Chronic abdominal pain is pain in the abdomen that lasts for at least three months or longer. It can be caused by various medical conditions, such as digestive disorders, infections, inflammation, or structural abnormalities.
Chronic abdominal pain can be a challenging condition to diagnose and manage, as there are many possible underlying causes. Here are some possible causes and treatments of chronic abdominal pain:
Causes
Gastrointestinal disorders
Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause chronic abdominal pain.
Chronic pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can cause recurrent episodes of abdominal pain.
Peptic ulcers
Sores in the stomach lining or small intestine can cause chronic abdominal pain.
Gallbladder disease
Gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder can cause chronic pain in the upper right abdomen.
Endometriosis
A condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside the uterus, leading to chronic pelvic pain and abdominal pain.
Kidney stones
Hard deposits that form in the kidneys can cause severe pain in the lower abdomen and back.
Treatments
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate mild to moderate chronic abdominal pain. Prescription medications, such as antispasmodics or proton pump inhibitors, may be used to manage specific underlying conditions.
Dietary changes
Eliminating or reducing certain foods, such as fatty or spicy foods, can help alleviate abdominal pain associated with digestive disorders.
Stress management
Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or cognitive-behavioural therapy may be helpful in managing abdominal pain associated with stress.
Surgery
In cases where underlying conditions such as gallstones, hernias, or endometriosis are causing chronic abdominal pain, surgery may be necessary.
Novel therapies
Therapies such as medicinal cannabis, ketamine therapy, etc. have shown to help control the pain caused by chronic abdominal pain.
Alternative therapies
Acupuncture, massage therapy, or herbal remedies may provide some relief for chronic abdominal pain, although the evidence for their effectiveness is limited.
How can Healand help with chronic abdominal pain?
It is important to seek medical attention if chronic abdominal pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or blood in the stool.
You may need diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies, or endoscopic procedures, to determine the underlying cause of your pain and develop a personalised treatment plan.
At Healand Clinic, we offer a range of therapies that can help with chronic abdominal pain. Please book a consultation to discuss this further with us.
