“Why Does My Side Hurt?” Understanding Abdominal Pain and When to Seek Emergency Help
At First Priority ER, we see abdominal pain every day. Sometimes it’s minor and passes quickly, but other times it’s the body’s way of sounding the alarm. From cramping to sharp, stabbing pain, abdominal discomfort can have many causes and knowing when to get help can protect your health.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why does my side hurt?” here’s what you should know about the warning signs, possible causes, and when it’s time to visit the ER.
What is Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain refers to discomfort between the chest and pelvis. It may feel like pressure, cramping, or severe sharp pain. While mild pain often resolves on its own, persistent or intense pain can be a sign of something more serious that requires emergency care.
7 Warning Signs You Should Visit the ER
1. Severe or Unbearable Pain
If the pain is so strong you can’t focus, move, or catch your breath, it’s a red flag. Conditions like appendicitis or a perforated ulcer need immediate attention. Don’t wait to see if it passes come in right away.
2. Pain with Fever, Vomiting, or Chills
Abdominal pain combined with fever, vomiting, or chills may point to infection or inflammation, such as appendicitis or pancreatitis. If you can’t keep fluids down, dehydration is a risk. Black or tarry stools or blood in vomit should never be ignored these may signal internal bleeding.
3. Pain That Won’t Go Away
Pay attention to how long the pain lasts. Acute pain comes on suddenly, while chronic pain lingers for weeks. If pain continues for more than six hours without relief, it’s time to get checked out.
4. Where the Pain Is Located
The location of your pain gives important clues:
- Lower right side: possible appendicitis
- Upper right side: gallbladder problems
- Generalized cramping: GI infections or irritable bowel issues
Take note of when the pain starts, what it feels like, and if movement or pressure makes it worse this helps doctors pinpoint the cause.
5. Pain That Interrupts Daily Life
If stomach pain keeps you from working, sleeping, or enjoying everyday life, it deserves medical attention. Chronic pain can also take a toll on your mental health if left untreated.
6. Your Medical History
Your health background matters. People with conditions like diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease may face complications when abdominal pain occurs. Previous surgeries can also increase the risk of bowel obstructions or adhesions.
7. Children and Older Adults
Stomach pain in children or seniors is always serious. Kids may not be able to explain what they’re feeling, so look for warning signs like fever, vomiting, or unusual behavior. In older adults, abdominal pain may be more subtle but tied to higher-risk conditions.
Common Causes of Abdominal Pain
- Appendicitis: Pain that begins near the belly button and shifts to the lower right side.
- Gallbladder disease: Upper right abdominal pain, often after eating fatty meals.
- Pancreatitis: Severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back.
- GI infections: Diarrhea, cramping, nausea.
- Constipation or bowel obstruction: Cramping, bloating, and inability to pass stool or gas.
What To Do If You Have Abdominal Pain
- Monitor your symptoms: track the pain’s intensity, location, and duration.
- Stay hydrated: sip clear fluids if you can.
- Don’t wait it out: if the pain is severe, comes with fever or vomiting, or lasts longer than six hours, head to the ER.
When to Visit First Priority ER
At First Priority ER, your health is our priority. We’re here 24/7 with board-certified emergency physicians, advanced diagnostic tools, and fast treatment. Whether it’s sudden severe pain or ongoing discomfort that’s getting worse, our team is ready to provide the care you need.
Don’t ignore stomach pain visit one of our freestanding ER locations in New Braunfels, Cibolo, or the surrounding areas and let us help you feel better, faster.
FAQs
What should I do if my stomach pain is unbearable?
Go to the ER immediately especially if it comes with fever, vomiting, or blood in stool/vomit.
How do I know if my pain is serious?
If it interferes with daily activities, keeps getting worse, or lasts more than six hours, it’s serious.
Are some people more at risk?
Yes children, older adults, and anyone with chronic health conditions should be extra cautious.
What are the most common causes?
Appendicitis, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, and GI infections are among the most frequent causes.
Why does my medical history matter?
It helps doctors connect your current symptoms with past conditions or surgeries for faster, more accurate treatment.
👉 If you’re experiencing severe or unexplained abdominal pain, don’t wait. Visit First Priority ER we’re open 24/7, ready to give you answers and relief when you need it most.
