How to Diagnose Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a vague term often used by patients to describe pain or discomfort in the midsection of the body. Diagnosing abdominal pain can be difficult without detailed information regarding the timing, type and location of symptoms. Most causes of abdominal pain are minor and generally the result of a viral infection or chronic indigestion. However, a number of serious disorders can cause significant abdominal pain as well. For this reason, both chronic and acute episodes of abdominal pain should be taken seriously. Uncovering the cause of abdominal pain begins with the patient, but only a licensed medical doctor can diagnose and treat any disease or disorder responsible for the pain.

Things You'll Need

• Notebook

Instructions

1. Note any symptoms that are present in addition to the abdominal pain, such as bloating, a change in stools, vomiting, fever, blood in the urine or stools, or pain elsewhere in the body. Symptoms accompanying your abdominal pain are important clues in the diagnostic process.

2. Determine the precise location of the pain. Pain in the upper abdomen may be due to gallstones or liver inflammation, while pain lower in the abdomen may be caused by conditions such as diverticulitis, appendicitis or Crohn's disease.

3. Record any triggers responsible for the pain or a worsening of symptoms. If the pain increases after eating, or subsides during times of rest, your doctor should be made aware of this to provide an accurate diagnosis. Use a notebook to keep track of any foods eaten that may be responsible for an increase in pain.

4. Listen to the sounds originating from your abdomen, such as gurgling or rumbling. Certain sounds may point to various abdominal conditions. The more information you can provide your doctor with, the more simple and accurate the diagnostic process will be.

5. Visit your doctor for a complete physical examination, making certain to discuss with her all of your symptoms in detail. Bring any notes you have made regarding the timing, location or type of pain you are experiencing.

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6. Follow through with any testing ordered by your doctor, such as ultrasound or other imaging tests. If lab work is ordered, ascertain whether fasting will be required before you leave your doctor's office.