Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help

Abdominal issues?

Hello, for the past few days, I've been experiencing a slight pain in the abdominal area next to my left side of the navel.
It doesn't feel like typical stomach pain or sharp pain; it resembles more of a dull ache similar to back pain.
I visited a gastroenterologist yesterday, and the doctor said there was nothing serious.
He prescribed me quite a few stomach medications and advised me to return only if the pain worsens or if I develop a fever.
I just noticed that when I lie on my stomach with my body arched upwards, I feel this sensation again.
I would like to know if this could possibly be a muscle issue? Sometimes, I also feel this sensation on the right side of my navel, and the location seems to vary.
Over the past six months to a year, I've gained weight, going from 68 kg to 74 kg, and I'm wondering if the tightness of my pants and my sitting posture might be causing this sensation due to the extra abdominal fat.
I'm curious if this could be related to the abdominal fat or if there might be any underlying conditions, such as parasites or appendicitis.
I asked the doctor if I needed an ultrasound, but the gastroenterologist said it wasn't necessary since it wouldn't show anything.
I hope the doctor can help answer my questions.
Thank you.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/06

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Based on your description, the most likely diagnosis is an abdominal muscle strain, possibly caused by recent exercises similar to sit-ups.
Typically, allowing the abdominal muscles to rest will lead to improvement.
As for any potential intestinal issues, ultrasound may not reveal anything significant; the assessment primarily relies on symptoms, such as whether there is vomiting, diarrhea, or fever.
If these symptoms are present, further examination, such as a colonoscopy, may be necessary.
If not, observation is sufficient.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2023/01/06

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain can be complex, as it can arise from various causes ranging from benign to serious conditions. Based on your description of the pain near your navel and its association with posture and body weight, several factors could be contributing to your discomfort.

Possible Causes of Abdominal Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: Given that you mentioned the pain feels similar to back pain and is influenced by your posture, it is possible that the discomfort is musculoskeletal in nature. Poor posture, especially when sitting or lying down, can lead to muscle strain or tension in the abdominal area. Additionally, if you have gained weight, this could contribute to increased pressure on your abdominal muscles and organs, potentially leading to discomfort.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: While your gastroenterologist has indicated that there are no significant concerns, gastrointestinal issues can still manifest as abdominal pain. Conditions such as gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even mild forms of diverticulitis could cause intermittent pain. The fact that the pain is not constant and varies in location could suggest a functional gastrointestinal disorder.

3. Weight Gain and Abdominal Pressure: The increase in your weight from 68 kg to 74 kg may be contributing to the discomfort. Excess abdominal fat can lead to increased intra-abdominal pressure, which may cause discomfort, especially when sitting or bending. Tight clothing can exacerbate this sensation, as it may compress the abdomen and lead to discomfort.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the abdomen can be referred from other areas, such as the back or pelvis. Conditions affecting the spine, such as herniated discs or muscle strain, can cause referred pain that may be felt in the abdominal region.

5. Potential for Serious Conditions: While less likely given your recent evaluation, it is important to remain vigilant for signs of more serious conditions. Appendicitis, for example, typically presents with localized pain in the lower right abdomen, but atypical presentations can occur. Other conditions, such as kidney stones or infections, can also cause abdominal pain.

When to Seek Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe Pain: If the pain becomes severe or unbearable.

- Fever: A fever accompanying abdominal pain could indicate an infection or other serious condition.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in your stool should prompt further evaluation.

- Nausea/Vomiting: If you experience persistent nausea or vomiting, especially if you cannot keep food or fluids down.

- Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss can be a red flag and should be evaluated.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to musculoskeletal issues or weight gain, it is essential to monitor your condition. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you develop any concerning symptoms, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider further diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and engaging in regular physical activity can help alleviate some of the discomfort you are experiencing.

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