Abdominal Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Abdominal Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist

Hello： General pain points can often be clearly located, and most of them are related to issues on the abdominal wall, such as muscle problems, subcutaneous lipomas, or skin issues. <br>If the problem is within the abdomen, it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact pain location.

Regarding pain during extraction?

Hello, doctor.
I previously consulted a physician, but later I noticed a sunken area under my left rib cage, near the center.
When I exert pressure on my abdomen, there is a specific point that hurts when pressed, and sometimes I experience a sharp pain.
Should I continue to see a gastroenterologist? Is it necessary to undergo an endoscopy? Additionally, I read online that a hard lump in the abdomen could indicate stomach cancer.
I would like to know if a hard feeling in my abdomen when I exert pressure means there is a lump.
Does a lump feel as hard as a stone when pressed? Please help me with these questions.
Thank you.

Xunwen B, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/19

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: General pain points can often be clearly located, and most of them are related to issues on the abdominal wall, such as muscle problems, subcutaneous lipomas, or skin issues.
If the problem is within the abdomen, it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact pain location.
The lump may not feel as hard as a stone, but it will be noticeably firmer than the surrounding tissue.
If there is pain, it is still advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation by a physician.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/06/19

More Info

When it comes to understanding abdominal pain, particularly in the context of when to see a gastroenterologist, it is essential to consider various factors that could contribute to the discomfort. Your symptoms, including localized pain under the left rib cage that worsens with pressure and occasional sharp pains, warrant further investigation, especially if they persist or worsen over time.

Abdominal pain can arise from a multitude of causes, ranging from benign conditions to more serious underlying issues. Given your description, it is advisable to continue consulting with a gastroenterologist. They specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas.
In your case, the pain you experience when pressing on the area could indicate several possibilities. It might be related to gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even issues related to the spleen or pancreas, given the location of your pain. Additionally, conditions like costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs, could also be a factor, particularly if the pain is exacerbated by movement or pressure.

Regarding your concern about a "hard lump" in your abdomen, it is important to clarify what constitutes a hard mass. A hard lump typically feels firm or rigid when palpated, and it may feel like a stone or a solid object. However, not all hard areas in the abdomen are indicative of cancer. For instance, they could be benign masses, such as lipomas (fatty tumors), or even normal anatomical structures that may feel more prominent due to muscle tension or inflammation.

If you suspect that you have a hard mass, it is crucial to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional. A gastroenterologist can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess the area more thoroughly. These imaging modalities can help differentiate between benign and malignant masses and provide a clearer picture of what might be causing your symptoms.

As for the necessity of an endoscopy (gastroscopy), this procedure is typically indicated if there are concerns about the upper gastrointestinal tract, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss. If your symptoms include these factors, then an endoscopy may be warranted. However, if your primary symptom is localized pain without other alarming features, your gastroenterologist may choose to monitor your condition or pursue other diagnostic avenues first.

In summary, it is advisable to continue seeking care from a gastroenterologist, especially given your ongoing symptoms. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine the appropriate diagnostic tests needed to identify the underlying cause of your abdominal pain. Early intervention is key in managing gastrointestinal issues effectively, so do not hesitate to reach out for further medical advice.

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