Lower abdominal pain is a common issue that many people experience. While the discomfort may be temporary and harmless, it can sometimes signal a more serious health problem. Let’s explore the potential causes of lower abdominal pain and what steps you should take if you encounter it.

Common causes of lower abdominal pain

Obstacles

Digestive issues are among the most frequent causes of lower abdominal pain that are generally not serious. Conditions such as constipation, excessive gas, or bloating can lead to sharp pain or cramping.

Constipation occurs when bowel movements slow down, leading to stool buildup that puts pressure on the intestinal walls, resulting in pain in the lower abdomen.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis, or inflammation of the appendix, is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. This occurs when the appendix becomes blocked or infected.

Symptoms often include pain in the lower right abdomen, mild fever, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, and difficulty passing gas. The primary treatment is surgical removal of the appendix to prevent serious infections.

Colitis

Colitis, or inflammation of the colon, can also cause pain in the lower abdomen. This usually happens due to bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.

Symptoms include cramping in the lower left abdomen, diarrhea (sometimes with mucus or blood), loss of appetite, weight loss, an urgent need to use the bathroom, fever, and fatigue. It is essential to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Kidney infection

A kidney infection can also lead to lower abdominal pain, typically occurring when a urinary tract infection spreads to the kidneys.

Pain is usually felt below the rib cage on the affected side and may radiate to the surrounding abdomen and groin. In addition, you may also experience fever accompanied by chills and colds.

Acute urinary retention

Acute urinary retention is a sudden inability to urinate, even though you feel the urge to do so. This condition is more common in older men and can be caused by urinary tract infections, blockages, or other factors.

Symptoms include severe pain in the lower abdomen due to a distended bladder, which may also appear swollen.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones can cause pain that begins in the lower back and spreads to the lower abdomen and groin. This pain is often sharp, throbbing, or cramping, and may come and go.

As the stones move toward the bladder, you might experience pain while urinating, and the urine may appear pink, red, or brown.

Given that many conditions can lead to lower abdominal pain, it is important to consult a doctor if you experience persistent or severe pain. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have further questions about abdominal pain or related issues, you can make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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