Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain has many causes ranging from spasms related to the bowel contracting, to gallbladder pain, to diverticulitis (see condition of Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis), or gynecologic pain in women. Most abdominal pain is short-lived and is not in need of any specific workup. Chronic abdominal pain is often related to constipation, scar tissue from prior surgery, or is referred from another source but felt in the abdomen.  Workup, when appropriate, includes a physical exam in our office, radiologic studies such as a CT scan or ultrasound of the abdomen, and sometimes, specialized testing done in our office.

Pelvic floor muscle spasms can sometimes cause pain in the abdomen. This is usually identified with anorectal manometry and superficial EMG (non-needle). Other pelvic pain may be related to conditions of the bladder or gynecologic organs, but may be felt in the abdomen. Referral to a specialist in these areas is often recommended. Abdominal pain related to constipation is usually improved with simple stool softeners or antispasmodics. A more comprehensive workup for chronic constipation may be needed. This may include specialized radiologic studies, physiologic testing in the office, or colonoscopy. We often see patients in our office with unexplained abdominal pain. A good history and physical exam are often all that is needed to make a diagnosis. When a cause related to colon and rectal surgery is found, we will explain what the problem is and how we can make it better.

Abdominal pain has many causes ranging from bowel contractions, gallbladder pain, ulcer, Celiac disease, influenza, diverticulitis, pinworms, Crohn’s disease, diarrhea or women’s health issues resulting from gynecologic pain. Abdominal pain can lead to nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue or irregular bowl movements. Pelvic pain may be related to conditions of the large intestine, colon, bladder or gynecologic organs, but may be felt in the abdomen or anus. Pelvic floor muscle spasm can also cause pain in the abdomen.

Recurrent or chronic abdominal pain symptoms should not be ignored. If the pain is ongoing, keep a record of when and how often you feel pain symptoms and schedule an appointment to be evaluated by a physician. An online appointment request form is located on this website for your convenience.  Your CCRH physician will listen to your explanation of the pain symptoms and document the frequency of your abdominal pain. After your health history has been evaluated and the results of your physical exam have been reviewed, all of your symptoms and the results of the exam will be discussed with you.

More Information

Our goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable environment. Every patient is different. We strive to offer you the most accurate and effective treatment options.

Please contact Bucks County’s premier colorectal group to schedule an appointment and to learn more.

St. Mary Medical Center
St. Clare Medical Building, Suite 130
1203 Langhorne-Newtown Road
Langhorne, PA 19047
215-741-4910