What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain or Cramping?
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Definition
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While lower abdominal pain and cramping is common, it can be the result of serious medical conditions. Making a definite diagnosis can be difficult because of the many disorders that can stem from these symptoms. Most frequently, the cause is benign, but more serious ailments may require medical intervention. Lower abdominal pain and cramping can be described by its nature and progression over time.
Organs
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Because there are many organs in the abdomen, pain can originate from any one of them. The organs related to digestion include the stomach, liver, gall bladder, small intestine, large intestine and pancreas. The aorta is a large blood vessel that runs straight down the abdomen, while the spleen is an organ involved in blood maintenance and controls infection. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that lie within the abdominal cavity. Lower abdominal pain stemming from any of these organs needs immediate medical attention.
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Appendicitis
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Appendicitis is a medical condition in which your appendix begins to fill with pus and becomes inflamed. The appendix is a finger-shaped pouch that is on the lower right side of your abdomen. The pain of appendicitis begins in your navel and projects to the lower right abdomen. The pain or cramping increases over 12 to 18 hours and can become severe. Because the appendix serves no known purpose, the standard treatment for appendicitis is the removal of the appendix.
Cystitis
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Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder and can be caused by a urinary tract infection, reaction to certain drugs, radiation therapy or irritants such as catheter use, feminine hygiene spray or spermicidal jellies. Cystitis can cause serious pain and cramping in your lower abdomen and can create more serious health problems if the infection spreads throughout your body. The common treatment for cystitis is an antibiotic regimen prescribed by a doctor.
Diverticulitis
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Diverticulitis occurs when the diverticula in your digestive tract becomes infected or inflamed. Diverticula are small pouches that can be found in any areas of your digestive system, including the large intestine, small intestine, stomach and esophagus. Diverticulitis causes severe lower abdominal pain, cramping, nausea and changes in your bowel habits. This condition can be treated with antibiotics, changes in diet and rest.
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