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Doctors say, is not to judge abdominal pain only by how much it hurts. A new, persistent or worsening pain, particularly when accompanied by warning signs, should not be dismissed as acidity or gas |Image used for representational purpose only
| Photo Credit: File Photo
Stomach pain is one of the most common symptoms people experience. It can range from mild discomfort caused by indigestion or gas, to severe pain caused by conditions such as appendicitis, gallstones, pancreatitis or intestinal obstruction.
Doctors say the site, severity, onset, duration and progression of the pain, along with other symptoms, can provide important clues about its cause. However, the intensity of pain alone does not always indicate how serious the underlying problem is.
“Some people with a serious condition may have only mild discomfort, while others with a less serious problem may experience severe pain,” says S. Jennie, professor, department of general Medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Chennai.
The location of abdominal pain can sometimes point to the organ involved. Burning or discomfort in the upper abdomen or lower chest may occur with acid-peptic disorders. Pain in the right upper abdomen, particularly after meals, can occur with gallbladder disease. Severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back may be seen in pancreatitis.