Mid-abdominal pain usually occurs due to various reasons. There are different bodily systems and organs present within or close to the abdomen, thus determining the precise cause of pain can be a difficult task. The potential causes of mid-abdominal pain include problems with the gallbladder, heart, pancreas, blood vessels, stomach, reproductive organs, colon or kidneys. Some of the possible conditions that can cause mid-abdominal pain can resolve over time while others can be serious and would require medical care. If the individual complains about pain in the mid-abdomen, it is best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The condition is often caused by a virus that causes cramping in the middle and upper abdomen. The other symptoms of this condition include nausea, diarrhea, fever and vomiting. The virus responsible for this condition can be acquired by getting into contact with infected food, infected individual or when travelling. Take note that prolonged diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration. If you want to learn how to properly manage these symptoms, click here.
Peptic ulcer
Peptic ulcer involves the erosion of the tissue lining the stomach or small intestines. It is important to note that ulcers usually cause gnawing or burning pain in the mid-upper abdomen. The mid-abdominal pain can lessen after the individual eats but tends to recur after a few hours or at night time. The treatment for ulcers can help avoid complications that include passing out of blood-streaked stools, vomiting blood, dizziness, weakness and thirst.
Ulcers can also lead to the perforation of the stomach or small intestines. This can cause intense pain throughout the abdomen and back. Understandably, this entails immediate medical care. Take note that some types of ulcer can increase the risk for stomach cancer. The primary risk factors for peptic ulcers include the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and smoking.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
The aorta is considered as the major blood vessel that starts from the heart and goes through the chest and abdomen. An aneurysm develops once a segment of the aorta becomes weakened, resulting to a bulge in the wall. Aneurysms can occur in any part of the aorta but most likely within the abdomen. Most cases of aortic aneurysms are small and progress at a slow rate, thus it does not cause significant problems. On the other hand, a large and quick-growing aneurysm is likely to rupture, thus leading to serious bleeding.
An aortic aneurysm could not cause any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, it is a pulsating sensation in the center of the abdomen close to the navel. The individual will also experience pain in the abdomen, back or chest particularly when pressure is applied.