Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, but it’s also one of the most confusing symptoms to evaluate. Some stomach pain resolves on its own, while other cases can signal serious or life-threatening conditions that require immediate emergency treatment.
Knowing when abdominal pain is an emergency can help you avoid dangerous delays and get the right level of care quickly.
What Causes Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain can originate from many organs, including the stomach, intestines, appendix, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and reproductive organs.
Common Non-Emergency Causes
- Gas or bloating
- Indigestion or acid reflux
- Mild constipation
- Stomach virus
- Muscle strain
These typically improve with rest, hydration, or over-the-counter treatments.
When Abdominal Pain IS an Emergency
You should go to the emergency room immediately if abdominal pain is accompanied by any of the following:
Severe or Sudden Pain
- Intense pain that appears suddenly
- Pain that worsens quickly
- Pain that wakes you from sleep
Pain With Dangerous Symptoms
- Fever over 101°F
- Persistent vomiting
- Vomiting blood or passing black stools
- Severe bloating or a hard abdomen
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
Pain in a Specific Abdominal Quadrant
The location of abdominal pain can provide important clues about its cause. Seek emergency care if pain is concentrated in one of the following areas:
Right Lower Quadrant Pain
- May indicate appendicitis
Right Upper Quadrant Pain
- May be related to gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or infection
Upper Quadrant Pain Radiating to the Back
- May be a sign of pancreatitis
Special High-Risk Situations
- Abdominal pain during pregnancy
- Pain after an accident or fall
- Pain in infants, elderly patients, or immunocompromised individuals
Do not wait if symptoms feel “different than usual” or rapidly worsen.
Conditions That May Require Emergency Care
Some potentially serious causes of abdominal pain include:
- Appendicitis
- Gallstones or gallbladder infection
- Pancreatitis
- Bowel obstruction
- Kidney stones with infection
- Internal bleeding
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm
These conditions often require advanced imaging, labs, and immediate treatment, which are available in Full Spectrum’s full-service emergency room.
Urgent Care vs Emergency Room for Abdominal Pain
Understanding where to go can save time and improve outcomes.
Urgent Care May Be Appropriate If:
- Pain is mild and improving
- No fever, vomiting, or severe tenderness
- Pain has been present for several days without worsening
Go to the Emergency Room if:
- Pain is severe, sudden, or worsening
- You have fever, vomiting, or dehydration
- Pain is localized or associated with chest pain
How Abdominal Pain Is Evaluated in the ER
At a freestanding emergency room, evaluation may include:
- Physical examination
- Blood and urine tests
- CT scan or ultrasound
- IV fluids and pain management
This allows providers to quickly rule out serious conditions and begin treatment immediately.
When in Doubt, Choose Emergency Care
Abdominal pain can be deceptive. What starts as “just stomach pain” can become a medical emergency within hours. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to be evaluated promptly.
Full Spectrum Emergency Room & Urgent Care offers 24/7 emergency care with on-site imaging and labs, providing fast answers when symptoms are concerning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is abdominal pain always an emergency?
No. Mild, short-lived pain often resolves on its own. Severe, sudden, or worsening pain should be evaluated immediately.
How long should I wait before going to the ER for stomach pain?
If pain lasts more than a few hours and worsens, or includes fever or vomiting, seek emergency care.
Can urgent care diagnose appendicitis?
Urgent care may refer you, but appendicitis usually requires ER-level imaging and treatment.
Serving San Antonio 24/7
If you or a loved one is experiencing concerning abdominal pain, don’t wait. Emergency evaluation can be critical.
