taking prescription medicine. If your symptoms are caused by an underlying problem like a gallbladder stone or a burst appendix, surgery will be necessary.

The ultimate goal of treatment is to ease your discomfort and improve your quality of life.

To receive treatment for abdominal pain, make an appointment today at Associated Physicians Group PLC by calling the office or scheduling online.