Abdominal Pain Diagnosis & Treatment in Los Angeles, CA
Almost everyone experiences abdominal pain at some point, but the causes and severity can vary widely. Pain that keeps returning or does not go away deserves a careful evaluation to find its source. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, our physicians use advanced diagnostic tools and a whole-person approach to pinpoint what is causing your abdominal pain and create a treatment plan that addresses the root cause.
Request an AppointmentCommon Causes of Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain or cramping. It may be spread across the entire abdomen or concentrated in one area, and it may be constant or come and go. Because the abdomen contains many organs, there are numerous possible causes, including:
- Gas, bloating, and indigestion
- Constipation and bowel obstruction
- GERD and gastritis
- Peptic ulcers and H. pylori infection
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and SIBO
- Food sensitivities, food allergies, and food poisoning
- Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and colitis
- Diverticulitis, gallstones, and pancreatitis
- Appendicitis and peritonitis
- Kidney stones, menstrual cramps, and muscle strain
When Abdominal Pain Needs Urgent Attention
Some abdominal pain requires immediate medical care. Seek emergency treatment or call 911 if your pain is severe and sudden, or if it is accompanied by fever, persistent vomiting or inability to keep food down, inability to pass stool, blood in the stool or vomit, pain that is very tender to the touch, pain after an injury, or chest pain. You should also see a doctor for pain that lasts several days, keeps returning, or comes with painful or frequent urination.
How We Diagnose Abdominal Pain
Because abdominal pain has so many potential sources, an accurate diagnosis is the most important step toward effective treatment. Your evaluation at LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition begins with a detailed history and examination, followed by targeted testing such as:
- Capsule endoscopy, in which a swallowed camera captures tens of thousands of images of the small intestine to look for bleeding, ulcers, inflammation, polyps, or Crohn’s disease
- Intestinal breath testing, a non-invasive test measuring hydrogen and methane to identify SIBO and carbohydrate intolerance
- Upper endoscopy to evaluate the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
- Colonoscopy to examine the colon and rectum
- Evaluation of stomach acid levels, since low acid (hypochlorhydria) or absent acid (achlorhydria) can contribute to pain and indigestion
- Laboratory and stool testing to assess inflammation, infection, and nutrient status
Integrative Treatment Tailored to the Cause
Once the source of your pain is identified, your doctor creates a plan that treats the underlying problem. Depending on your diagnosis, care may include medical therapy, treatment of infections or bacterial overgrowth, a personalized digestive disorder diet, targeted nutraceutical supplements, inflammation control strategies, and stress and lifestyle support. Our functional medicine approach ensures your whole health is considered, not just the location of the pain.
Abdominal Pain FAQs
When should I see a doctor for abdominal pain?
See a doctor if pain lasts several days, keeps returning, or interferes with your daily life. Seek emergency care right away for severe pain, fever, persistent vomiting, blood in the stool, or inability to pass stool.
Can gas and bloating cause abdominal pain?
Yes. Trapped gas and bloating are common causes of crampy abdominal pain, often linked to SIBO, food intolerances, or constipation.
What is capsule endoscopy and why is it used for abdominal pain?
Capsule endoscopy uses a tiny camera you swallow to photograph the small intestine. It helps find causes of unexplained pain, bleeding, or iron deficiency that standard scopes may not reach.
Can food sensitivities cause stomach pain?
Yes. Food sensitivities can cause cramping, bloating, and pain hours or even days after eating, which makes them difficult to identify without structured testing.
Is chronic abdominal pain always caused by a digestive problem?
Not always. Muscle strain, kidney stones, gynecologic issues, and other conditions can cause abdominal pain. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether the source is digestive or something else.
What can I do at home while waiting for my appointment?
Eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, avoiding known trigger foods, and limiting alcohol may help mild symptoms. Do not delay care for severe or worsening pain.
How is abdominal pain treated at your practice?
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include medical therapy, treatment of infections or SIBO, dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle support coordinated through our nutritional services.
Get Answers About Your Abdominal Pain in Los Angeles, CA
If you are dealing with frequent or unexplained abdominal pain, call LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition at (310) 289-8000 to schedule an evaluation, or continue reading about GERD.