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Abdominal Pain

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

What do I need to know about abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain may be felt anywhere between the bottom of your rib cage and your groin. Acute pain usually lasts less than 3 months. Chronic pain lasts longer than 3 months. Your pain may be sharp or dull. The pain may stay in the same place or move around. You may have the pain all the time, or it may come and go. Depending on the cause, you may also have nausea, vomiting, fever, or diarrhea.

Abdominal Organs

What causes abdominal pain?

The cause may not be found. The following are common causes:

How is the cause of abdominal pain diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will check your abdomen. He or she will ask where your pain is and when it started. Tell him or her if the pain wakes you or stops you from doing your daily activities. Describe anything that makes the pain better or worse. You may also need any of the following:

How is abdominal pain treated?

What can I do to manage or prevent abdominal pain?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.