We’ve all experienced strange or uncomfortable sensations in our stomachs. Most of the time, these gut grumblings aren’t cause for concern.
However, if you’re experiencing persistent or severe abdominal pain, it shouldn’t be dismissed. In this case, it’s important to seek care from a GI specialist—especially if over-the-counter remedies aren’t helping.
At Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, John M. Rivas, MD, has years of experience diagnosing and treating abdominal pain. Dr. Rivas works hard to understand the root of the problem and prevent future complications.
The first step in getting better is making an appointment, so take a moment to read about the top three reasons to seek care when you experience abdominal pain as you schedule your consultation.
There are many different types of abdominal pain and many different root causes that can trigger this uncomfortable condition. Knowing the cause of your symptoms helps ensure you get the right care.
While stomach discomfort is sometimes triggered by stress, it can also be a sign of an ulcer or inflammation. In some cases, abdominal pain can be related to underlying issues with your digestive tract or other systems.
For example, if you frequently experience a burning feeling in the upper part of your abdomen, it could be a symptom of gastritis or a peptic ulcer.
Likewise, if you have ongoing abdominal discomfort that’s accompanied by yellowing of your skin (jaundice), you might have an issue with your liver or gallbladder.
Getting an accurate diagnosis from a specialist like Dr. Rivas to figure out the root cause of your abdominal pain is the first step in treatment. Only a GI specialist has the expertise to differentiate between potential causes and recommend diagnostic tests.
Health care isn’t a one-size-fits-all system. This means you may need treatments that differ from others, even when they have undergone treatment for similar issues.
For example, two people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can have completely different symptoms, like diarrhea and stomach cramps versus constipation and bloating. And even when symptoms are the same, the underlying triggers may differ between people.
A GI provider like Dr. Rivas works to understand your body and your needs to recommend a personalized treatment approach.
Like many health care issues, if you leave a digestive issue untreated, you increase your risk of complications. Seeking care early on helps prevent small issues from growing into challenging problems.
For example, untreated persistent heartburn can lead to gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or even the development of a precursor to esophageal cancer. Likewise, undiagnosed celiac disease can lead to malnutrition, anemia, and other serious complications.
To reduce your risk of complications down the line, seek treatment early on for abdominal pain that doesn’t go away. Be sure to talk to Dr. Rivas about any concerns you might have.
It’s essential not to dismiss persistent or severe symptoms of abdominal pain. Dr. Rivas has years of experience and a wealth of knowledge in a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions.
Taking proactive steps and seeking specialized care is crucial when it comes to your health, and understanding your body and getting the care you need can help ensure you have a healthy digestive system for life.
Dr. Rivas begins with a comprehensive evaluation that includes an in-depth assessment of your presenting symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. He orders additional imaging studies or lab tests as needed to uncover the root cause of your pain.
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain or would like to learn more about preventive measures, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment online or over the phone at Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, today.
