Gastrointestinal pain

Gastrointestinal Pain

Gastrointestinal (GI) pain is a common complaint that can range from mild to severe. It can be caused by numerous conditions, including ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach flu, and food poisoning. Many times, the cause of GI pain can be managed with home remedies or lifestyle changes. Here's what you need to know about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments for gastrointestinal pain.

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Pain

Common symptoms of GI pain include:

Abdominal pain or cramping
A feeling of fullness or bloating
Gas
Nausea
Vomiting
Blood in the stool
Diarrhea

Diagnosing Gastrointestinal Pain

If you're experiencing abdominal pain, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and order lab tests to help get to the root cause. Common tests used to diagnose gastrointestinal pain include:

Ultrasound
CT scan
Blood tests
Upper endoscopy
Colonoscopy
Stool sample
Breath test

Treating Gastrointestinal Pain

The treatment for gastrointestinal pain depends on the underlying cause. Some treatments may include:

Dietary changes
Antibiotics
Antacids
Antidiarrheal medications
Pain medications
Surgery
Probiotics

Preventing Gastrointestinal Pain

To reduce your risk of gastrointestinal pain, it's important to keep a balanced diet and avoid certain trigger foods. Be sure to stay hydrated and get regular exercise as well. It's also important to practice good hygiene, wash your hands frequently, and take regular trips to the bathroom so you don't strain too much when you go.