Abdominal pain is pain that originates from organs located between the chest and groin. It may also be due to referred pain from a condition in another area of the body.

The abdomen contains organs including the stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, kidneys, intestines and ovaries. Abdominal pain may be caused by disorders in these organs, including inflammation, infection and obstruction. In other cases it may be caused by digestive, reproductive, metabolic or other disorders. The pain may also result from an infection or disorder somewhere else in the body, such as strep throat or a heart attack.

In most cases, however, abdominal pain is the result of a minor condition. Overeating, increased acid, gas, constipation and ovulation are common causes of discomfort.

In addition to affecting the stomach area, abdominal pain can cause discomfort in other areas, such as the chest, neck and shoulder. This is the result of the pain traveling down nerve pathways through the body.

To determine the cause of abdominal pain, physicians may take a medical history and perform a physical examination. A number of tests may also be performed to help identify and rule out conditions that may be causing the pain. These may include blood tests, urine tests,endoscopy, ultrasound, x-rays and CAT scan. In some cases, laparoscopy or other types of surgery are also required. Even with all the testing, sometimes it may not be possible to find the cause of the abdominal pain, and symptomatic treatment is usually done in these cases.

Because abdominal pain is often the result of a mild condition, many patients are able to treat their pain with home remedies and over-the-counter medications, such as antacids or acetaminophen. Other conditions are more serious and may require medical attention. Physicians may treat more severe causes of abdominal pain with prescription medication or, in some cases, surgery.

Patients should contact their physician when abdominal pain is severe, frequent, constant (lasting one week or more) or worsening. Pain accompanied by fever, vomiting and a number of other symptoms is also a cause for concern. Patients with abdominal pain who are vomiting blood or experiencing pain in the neck, chest, back or shoulder should seek emergency medical attention.