Abdominal pain is a widespread problem that could affect any person at any time. However, things are not that simple, and not every abdominal pain is caused by the same thing.

Some pains only last a few minutes, whereas others can persist for days on end or recur frequently. Abdominal pain that comes and goes or is of short duration, commonly referred to as acute abdominal pain, is the most common form. It could happen for a variety of reasons and may or may not be treated with medication.

Conversely, abdominal pain that persists for extended periods, known as chronic abdominal pain, could be more complicated and require medical attention.

The location of abdominal pain is one of the ways physicians evaluate the underlying cause. Often, the location of the pain reveals the root cause of the discomfort.

There are various areas of the abdomen where pain can occur, including the upper abdomen, the lower abdomen, or the region around the belly button.

Causes of Deceptive Abdominal Pain

Deceptive abdominal pain refers to recurring or persistent abdominal pain that isn’t caused by stomach issues. The pain can be described as vague, nonspecific, or non-localized, making it hard to determine the underlying cause.

Here are some common causes of deceptive abdominal pain.

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A UTI is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, such as the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Among the common symptoms of a UTI is abdominal pain.

UTI is especially common in women and could also cause fever, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy, and malodorous urine.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a disorder where stomach acid passes up into the esophagus and causes irritation of its lining. One of the most common symptoms of GERD is heartburn, which often feels like a burning sensation in the chest.

However, GERD could also cause upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or food coming back up the esophagus after swallowing.

3. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that grow on or within an ovary. Ovarian cysts can be small and may not cause any symptoms. However, others can be quite large, causing significant discomfort and irregular bleeding.

Ovarian cysts can also cause abdominal pain or pressure on surrounding organs.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a chronic digestive disorder that causes the colon to change shape, making it tough to pass stool. Symptoms of IBS include alternating diarrhea and constipation, abdominal pain or cramping, bloating, and gas.

IBS is relatively common and can affect both men and women.

5. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is an agonizing condition that affects women when tissue that typically lines the uterus begins to grow outside it. This can result in the formation of cysts, scar tissue, pain, and infertility.

Endometriosis symptoms include severe menstrual cramps, chronic abdominal pain, and painful intercourse.

6. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes severe pain and tenderness of the muscles, joints, tendons, and other soft tissues. Fibromyalgia symptoms include essential fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, and abdominal pain.

7. Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety often affect people differently, with some experiencing physical symptoms like chronic abdominal pain.

If patients seek medical advice and cannot find a cause of the abdominal pain, depression or anxiety disorders could be to blame.

8. Adhesions

Adhesions occur when the body produces scar tissue after an injury or surgery in the abdomen or pelvic area. Adhesions can cause long-lasting, chronic abdominal pain and can also lead to infertility and bowel obstruction.

9. Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition in which small, pouch-like sacs that form in the wall of the intestine become infected or inflamed. The symptoms of diverticulitis can be severe and may include fever, chills, abdominal pain, and cramping.

10. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed, causing severe pain in the upper abdomen that may worsen after eating. Pancreatitis can be caused by gallstones, high levels of alcohol consumption, and other factors.

Final Thoughts

Recurring or persistent abdominal pain is a cause for concern, as it could indicate an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

By discussing your symptoms with your doctor and undergoing a thorough evaluation, you can determine the cause of your deceptive abdominal pain and receive appropriate treatment for it. If you’re experiencing abdominal pain that persists for a long time, get in touch with your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.