Almost everyone experiences occasional abdominal pain, whether it’s from a passing stomach virus, stress, or simply eating too much. But what may seem like no big deal can sometimes indicate a deeper issue within your digestive system.
John Rivas, MD, offers expert gastrointestinal care at Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida. If you’re dealing with unexplained abdominal pain, Dr. Rivas and his team can provide clear answers and effective treatment plans.
With so many potential causes, how can you tell if your discomfort is just a minor inconvenience or if it’s time to see your gastroenterologist? Here, we guide you through the signs that suggest your abdominal pain needs professional attention.
You can usually trace minor stomach pain back to a clear source. For example, indigestion and trapped gas can cause bloating, pressure, and discomfort after overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming carbonated beverages.
Stomach cramps accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea often indicate viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu) or even mild food poisoning. These common causes of abdominal pain should disappear on their own once the cause resolves — whether you pass gas, have a bowel movement, or the illness runs its course.
However, certain symptoms indicate the need to consult with a specialist like Dr. Rivas. See our team if you’re experiencing any of the following:
If abdominal pain lasts for several days without relief, or if it starts out mild and steadily intensifies, it’s a sign that the issue isn’t resolving on its own. Pain that keeps coming back, even if it subsides temporarily, also warrants a closer look.
Never ignore severe stomach pain that makes it difficult to move, stand upright, or get comfortable. This type of acute, debilitating pain could indicate a serious medical emergency such as appendicitis or an obstruction.
It’s normal to occasionally experience a loose stool or feel a bit backed up. But if you’re noticing persistent changes in your bowel movements — constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two — it’s a different story, particularly if those changes are accompanied by abdominal pain.
Seeing blood, either bright red or dark and tarry (like coffee grounds), in your stool or vomit is always a serious symptom. This is a sign of internal bleeding within the digestive tract and requires urgent medical care.
Losing a significant amount of weight unexpectedly, without any changes to your diet or activity level is always a red flag. If you’re also dealing with stomach pain, it could indicate that your body isn’t absorbing nutrients from your food properly.
If you notice your skin or the whites of your eyes turning yellow, especially if abdominal pain is also present, it may point to an issue with your liver or bile duct, such as hepatitis.
While healthy habits like eating well and staying active do have a positive effect on your digestion, they can’t always fix a deeper medical issue. When discomfort lingers, intensifies, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, professional evaluation becomes essential.
This proactive step helps catch potential issues early before they escalate into more serious health challenges. A skilled gastroenterologist like Dr. Rivas can accurately pinpoint the root cause of your abdominal pain, whether that’s irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or a more serious condition.
A precise diagnosis means that you receive targeted, effective treatment tailored to your needs. Your care plan may include specific dietary changes, medication, and — if necessary — surgical intervention to address inflammation, bleeding, or growths.
Put an end to the anxious guessing game and find real answers at Rivas Digestive Center. Call us in Hollywood, Florida, to schedule your appointment, or conveniently book online.
