Abdominal Pain That Doesn't Go Away – What Could Be the Cause?
Abdominal pain, commonly referred to as stomach pain, occurs anywhere between the lower edge of the ribs and the pubic area. If the pain persists without relief, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a physical examination to identify the exact location of the discomfort. In cases of widespread or diffuse pain, further diagnostic tools such as clinical ultrasound or imaging tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause and begin appropriate treatment.
There are many possible causes of persistent abdominal pain. For women of childbearing age, conditions such as menstrual cramps, ovarian cyst torsion, fallopian tube inflammation, or ectopic pregnancy should be considered. Internal organ issues within the abdominal cavity often lead to pain in this region. For example, gastroenteritis caused by contaminated food—often described as "an upset stomach"—can result in continuous cramping. Chronic gastric conditions like peptic ulcers (which may improve after eating) and stomach cancer can also cause ongoing discomfort. Additionally, diseases affecting other abdominal organs, such as gallstones, intestinal worms, bowel obstruction, and colorectal cancer, may all contribute to long-lasting abdominal pain.
If the pain is localized in the lower abdomen, urinary tract infections or kidney stones might be responsible. It's also important to note that not all abdominal pain originates from the abdominal region itself. Certain chest-related conditions, such as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), can present as upper left abdominal pain.
Persistent abdominal pain serves as a warning sign from the body. Ignoring prolonged discomfort can lead to serious complications. If you experience ongoing pain, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly to diagnose the root cause and receive timely, targeted treatment.