Abdominal pain is one of the most common complaints in primary care. It can be caused by a wide range of conditions, both benign and serious.

A good understanding of the potential causes of abdominal pain can help clinicians make a timely and accurate diagnosis, and appropriately manage patients. In this article, we will discuss 11 possible causes of abdominal pain through images.

1. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix, a small organ located in the lower right side of the abdomen, becomes inflamed. The condition is often characterized by pain in the upper abdomen, which gradually moves to the lower right side.

Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, and constipation or diarrhea. In severe cases, the appendix may rupture, leading to complications such as peritonitis. The image below shows the location of the appendix in the body.

2. Gallstones

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located just below the liver. These stones can cause pain in the upper abdomen, especially after eating fatty foods. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and fever.

In some cases, gallstones can lead to complications such as pancreatitis or cholecystitis. The image below shows the location of the gallbladder in the body.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a condition in which the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. This can lead to a burning sensation in the chest, often referred to as heartburn.

Other symptoms may include regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and a bitter taste in the mouth. The image below shows the location of the esophagus and stomach in the body.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common condition that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.

The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it may be related to abnormalities in the nerves that control the digestive system. The image below shows the location of the large intestine in the body.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stools, and fatigue.

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it may be related to problems with the immune system. The image below shows the location of the digestive tract in the body.

6. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard, crystalline deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain in the back or side of the abdomen, which may radiate to the groin. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine.

The image below shows the location of the kidneys in the body.

7. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries. They can cause pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, especially during menstruation. Other symptoms may include bloating, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.

The image below shows the location of the ovaries in the body.

8. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. It can cause pain in the lower abdomen, especially during intercourse or menstruation.

Other symptoms may include fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, and painful urination. The image below shows the location of the reproductive organs in the body.

9. Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)

PUD is a condition in which ulcers, or open sores, form in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The condition is often characterized by pain in the upper abdomen, which may improve after eating.

Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and changes in appetite. The image below shows the location of the stomach and duodenum in the body.

10. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A UTI is an infection of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. It can cause pain or a burning sensation during urination, as well as pain in the lower abdomen.

Other symptoms may include fever, cloudy or bloody urine, and a frequent urge to urinate. The image below shows the location of the urinary system in the body.

11. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

An AAA is a bulge or ballooning in the wall of the aorta, the largest artery in the body. The condition can cause pain in the abdomen, back, or side, which may be severe and sudden. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and clammy skin.

If not treated promptly, an AAA can rupture, leading to life-threatening bleeding. The image below shows the location of the aorta in the body.