When to Go to the ER for Abdominal Pain

Abdominal Pain

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Jul 5, 2024

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Although abdominal pain can be a common ailment, sometimes it may signal a more serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding when to go to the Emergency Room (ER) for abdominal pain can not only help you find relief, but can potentially save lives. 

Here are key symptoms signaling when to go to the ER for abdominal pain:

  • Severe pain that comes on suddenly and intensely
  • Pain accompanied by fever, vomiting, or chills
  • Abdominal pain following a recent injury or trauma
  • Persistent pain lasting more than a few hours
  • Pain associated with chest, neck, or shoulder pain
  • Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination or excessive thirst
  • Bloody stools or vomit
  • Swelling or severe tenderness in the abdomen
  • Difficulty breathing or dizziness

We will explore the causes of abdominal pain, the symptoms to watch for, and the appropriate times to seek emergency care. The better you understand these factors the more informed decisions you can make about your health and well-being.

How do I know if abdominal pain is serious?

Determining the seriousness of abdominal pain can be challenging, but there are clear indicators that require urgent medical attention. If you experience any of the following, it is essential to go to the ER immediately:

1. Severe pain that comes on suddenly and intensely

Sudden, intense abdominal pain can be a sign of a serious condition such as appendicitis, a perforated ulcer, or an abdominal aortic aneurysm (a bulge or swelling in the largest artery in your body, known as the aorta). 

If not properly treated, appendicitis, which is the inflammation of the appendix, can result in a ruptured appendix and cause peritonitis, a serious infection of the abdominal cavity. A perforated ulcer can lead to internal bleeding and infection in the abdominal cavity, known as sepsis. And an abdominal aortic aneurysm can rupture, causing massive internal bleeding and potentially death. 

If you experience severe lower abdominal pain, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention immediately.

2. Fever and pain in the abdomen, vomiting, or chills

When abdominal pain (particularly left-side abdominal pain) is paired with a high fever, vomiting, or chills, it could indicate an infection or inflammation inside the body. Conditions like gastroenteritis, a kidney infection, or an abscess may require prompt medical intervention.

A fever is a sign of your body’s immune system fighting an infection. When paired with other symptoms, it can indicate a more severe underlying condition that requires treatment. If you experience these symptoms with abdominal pain, it is crucial to go to the ER for further evaluation and treatment.

3. Abdominal pain following a recent injury or trauma

Pain that occurs after you have experienced a blow to the abdomen, a fall, or any other physical trauma can signal internal injury, such as a ruptured spleen or liver. Injuries to these organs can cause internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is important to seek emergency care to rule out any serious damage if you experience abdominal pain after an accident. 

4. Persistent pain lasting more than a few hours

Any abdominal pain that persists for more than a few hours and does not subside could signify a serious underlying condition like pancreatitis or an intestinal blockage. Prolonged pain can also be indicative of appendicitis, which requires immediate surgical intervention to prevent the appendix from rupturing. 

Additionally, persistent pain could be a symptom of gastrointestinal conditions such as Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis. These conditions often require diagnosis through imaging studies, laboratory tests, and specific medical treatments. It is crucial to avoid overlooking ongoing pain, as timely medical evaluation can prevent complications and lead to appropriate management of the condition.

5. Pain associated with chest, neck, or shoulder pain

Abdominal pain that radiates to the chest, neck, or shoulders can be a symptom of gallstones, pancreatitis, or even a heart attack.

Gallstones often cause sharp pain that begins in the upper abdomen and can travel to the back or shoulders. In the case of pancreatitis, the pain typically starts in the upper abdomen and may extend to the back and shoulders, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Moreover, a heart attack can sometimes manifest as upper abdominal pain rather than the more classic chest pain, and this pain may spread to the shoulders, neck, or arms.

Because these conditions can be life-threatening, it’s essential to visit the ER for a full assessment if you are experiencing chest and abdominal pain.

6. Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination or excessive thirst

Dehydration caused by severe vomiting, diarrhea, or other underlying conditions can lead to abdominal pain. Without adequate fluid balance, the body struggles to function correctly, affecting several organs and potentially causing pain and cramping. If you notice signs of dehydration along with abdominal pain, it may be necessary to receive fluids and treatment in an ER environment.

7. Bloody stools or vomit

Throwing up blood or finding blood in your stool can be alarming and may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or gastrointestinal cancer. Immediate medical evaluation is essential to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

8. Swelling or severe tenderness in the abdomen

Abdominal swelling or severe tenderness to touch can be symptoms of conditions like appendicitis, bowel obstruction, or peritonitis. This swelling or tenderness often causes abdominal pain due to inflammation, increased pressure, or infection within the affected organs or tissues. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, as most of these conditions will require urgent surgical intervention.

9. Difficulty breathing or dizziness

Experiencing difficulty breathing or dizziness along with abdominal pain may indicate a hernia, severe infection, or even an aneurysm. Given the potential severity of these issues, prompt medical attention is needed to safeguard your health. Learn more about what to do when you have trouble breathing.

When NOT to go to the ER for abdominal pain

While bad pain in the abdomen of any kind can be distressing, there are instances where a visit to the ER may not be necessary. However, you should never hesitate to seek medical attention if you are concerned about your symptoms or unsure if it is an emergency.

Here are some main points to consider before going to an ER:

  • Are you experiencing minor gastrointestinal discomfort? Issues such as gas or mild constipation can often be managed at home with over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle adjustments.
  • Do you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? IBS can cause chronic abdominal discomfort but typically doesn’t require emergency intervention.
  • Could you have indigestion? Abdominal pain following a heavy meal or a meal with spicy foods might simply be a sign of indigestion, which can be alleviated by drinking water, avoiding rich foods, and engaging in light exercise.
  • Could you be experiencing menstrual cramps? Though painful, menstrual cramps usually don’t require emergency care unless accompanied by alarming symptoms like fainting or unusually heavy bleeding.
  • Do you have a stomach virus? Temporary episodes of vomiting and diarrhea caused by stomach viruses typically resolve within a few days with rest, hydration, and dietary adjustments, such as consuming clear broths and avoiding dairy.

For non-emergency situations, visiting a freestanding ER can often provide sufficient care and guidance without the long waits and higher costs associated with hospital-based ERs. Even if you’re not in an emergency situation, a healthcare professional should still evaluate persistent or recurring pain to rule out serious underlying conditions.

Visit Complete Care for prompt abdominal pain treatment

When considering whether to go to the ER for abdominal pain, it is crucial to recognize severe symptoms that necessitate immediate medical attention, so that you can make the best decision for your health and well-being.

If you are experiencing abdominal pain, visit your nearest Complete Care location, especially if it is worsening. Whether you’re visiting us in Texas (Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas/Fort Worth, East Texas, Lubbock, and San Antonio) or Colorado Springs, our team is standing by, ready to diagnose and treat your abdominal pain.

We understand that abdominal pain can be a worrisome and uncomfortable experience, but our experienced team of medical professionals is here to provide prompt, complete care for you.

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