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    3. Gastroenterology
    4. Abdominal Pain

    Abdominal Pain

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, our dedicated Gastroenterology specialists work to diagnose and provide abdominal pain treatment with precision and care. Using advanced diagnostic technology and a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, we aim to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms promptly, often with results available on the same day.

     

    Dr Sarmed Sami, Consultant Gastroenterologist, explains the common causes, diagnosis and treatment of abdominal pain at Mayo Clinic Healthcare London.

    • The abdomen, located between the ribs and pelvis, houses many vital organs including:

      • Liver
      • Bladder
      • Spleen
      • Bile ducts
      • Gallbladder
      • Kidneys
      • Pancreas
      • Small intestine
      • Large intestine
      • Appendix

      Abdominal pain, often described as a “stomach ache”, can arise from any of these organs and may indicate anything from a mild, self-limiting condition to a more complex underlying disorder.

      At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in central London, our specialists take a comprehensive view, working across disciplines to ensure that all potential causes are carefully assessed and addressed.

      Abdomen pain can indicate an issue with an organ. Our specialist team will work collaboratively across departments like Diagnostics, to rule out any other conditions affecting these organs. 

    • Abdominal pain can vary in extremity, duration and location, but the symptoms are usually: 

      • Burning sensations
      • Bloating
      • Nausea
      • Diarrhea or change in bowel habits
      • A sharp/dull ache in the abdominal region

      While many cases resolve within a few days, persistent, severe, or recurrent symptoms warrant further investigation. Seeking early specialist input can be important in identifying more serious conditions and beginning appropriate abdominal pain treatment. 

    • Abdominal pain has a wide range of causes. Understanding the location and nature of the discomfort often helps guide diagnosis. 

      Digestive Issues:

      Pain that occurs after eating may be caused by: 

      • Indigestion
      • Trapped gas
      • Constipation
      • Food allergies
      • Food poisoning

      Inflammation:

      • Stomach flu
      • Chronic acid reflux
      • Urinary Tract Infection

      Menstration:

      • Ovulation pain
      • Menstrual cramps
      • Adenomyosis

      Serious causes of abdominal pain are identified by the location of the discomfort. 

      Upper right abdominal pain may be: 

      • Gallstones
      • Gallbladder inflammation
      • Cancer of the bile duct, gallbladder or liver
      • Kidney stones
      • Bowel obstruction
      • Hepatitis

      Upper left abdominal pain may be: 

      • Pancreatitis
      • Pancreatic Cancer
      • Stomach ulcer
      • Gastritis
      • Cancer of the stomach

      Lower abdominal pain may be: 

      • Bladder inflammation
      • Bladder stones
      • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
      • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
      • Crohn’s Disease
      • Ulcerative Colitis
      • Hernia

      Pelvic Organ pain may be:

      • Endometriosis
      • Ectopic Pregnancy
      • Cancer of the ovaries or Uterus
      • Uterine Fibroids
      • Ovarian Cysts
      • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
      • Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome (FHCS)

      Lower Left abdominal pain may be: 

      • Diverticulosis
      • Diverticulitis

      Lower right abdominal pain may be: 

      • Appendicoliths
      • Appendicitis
      • Cancer of the appendix

    • Accurate diagnosis is central to effective abdominal pain treatment. At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, our consultants take the time to understand your symptoms, medical history, and any relevant risk factors before recommending investigations. 

      Tests may include: 

      • Gastroscopy and colonoscopy
      • Advanced endoscopic imaging and biopsy
      • Polyp detection and removal
      • Endoscopic ultrasound where appropriate
      • Motility and functional testing
      • Blood and stool investigations

      Imaging plays a key role in identifying underlying causes: 

      • CT-Scan: used to identify causes like inflammation, infection, stones, or internal injury. 
      • Ultrasound: used to detect issues like gallstones, inflammation, fluid buildup, or organ abnormalities.
      • MRI: used to identify inflammation, tumors, soft tissue injuries, or other abnormalities. 

      Where appropriate, patients benefit from input across multiple specialties like Diagnostics, ensuring a truly integrated and thorough evaluation. 

    • Private abdominal pain treatment is always tailored to the underlying cause, as well as your individual health profile and lifestyle. Our consultants develop personalised treatment plans designed for both immediate relief and long-term management. 

      Initial and conservative treatments

      • Dietary adjustments, including fibre optimisation where appropriate
      • Hydration with clear fluids
      • Heat therapy for symptom relief
      • Pain management with suitable medications

      Medical treatments

      For ongoing or more complex conditions, treatment may include:

      • Antibiotics for infection
      • Acid-reducing medications such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors
      • Specialist therapies for chronic gastrointestinal conditions
      • Referral for oncology care where required

      In some cases, minimally invasive or surgical interventions may be recommended, always guided by expert clinical judgement.

    • Mayo Clinic Healthcare brings the internationally recognised standards of Mayo Clinic to central London, offering patients access to:

      • A highly experienced, multidisciplinary team of specialists
      • Advanced diagnostic technology with rapid turnaround times
      • Evidence-based, personalised treatment plans
      • Seamless coordination across specialties
      • A discreet, world-class clinical environment in the heart of London

      Our approach is centred on delivering clarity, confidence, and continuity of care at every stage of your journey.

    Private health insurance

    We work with all major private health insurers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, Bupa, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay options are also available, offering flexibility for both UK-based and international patients. 

    Private assessment

    Our team is here to answer your questions and identify the cause of abdominal pain and provide personalised treatment options. Request an appointment with us today. or call +44 (0) 207 871 2575.

     

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr Sarmed Sami, Consultant Gastroenterologist

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