Abdominal Pain Specialist

What causes abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain is common and sometimes completely normal if you’re sick, stressed, or if you’ve eaten something that doesn’t agree with you. Stomach pain that comes on suddenly or that lasts longer than a few days, however, could indicate a more serious problem. Some of the most common conditions that cause abdominal pain are:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition that is often characterized by pain, bloating, gas, and alternating diarrhea and constipation 

• Crohn's disease: A digestive condition that causes inflammation in the colon and produces symptoms that are similar to IBS

• Food allergies: Foods like gluten and dairy can commonly cause digestive disturbances

Many other underlying medical conditions can cause abdominal pain, including gallstones, a hernia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or appendicitis.

In women, abdominal pain is sometimes related to cramping during the menstrual cycle.

How is abdominal pain treated?

Since there are so many potential causes of abdominal pain, Dr. Brelian's first priority is to obtain an accurate diagnosis based on your symptoms and your health history. He might recommend a series of tests to pinpoint the cause of your pain, including X-rays, a colonoscopy, allergy testing, or blood work.  

Your treatment plan depends entirely on your diagnosis, but relieving abdominal pain starts with reducing inflammation in the intestinal tract and healing the root cause. Dr. Brelian might recommend specific dietary changes that will help support your gastrointestinal health, or he may prescribe certain medications to accelerate your recovery.

In certain cases, surgery is necessary to remove polyps or abnormal growths in the GI tract.

What results can I expect from treatment?

People who have been living with chronic abdominal pain are often amazed to discover how it feels to be pain-free. Dr. Brelian has had success treating hundreds of patients with a wide variety of complicated gastrointestinal issues. He is committed to helping you find relief, and to ensure you receive the best possible care.

While it can take time for the gastrointestinal tract to recover, it’s possible to regain digestive health and live without pain. To begin your journey toward healing, call or book an appointment online today.