When to Seek Urgent Care for Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain, often called a stomachache, is a common symptom that most people experience at some point. In many cases, it is mild and temporary. However, certain types of abdominal pain can signal a more serious medical condition that requires prompt evaluation. Knowing when to ignore mild discomfort and when to seek urgent care can protect your health and prevent complications.

This guide explains the common causes of abdominal pain, warning signs you should never ignore, and when to visit urgent care for immediate treatment.

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can originate from many different systems in the body. The cause may be simple digestive discomfort or a condition involving internal organs.

Common causes include:

• Gas, bloating, or constipation
• Indigestion or acid reflux
• Food intolerance or mild food poisoning
• Stomach viruses
• Muscle strain

In many situations, these issues improve within a short time. However, persistent or worsening pain should not be ignored.

Warning Signs of Abdominal Pain You Should Never Ignore

Some symptoms indicate that abdominal pain may require urgent medical evaluation.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe, or sharp abdominal pain
• Lower right abdominal pain that worsens quickly
• Abdominal pain with fever or chills
• Persistent vomiting or nausea
• Blood in stool or black, tarry stools
• Swelling or extreme tenderness in the abdomen
• Pain that wakes you from sleep
• Pain with chest discomfort or shortness of breath

These symptoms may signal infections, inflammation, appendicitis, gallbladder problems, or other serious conditions.

Risks of Ignoring Persistent Abdominal Pain

Ignoring abdominal pain can delay diagnosis and treatment. While mild discomfort may pass on its own, ongoing or intense pain can lead to serious complications.

If left untreated:

• Infections may spread
• Inflammation can worsen
• Organs such as the appendix or gallbladder may rupture
• Dehydration may occur due to vomiting or diarrhea

Early medical evaluation can prevent complications and support faster recovery.

Abdominal Pain After Eating: What It Could Mean

Abdominal pain after eating is a frequent complaint. The timing and location of the pain often provide clues about its cause.

Possible reasons include:

• Indigestion or acid reflux
• Food intolerance or allergies
• Gallbladder disease
• Gastritis or ulcers
• Irritable bowel conditions

If pain consistently occurs after meals, especially if it becomes severe or persistent, medical evaluation is recommended.

When Is Abdominal Pain Not Serious?

Not all abdominal pain is an emergency. Mild stomach discomfort caused by gas, minor digestive upset, or temporary irritation often improves within hours.

However, you should see a healthcare provider if:

• Pain lasts longer than 24 hours
• Pain returns frequently
• Over-the-counter remedies do not provide relief
  
• Pain interferes with eating, movement, or sleep

Monitoring symptoms and recognising changes is essential.

When to Visit Urgent Care for Abdominal Pain

You should visit urgent care if your abdominal pain is:

• Severe or worsening
• Accompanied by fever, vomiting, or dehydration
• Associated with blood in stool
• Causing difficulty standing or moving
• Occurring during pregnancy
• Following an injury or accident

At NewMed Immediate Care, we provide same-day evaluation for abdominal pain and digestive concerns. Our clinics offer on-site lab testing and prompt treatment for patients in:

• Mt Prospect, IL
• Hoffman Estates, IL
• Rolling Meadows, IL

If you are experiencing stomach pain, do not delay care. Walk in today or schedule an appointment for immediate evaluation.

Quick Summary

• Mild abdominal pain is often temporary and harmless
• Severe or persistent stomach pain should never be ignored
• Pain with fever, vomiting, or blood requires urgent attention
• Early medical evaluation helps prevent serious complications

If you are unsure whether your symptoms require emergency care or urgent evaluation, it is always safer to have your condition assessed by a medical professional at Newmed Immediate Care.