Abdominal pain can range from mild to severe and may be persistent or intermittent. It can be acute (short-lived) or chronic (lasting for weeks, months, or even years).

Pain is always abnormal, but it may not be a medical emergency.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Call your doctor immediately if you experience abdominal pain that is so severe that you:

• Cannot move without worsening the pain

  
  

• Cannot sit still or find a comfortable position

Seek urgent medical attention if your abdominal pain is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as:

• Nausea or vomiting

  
  

• Diarrhea

  
  

• Blood in stool

  
  

• Fever

  
  

• Vomiting blood

  
  

• Severe tenderness of the belly; or

  
  

• Swelling of the abdomen

Treatment for abdominal pain depends on its underlying cause. See your physician for proper evaluation and care.

Important Reminder: This information is intended only to provide general guidance. It does not provide definitive medical advice. It is very important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.

https://gi.org/patients/topics/abdominal-pain/