*This is not medical advice. Always consult with your doctor first (for what its worth).

Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, yet it can be caused by many different things—ranging from something mild to a serious condition.

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

• Indigestion or gas
• Constipation
• Food intolerance or food poisoning
• Viral infections (like the flu)
• Appendicitis
• Gallstones or kidney stones
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Ulcers
• Bowel obstruction
• Certain cancers

Even mild pain can sometimes signal something more serious, such as colon cancer, so it’s always best to pay attention, test and address accordingly.

When to See a Doctor

If abdominal pain lasts more than 48 hours, or if it worsens over time, reach out to a gastroenterologist. You should also seek medical care if pain is accompanied by:

• Fever
• Persistent diarrhea