Everyone experiences abdominal pain from time to time. Other terms used to describe abdominal pain are stomachache, tummy ache, gut ache and bellyache. Abdominal pain can be mild or severe. It may be constant or come and go. Abdominal pain can be short-lived, also called acute. It also may happen over weeks, months or years, also known as chronic.

Call a healthcare professional right away if you have abdominal pain so bad that you can't move without causing more pain. Also call if you can't sit still or find a comfortable position.

Call 911 or emergency medical assistance

Seek help if your abdominal pain is severe and is associated with:

• Trauma, such as an accident or injury.
• Pressure or pain in your chest.

Seek immediate medical attention

Have someone drive you to urgent care or the emergency room if you have:

• Severe pain.
• Fever.
• Bloody stools.
• Nausea and vomiting that won't go away.
• Weight loss.
• Skin that appears discolored.
• Severe tenderness when you touch your abdomen.
• Swelling of the abdomen.

Schedule a doctor's visit

Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if your abdominal pain worries you or lasts more than a few days.

In the meantime, find ways to ease your pain. For instance, drink enough fluids and eat smaller meals if your pain is accompanied by indigestion. Avoid taking nonprescription pain relievers or laxatives unless directed by a healthcare professional.

March 21, 2025

Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/abdominal-pain/basics/definition/SYM-20050728