Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is discomfort anywhere between the lower ribs and the pelvis. People often call it stomach or tummy pain, although the cause may involve the bowel, urinary system, reproductive organs or another area. Location, severity, timing and accompanying symptoms help determine how urgently it needs assessment.

Which details help a doctor most?

Describe where the pain began, whether it moved, and whether it is constant or comes in waves. Explain whether eating, movement, urination or a bowel movement changes it. Mention vomiting, fever, diarrhoea, constipation, bleeding and any possibility of pregnancy.

A pain score is useful, but so is function: can you walk normally, drink and carry out basic tasks? Tell the clinician about previous abdominal surgery, recent travel and existing conditions. Do not leave out chest discomfort or pain spreading to the shoulder because it seems unrelated.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Abdominal pain - causes, self-care and treatments | healthdirect.

Can abdominal pain be assessed online?

Telehealth can help establish the history and decide where you should be seen. Many causes require an abdominal examination, urine testing, blood tests or imaging. A doctor may direct you to in-person care without being able to give a definite diagnosis remotely.

Avoid assuming the cause is the same as a previous episode. A known digestive condition does not rule out a new problem. Ask what changes to monitor and when another assessment is needed. If you are told to seek urgent care, do not wait to see whether a routine online appointment becomes available.

When is it urgent?

Severe or worsening pain, persistent vomiting, a swollen abdomen, blood in vomit or stool, or inability to pass urine or gas needs prompt assessment. Pain with possible pregnancy, fainting or marked illness is also concerning. Call 000 for collapse, severe chest symptoms or life-threatening deterioration. New significant abdominal pain should not be managed solely by matching symptoms to an internet diagnosis.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.