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. Are you experiencing abdominal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation on a regular basis? How Do I Know If My Stomach Pain Is Serious? Know your limits and when you’re close to reaching them, don’t accept additional responsibilities. But it can also be a symptom of appendicitis. I have had 2 open heart surgeries. A sharp pain in the abdomen can often be triggered by a buildup of gas. : Stomach pain, or abdominal pain, can range from bloating and indigestion to severe and sharp, stabbing pain. Having diarrhea with stomach pain is a common symptom of stomach flu. Stomach pain is not usually a cause for concern. Stomach pain can feel very uncomfortable, but it often signals a minor illness. Has your digestive system been acting up? Stomach pain from gastroenteritis, or “stomach flu,” may eventually pass without further problems. I am limited in what I can do now but I’m 61 trying to accept it. If your pain is persistent and does not go away, pay close attention to your symptoms in case you need to see a specialist. I got up and went to the bathroom, and whenever I flexed or moved my stomach, there was intense pain. Gas often causes very severe pain that is felt very acutely by certain parts of the body. Then again, a recurring discomfort you ignore for months—or years—could become something that is life threatening. I am a 20 year old male and I have stomach pain. Gas pain doesn't make your belly sensitive to the touch, so if you notice extreme pain, always seek medical advice. The good news is, the discomfort and pain usually disappear within a few days. If your pain, bloating, and … If your pain is prolonged, then you should definitely see a doctor. How would you know if this is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), something more serious, or just something else entirely? Prolonged or Severe. 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. It can cause upper and lower abdominal pain as well as accumulating in your chest but it does usually go away. It may be caused by something simple, such as overeating or indigestion. Sometimes the answer isn’t so simple. But how do I know if my stomach pain is serious? But how do you know when tummy troubles might mean a more serious health problem? There are several signs that indicate your stomach pain is serious. How do I know if my abdominal pain is serious or not? Severe pain that lasts more than an hour, bloody bowel movements, abdominal lumps and other symptoms mean your stomach pain needs medical attention. 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