What Is Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain is a common experience, but it’s important not to ignore it. At Denmark Digestive Health, we specialize in diagnosing and treating discomfort in the abdominal area, which lies between the ribs and pelvis. This pain may be a symptom of various digestive issues, including:
- Digestive disturbances, like indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea
- Organ inflammation or infections, such as gastroenteritis, stomach flu, peptic ulcer disease, or chronic acid reflux
- More severe conditions, including bowel obstruction, diverticulitis, or Crohn's disease
Sometimes, abdominal pain might not be directly linked to the colon. It may be linked to complications in other organs. Abdominal pain often feels different from patient to patient, and its location can vary, depending on what underlying problem is causing your discomfort. The three most common types of pain that patients experience include:
- Localized pain: This type may be limited to just one area of the abdomen, which typically suggests an issue with a particular organ, such as the large intestine or appendix
- Cramp-like pain: Pain that comes and goes can be traced back to mild conditions, such as constipation, diarrhea, or bloating
- Colicky pain: This pain tends to feel more like a muscle spasm and generally occurs as a symptom of a more severe issue, like gallstones
To address abdominal discomfort and improve your quality of life, prompt medical attention is key. Our team, led by Dr. Vera Denmark, our board-certified gastroenterology physician, is dedicated to identifying and treating the root cause of your abdominal pain. Residents in the Weston, MA area can reach out to our office to book an appointment with our medical professionals.
How Is Abdominal Pain Treated?
To determine the cause of your abdominal pain, our medical team will conduct a comprehensive physical examination to identify any swelling or tenderness. We will ask for details about your pain and the location and conduct a series of diagnostic tests, which may include digital imaging technologies, like MRI scans, x-rays, and ultrasounds, to detect inflammation, tumors (whether cancerous or benign), and any ruptures. Additionally, a colonoscopy might be conducted to examine the colon for potential issues. Once all tests are complete, it may take several weeks for our office to receive and review the results. We will then discuss these findings with you and formulate a treatment plan to address your abdominal pain and its underlying cause.
The treatment strategy for your abdominal pain will be tailored to the root cause Dr. Denmark will identify. If issues like constipation are the source of discomfort, our team might recommend a specialized diet plan to regulate bowel movements. For conditions like Crohn's disease, which may not have a definitive cure, managing the condition may involve medications, customized diet plans, or potentially surgery to control symptoms effectively. In cases where colon cancer is diagnosed, immediate action is taken to outline the necessary treatment approach. Additionally, abdominal pain could originate from other organs, such as the spleen or gallbladder, and in some cases, surgical removal of these organs may be necessary to improve or maintain your health.
What Symptoms Are Associated with Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain is a common complaint among people of all ages that varies significantly in intensity and form from person to person. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms that may provide clues to its cause. Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with abdominal pain:
- Sharp or stabbing pain
- Dull, achy sensation
- Cramping
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Indigestion
- Gas or belching
- Loss of appetite
- Fever (in some cases)
- Pain that worsens with movement, eating, or after eating
- Pain that radiates to other areas, such as the back or chest
Denmark Digestive Health Reviews
Amazing Office - Dr. Denmark saw me right away. I had something that was not life-threatening, but nagging and annoying. Dr. Denmark knew immediately what the issue was. In one week I was feeling better. She listened and was very compassionate and I thank her enough for that. Lilly Is the office manager and she is wonderful. She is kind and is so helpful. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I highly recommend this provider.
Dr. Denmark and Lilly are amazing - This office is simply the best. I had this issue for about 2 yrs off and on. I reached out to Lilly and they were able to see me in 2 days. Talk about fantastic. Dr. Denmark had an idea of what was happening. After meeting with her and taking the medicine for a week I am almost back to myself. Dr. Denmark is compassionate, caring and simply a great health care provider. Lilly is the office manager and she is excellent. Both of these women truly care and I am so happy I reached out. Thank you for a great office experience and I recommend Dr. Denmark highly.
Finding the BEST! - Highest praise for Doctor Vera Denmark!When eager to switch gastroenterologists I was discouraged by my previous doctor's policy. I called Dr. Denmark' s office where her assistant, Lilly, helped accommodate my wish to choose my doctor. I am forever grateful. I'd check every box EXCELLENT and 5 stars for Dr. Denmark.
Our savior!!!! - We were taken in to exam room early but doctor was 30 minutes behind. She was absolutely “worth waiting for”!!! Likely she was providing excellent care to a needy patient and that’s why she sometimes runs late. She was very attentive, thorough, thoughtful and patient. She pondered our complex situation and made an assessment that was very helpful. Next steps will be coordination of procedures and providers. Our 90 minute visit was extremely educational and helpful. We are hopeful for the first time in 8 months; 3 hospitals and many providers were not as efficient as our beloved Dr. Denmark.
We were taken in to exam room early but doctor was 30 minutes behind. She was absolutely “worth waiting for”!!! Likely she was providing excellent care to a needy patient and that’s why she sometimes runs late. She was very attentive, thorough, thoughtful and patient. She pondered our complex situation and made an assessment that was very helpful. Next steps will be coordination of procedures and providers. Our 90 minute visit was extremely educational and helpful. We are hopeful for the first time in 8 months; 3 hospitals and many providers were not as efficient as our beloved Dr. Denmark.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
When should I see a doctor for abdominal pain?
Mild abdominal pain that resolves quickly is often not a cause for concern, but persistent, severe, or worsening pain should not be ignored. If you experience prolonged discomfort, pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, unintended weight loss, blood in your stool, or difficulty eating, it may indicate a more serious condition. Seeking medical attention at Denmark Digestive Health can help determine the underlying cause and prevent potential complications.
Can digestive issues cause pain in different parts of the abdomen?
Yes, the location of abdominal pain often provides clues about its cause. Pain in the upper abdomen may be related to acid reflux, ulcers, or gallbladder problems, while lower abdominal pain could be linked to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, or constipation. Cramping or intermittent pain is often associated with bloating or digestive disturbances, while sharp, localized pain may indicate an issue with a specific organ. A thorough evaluation can help pinpoint the source of discomfort.
What tests can help diagnose the cause of abdominal pain?
To diagnose abdominal pain, a doctor may conduct a physical exam and order imaging tests such as ultrasounds, X-rays, or MRIs to check for inflammation, blockages, or other abnormalities. In some cases, a colonoscopy may be recommended to assess the colon for conditions like polyps or Crohn’s disease. Additional lab work or stool tests may be performed to evaluate infections or digestive disorders. Our specialists at Denmark Digestive Health create personalized testing plans based on each patient’s symptoms and medical history.
Seek Comfort
Abdominal pain is often a frustrating side effect of any number of underlying medical problems. This kind of discomfort can prevent individuals of all ages from living peacefully. If abdominal discomfort is preventing you from living your best possible life, we encourage you to seek treatment immediately with Dr. Vera Denmark, a board-certified physician of gastroenterology, and our team of medical professionals. We are experts in diagnosing and treating chronic pain and its many causes. If you live in or near the Weston, MA area, call Denmark Digestive Health today to diagnose and treat your problems using the most advanced tools and techniques.