Stomach pain can be uncomfortable and frustrating. It can come on suddenly and without warning, leaving you wondering what caused it.

While some causes of stomach pain may be mild and go away on their own, others can be serious and require medical attention. In this article, we will explore five causes of sudden stomach pain that should not be ignored.

1. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a small, thin tube in the lower right side of the abdomen.

When the appendix becomes inflamed, it can cause sudden and severe pain in the lower right side of the abdomen. Other symptoms of appendicitis may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever.

2. Gallstones

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, which is a small organ that stores bile. When gallstones block the bile duct, they can cause sudden and severe pain in the upper right side of the abdomen.

Other symptoms of gallstones may include nausea, vomiting, and fever.

3. Kidney stones

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys.

When kidney stones pass through the ureter, which is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, they can cause sudden and severe pain in the lower back, side, or groin area. Other symptoms of kidney stones may include nausea, vomiting, and a frequent need to urinate.

4. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the pancreas, which is a gland located behind the stomach. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it can cause sudden and severe pain in the middle or upper abdomen.

Other symptoms of pancreatitis may include nausea, vomiting, fever, and a rapid heartbeat.

5. Ulcers

Ulcers are sores that form in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. When ulcers become inflamed, they can cause sudden and severe pain in the upper abdomen. Other symptoms of ulcers may include nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite.

When to see a doctor

If you experience sudden and severe stomach pain, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring the pain can lead to serious complications and a delay in treatment can make the condition worse.

Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms along with stomach pain, you should seek medical attention:.

Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Chest pain or pressure
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
High fever (above 101°F)

In conclusion

Sudden stomach pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, and while some may be mild and go away on their own, others can be serious and require medical attention.

If you experience sudden and severe stomach pain, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.