Gastroenterology Pearland, Houston, Bay City, Lake Jackson
Conditions
Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, yet determining its cause can be complex given the many organs and structures in the abdomen. At Your GI Center, our board-certified gastroenterologists have extensive experience evaluating abdominal pain and identifying its underlying causes. We provide comprehensive diagnostic services and effective treatment at three convenient Southeast Texas locations in Houston, Bay City, and Lake Jackson. Our goal is to identify why you’re experiencing pain and develop a treatment plan that provides lasting relief.
The abdomen contains many organs including the stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and reproductive organs. Pain can originate from any of these structures or from the abdominal wall itself. Abdominal pain varies widely in character, location, severity, and duration, and these characteristics provide important clues about the underlying cause.
Abdominal pain can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (lasting three months or longer). It may be constant or intermittent, sharp or dull, localized to one area or diffuse throughout the abdomen. Some abdominal pain requires urgent evaluation, while other cases benefit from systematic diagnostic evaluation to identify the cause.
The location of abdominal pain often provides clues about its source:
May indicate gallbladder disease, liver problems, or right kidney issues
Often related to stomach, duodenum, or pancreas. Common in acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or gastritis
May suggest stomach, spleen, pancreas, or left kidney problems
May indicate appendicitis, Crohn’s disease, or ovarian issues in women
Often related to bladder, uterus, or lower colon
May suggest diverticulitis, colitis, or ovarian issues in women
May indicate early appendicitis, small bowel disorders, or vascular issues
May suggest peritonitis, gastroenteritis, or irritable bowel syndrome
Many abdominal pain cases have gastrointestinal origins:
Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus causes burning pain in the upper abdomen and chest. Pain often worsens after meals or when lying down.
Open sores in the stomach or duodenum lining cause burning or gnawing pain in the upper central abdomen. Pain may improve or worsen with eating depending on ulcer location.
Inflammation of the stomach lining causes upper abdominal pain, often with nausea. May result from infection, medications, or excessive alcohol.
This functional disorder causes cramping abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits. Pain typically improves with bowel movements.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause chronic inflammation, leading to persistent or recurrent abdominal pain, often with diarrhea and bleeding.
Inflammation of diverticula (pouches in the colon wall) typically causes left lower abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.
Infrequent or difficult bowel movements can cause cramping, bloating, and discomfort throughout the abdomen.
Stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts cause severe, steady pain in the upper right abdomen, often radiating to the back or right shoulder.
Inflammation of the pancreas causes severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back, often with nausea and vomiting.
Blockage in the intestines causes severe cramping pain, bloating, inability to pass gas or stool, and vomiting.
Immune reaction to gluten damages the small intestine, causing abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption.
Lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, or other food sensitivities can cause cramping pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming trigger foods.
Identifying the cause of abdominal pain requires systematic evaluation:
We discuss your pain characteristics (location, quality, timing, severity), associated symptoms, medical history, medications, surgeries, family history, diet, and lifestyle factors. Understanding your complete story often provides crucial diagnostic clues.
We perform thorough abdominal examination, checking for tenderness, masses, organ enlargement, or other abnormalities. We assess the entire abdomen systematically to identify pain patterns.
Blood tests evaluate for infection, inflammation, liver function, kidney function, pancreatic enzymes, anemia, and other abnormalities. Stool tests may check for blood, infection, or inflammation. Urine tests can identify urinary tract or kidney issues.
Depending on suspected causes, we may recommend:- Breath tests for lactose intolerance or bacterial overgrowth – Celiac disease antibody testing – Food allergy or sensitivity testing – Gastric emptying studies – Motility studies
The location of abdominal pain often provides clues about its source:
When surgical intervention is needed (appendicitis, gallbladder removal, bowel
obstruction, etc.), we coordinate with experienced surgeons to ensure you receive
appropriate care.
For chronic abdominal pain, we take a comprehensive approach:
Why Choose
Our board-certified physicians have evaluated thousands of patients with abdominal pain and have the expertise to identify even complex or uncommon causes.
We offer the full range of diagnostic tools, from basic laboratory testing through advanced endoscopic procedures, all coordinated through our practice.
We don’t simply treat symptoms—we investigate thoroughly to identify the underlying cause of your pain so we can provide targeted, effective treatment.
We understand that chronic abdominal pain affects your quality of life, work, and daily activities. We listen carefully to your concerns and develop treatment plans that fit your individual circumstances.
If you’re experiencing persistent or recurrent abdominal pain, don’t continue to suffer without answers. Our experienced gastroenterologists can help identify the cause and develop an effective treatment plan.
To schedule your appointment, call 1-888-292-0010 or contact your preferred location: