From Bloating to Appendicitis

Stomach pain can occur after a heavy meal, during a stressful day, or as part of a mild stomach bug. But when is abdominal discomfort just bloating, and when is it a sign of something more serious, like a medical emergency?

At Kyle ER & Hospital, we treat a wide range of abdominal conditions, from mild to life-threatening. This article will help you understand the common causes of abdominal pain, how to recognize red flags, and when you should head to the ER.

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can have many different sources, depending on the area and severity of the discomfort. Here are some of the most common causes:

Mild or Non-Urgent Causes

• Gas and Bloating: Often related to diet, swallowed air, or indigestion.
• Constipation: Can cause cramping or fullness.
• Stomach Viruses: Like norovirus or gastroenteritis, causing cramps, diarrhea, or vomiting.
• Heartburn/Acid Reflux: Burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen or chest.
• Menstrual Cramps: Lower abdominal pain associated with the menstrual cycle.

These conditions can typically be managed at home with hydration, over-the-counter medications, and rest.

Serious or Emergency Causes

• Appendicitis: Begins as dull pain near the navel, shifting to sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. May include nausea, fever, or loss of appetite.
• Gallstones: Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after eating fatty foods.
• Kidney Stones: Severe pain in the back or side, often radiating to the lower abdomen and groin.
• Diverticulitis: Inflammation of the colon, causing pain (often in the lower left abdomen), fever, and bowel changes.
• Bowel Obstruction: Cramping, bloating, vomiting, and inability to pass gas or stool.
• Pancreatitis: Upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, often accompanied by nausea or vomiting.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: A serious condition where a pregnancy grows outside the uterus, causing sharp abdominal pain and potential internal bleeding.

Warning Signs: When to Go to the ER

You should seek emergency care at Kyle ER & Hospital if you or a loved one experiences:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Pain that lasts more than a few hours or gets worse
• Abdominal pain with fever, vomiting, or swelling
• Pain after trauma (like a car accident or injury)
• Bloody stools or vomit
• Persistent nausea and inability to keep fluids down
• Pain during pregnancy
• Dizziness, fainting, or low blood pressure along with pain
• Difficulty Breathing or accompanying Chest Pain

Remember: Severe abdominal pain is never something to ignore. Even if you’re unsure of the cause, it’s better to be safe and get evaluated promptly.

What to Expect at Kyle ER & Hospital

When you arrive at Kyle ER & Hospital, our board-certified emergency physicians will quickly assess your symptoms and perform any necessary tests, such as:

• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis
• X-rays
• Ultrasound
• CT scans

We’re open 24/7 with no wait times, so you’ll be seen promptly and treated with compassionate, expert care.

Trust Your Gut, And Ours

Stomach pain might be something minor, or it could be your body’s way of signaling an emergency. If your abdominal pain feels different, lasts longer, or is more intense than usual, don’t wait it out. Let the team at Kyle ER & Hospital give you peace of mind and the care you deserve.