Sometimes the answer isn’t so simple. Gas often causes very severe pain that is felt very acutely by certain parts of the body. How Do I Know If My Stomach Pain Is Serious? Has your digestive system been acting up? I am a 20 year old male and I have stomach pain. It can cause upper and lower abdominal pain as well as accumulating in your chest but it does usually go away. A sharp pain in the abdomen can often be triggered by a buildup of gas. But how do I know if my stomach pain is serious? Then again, a recurring discomfort you ignore for months—or years—could become something that is life threatening. But how do you know when tummy troubles might mean a more serious health problem? It may be caused by something simple, such as overeating or indigestion. Stomach pain can feel very uncomfortable, but it often signals a minor illness. Here, experts talk about the most common signs your tummy troubles need more than an over-the-counter remedy. The severity of the pain, its location within your abdominal area, and accompanying symptoms may provide clues to the origin of the pain — and whether or not you should seek help immediately. : Stomach pain, or abdominal pain, can range from bloating and indigestion to severe and sharp, stabbing pain. But it can also be a symptom of appendicitis. Learn more from our experts. The good news is, the discomfort and pain usually disappear within a few days. There are several signs that indicate your stomach pain is serious. Having diarrhea with stomach pain is a common symptom of stomach flu. I got up and went to the bathroom, and whenever I flexed or moved my stomach, there was intense pain. I think my stomach pain makes me anxious. Gas pain doesn't make your belly sensitive to the touch, so if you notice extreme pain, always seek medical advice. Severe pain that lasts more than an hour, bloody bowel movements, abdominal lumps and other symptoms mean your stomach pain needs medical attention. If your pain is prolonged, then you should definitely see a doctor. Prolonged or Severe. If your pain is persistent and does not go away, pay close attention to your symptoms in case you need to see a specialist. Abdominal pain and diarrhea can be all-too familiar, and nearly everybody will suffer from this combination at some point during their lifetime. How do I know if my abdominal pain is serious or not? This morning I woke up and laid still for a while, and then turned over and stretched and immediately thought I had pulled a muscle or something. I also have major health issues but I think I’ve accepted them. Are you experiencing abdominal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation on a regular basis? 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