Abdominal Pain
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Katy Digestive Center
Murtaza Arif, MD
Gastroenterology located in Katy, TX
While occasional abdominal pain or cramps are common, especially when you eat too much, persistent, worsening pain can be an indication something more is wrong. At Katy Digestive Center in Katy, Texas, Murtaza Arif, MD, can diagnose unexplained stomach discomfort or pain. Dr. Arif also provides custom treatment plans to alleviate pain due to indigestion, ulcers, or other digestive disorders. If bloating or abdominal pain is getting worse, don’t delay an evaluation. You can book a consultation today, using the online booking feature or by calling Katy Digestive Center now.
Abdominal Pain Q & A
What causes abdominal pain?
A wide range of factors can cause pain in your abdomen. For pain relating to digestive issues, the cause may be due to conditions like:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Stomach ulcers
- Gastritis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Gallstones
You may experience further discomfort if other symptoms accompany your pain, such as chronic diarrhea or constipation.
In the event of sudden, intense abdominal pain, you should visit the local emergency room to rule out life-threatening conditions, such as appendicitis, rupture or diverticulitis, which may require hospitalization or surgery.
What is the process for diagnosing abdominal pain?
Because abdominal pain can result from a variety of factors, Dr. Arif first evaluates your medical history and performs a physical exam. He may also ask you questions about your diet, lifestyle, and the activities you were doing when the pain started.
In some cases, your medical history and symptoms can help pinpoint the cause of abdominal pain. However, unexplained pain may require additional testing, such as:
- Blood work
- X-ray
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- Endoscopy
These diagnostic tests help Dr. Arif identify abnormalities in your digestive tract that can cause pain.
What treatments are available for abdominal pain?
Dr. Arif designs a treatment plan to address your specific symptoms and cause of pain. He may initially recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and avoiding fatty or spicy foods that can cause indigestion. You may also use over-the-counter medications to reduce gas, bloating, and constipation.
If you smoke, you can also get resources from Dr. Arif to help you quit. Giving up smoking can further improve indigestion and acid reflux symptoms.
If you experience chronic pain from stomach ulcers, sores that develop in your small intestine or stomach lining, Dr. Arif may suggest dietary changes and medications to heal and increase your comfort. You may also benefit from medications that neutralize stomach acids or reduce the acid your stomach produces.
For ulcers that don’t respond to treatment, Dr. Arif may suggest surgery to remove the ulcer to prevent bleeding and other digestive health complications.
When your abdominal pain persists, worsens or you experience other uncomfortable symptoms, schedule a diagnostic evaluation with Dr. Arif using the online booking feature or by calling the office.
