Abdominal pain is an issue for almost everyone at one point or another. It can range from upper to lower, mild to severe, and can be 
difficult to pinpoint the cause behind it. Your abdomen makes up a large area of your body and contains many different organs. Therefore, the root of your abdominal pain could be any number of things, most of which can be easily identified and treated by the Las Vegas and Henderson gastroenterology team at Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada. Below, our doctors have listed a few of the ways abdominal pain can present itself, and how to know if it's an emergency.
What are some causes of abdominal pain?
The good news is that most causes of abdominal pain aren't serious. One of the most common reasons is GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is produced by the contents of the stomach being pushed back into the esophagus. The symptoms include heartburn, sore throat, and an acidic taste in your mouth. A recurrent stomachache that is temporarily relieved by eating could indicate an ulcer somewhere in the stomach or upper intestinal area. Irritable bowel syndrome can also indicate a number of problems within the digestive tract, including abdominal pain. Your Las Vegas and Henderson gastroenterologists can examine and diagnose these disorders.
When is abdominal pain considered an emergency?
There are certain symptoms associated with abdominal pain that could indicate an emergency. These include:
- Sharp or severe pain that comes on suddenly
- Pain that is higher in the chest, neck, or shoulder areas and includes shortness of breath
- Vomiting blood
- A distended (bloated) abdomen that is tender to the touch
- The whites of the eyes or skin turning yellow
All of these symptoms should be evaluated at your local emergency room immediately. Follow-up with your Las Vegas and Henderson gastroenterologist is essential.
If you've been dealing with abdominal pain for longer than a few days, contact the Comprehensive Digestive Institute of Nevada in Las Vegas to make an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists today! For our Las Vegas office, call (702) 483-4483. To reach the Henderson office, call 702-483-4483.