Check Your Pain Location: Warning Signs Your Body Is Telling You
“Abdominal pain” is one of the most common symptoms that many people tend to overlook, assuming it will simply go away on its own. However, the abdomen contains many vital organs, and pain in different locations may be a warning sign indicating an underlying health problem.
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Center
Thonburi Thawiwatthana Hospital
Invites you to explore the 9 abdominal pain locations to help assess potential health risks.
9 Abdominal Pain Locations and What They May Indicate
The abdomen can be divided into 9 main regions, with each area associated with different internal organs and possible conditions.
Gallstones / Cholecystitis
Often causes severe, intermittent pain that may radiate to the right shoulder, especially after eating fatty foods.
Hepatitis
May cause discomfort, abdominal fullness, and may be accompanied by jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Gastritis / Acid Reflux
May cause indigestion, burning sensation in the chest, acid reflux, or pain when hungry or after meals.
Pancreatitis
Causes sudden, severe pain that may radiate through to the back, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Pain in this area may be related to abnormalities of the spleen, such as an enlarged spleen, or may be associated with gastritis or stomach conditions.
Kidney Stones / Pyelonephritis
May cause cramping pain that radiates to the groin or thigh, along with painful urination or cloudy/bloody urine.
Intestinal Inflammation
May cause cramping abdominal pain with changes in bowel movements.
Appendicitis (Early Stage)
Often begins as a dull pain around the belly button before moving to the lower right abdomen with increasing severity.
Enteritis / Diarrhea
May cause cramping pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
Similar to right flank pain, this area may indicate kidney-related conditions such as kidney stones, pyelonephritis, or disorders affecting the colon.
Appendicitis
Causes severe pain, tenderness when pressed, and worsening pain with movement. If untreated, a ruptured appendix can become life-threatening.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease / Ovarian Cyst (in women)
May cause lower abdominal discomfort and may be associated with abnormal vaginal discharge.
Cystitis (Bladder Infection)
Causes lower abdominal discomfort, frequent urination, and burning sensation while urinating.
Menstrual Pain / Uterine Conditions (in women)
May cause cramping pain during menstruation. Severe pain may be associated with conditions such as endometriosis.
Diverticulitis
May cause persistent cramping pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.
Left Ovary or Fallopian Tube Conditions (in women)
Similar to symptoms that may occur in the right lower abdomen.
Warning Signs: When You Should Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If abdominal pain occurs with any of the following symptoms, do not self-medicate. Seek medical attention promptly:
Sudden, severe abdominal pain or unbearable pain
High fever or chills
Vomiting blood, bloody stools, or black stools
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
A palpable lump or mass in the abdomen
Unexplained rapid weight loss
Don’t Let Pain Become Something You Simply Ignore
Abdominal pain may be caused by something minor, such as indigestion, but it can also be an early warning sign of a more serious underlying condition. Evaluation by a specialist, combined with advanced medical technology, helps doctors accurately identify the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
If you or your loved ones experience chronic abdominal pain or have concerns about gastrointestinal or liver health, you can consult with the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Center at Thonburi Thawiwatthana Hospital. Our team is ready to provide expert advice, diagnosis, and care to help you return to better health and enjoy a better quality of life.
For more information or appointments: Gastroenterology and Hepatology Center
