What tests are performed to detect the causes of abdominal pain?

In one of our latest articles here, distinguished consultant gastroenterologist, Dr Seamus Murphy, outlines the most common causes of abdominal pain and tells us how we can effectively prevent abdominal pain that is caused by indigestion.

What are the possible causes of abdominal pain?

There are many possible causes of abdominal pain. Essentially, any organ that is in the abdomen can cause pain, which could be the oesophagus, the liver, the stomach, the gallbladder, the kidneys, the spleen, the muscles themselves in the abdomen, the kidneys, and the pancreas.

The most common causes that I would see include the following:

• stomach ulcers
• acid reflux
• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease

Can different types of pain or locations indicate the exact cause of abdominal pain?

If pain is more on the right side of the abdomen, the cause is most likely to be coming from a malfunction of the gallbladder or liver.

Pain towards the upper middle part of the abdomen is often related to stomach issues and general stomach pain, or a stomach ulcer.

Is there any way to prevent abdominal pain caused by gas or indigestion?

Functional indigestion is one of the most common causes of abdominal pain. Treatment for this depends on lifestyle and diet modifications.

We will then look to identify indigestion triggers such as certain foods and anxiety and/or stress.

When should I see a doctor about abdominal pain?

If pain or any symptom lasts between four to six weeks, you should get checked out.

What tests are done to diagnose the causes of abdominal pain?

The tests are varied. We often start with blood tests, and liver and kidney function tests. After this, we can do a gastroscopy, a colonoscopy, or an ultrasound scan.

Sometimes, MRI or CT scans are also recommended.

You can book an appointment with Dr Seamus Murphy by heading on over to his Top Doctors profile today.