Stomach pain, or abdominal pain, can be a symptom of various medical conditions, which makes it challenging to accurately diagnose the underlying cause. While most stomach aches resolve on their own, persistent pain may indicate a serious health issue requiring medical intervention; in some cases, it could even be an emergency. When it comes to abdominal pain treatment in Gurgaon, Artemis Hospitals stands out as a trusted healthcare provider. Our team of skilled gastroenterologists helps patients manage pain through accurate diagnosis of the cause and personalised treatment plans.
When to Consult a Doctor for Stomach Pain?
While most cases of abdominal pain resolve naturally without requiring medical intervention, it is important to consult a doctor in the following scenarios:
Severe or Persistent Pain: If the pain lasts for several hours or days, it could be due to a serious condition such as appendicitis, ulcers, or an infection.
Pain Accompanied by Other Symptoms: If stomach pain is accompanied with other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in urine, stool or vomit.
Pain After Eating: If the pain occurs after eating, it may be related to conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, or peptic ulcers.
Difficulty Breathing or Chest Pain: If the symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, it could be due to a heart attack. Consult a doctor immediately.
Pain Radiating to Other Areas: Stomach pain that radiates to the back, shoulder, or chest may indicate conditions such as pancreatitis or gallbladder disease.
Chronic or Recurring Pain: If stomach pain becomes chronic or occurs frequently, it may be a sign of an underlying digestive disorder.
Consulting a doctor early on helps with accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, preventing complications and improving outcomes. If you experience any of the above signs, it's crucial to seek medical advice to ensure proper care.
Risk Factors for Stomach Pain
While the causes of stomach pain are diverse, certain factors can elevate an individual’s risk. By identifying these risk factors for stomach pain, you can take preventive measures, under the guidance of your doctor, to avoid discomfort or more severe conditions:
Family history: Genetic predispositions to stomach-related conditions within the family.
Unhealthy eating habits: Consuming processed and high-fat, sodium-rich, or sugary food items in excess.
Obesity: Being overweight can put the digestive system under stress.
Lifestyle factors: Excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco, combined with a lack of exercise and sleep.
Medications: Painkillers, antibiotics, and other prescription drugs can sometimes irritate the stomach.
Medical procedures: Previous surgery or radiotherapy in the stomach region.
Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal changes, particularly in women, can contribute to stomach pain.
Causes of Stomach Pain Treated at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon
Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon offers comprehensive care for various types of stomach pain, addressing a wide range of conditions. These include but are not limited to:
Diarrhea and Constipation: Chronic digestive issues leading to irregular bowel movements and discomfort.
Colitis: Inflammation of the colon, causing abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic disorder affecting the large intestine, causing abdominal pain, cramping, and irregular bowel movements.
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction, often accompanied by abdominal pain.
Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, often resulting in sharp abdominal pain and requiring surgical treatment.
Gastroenteritis: A viral infection causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps.
Peptic Ulcers: Open sores in the lining of the stomach or upper intestine, leading to burning stomach pain.
Menstrual Cramps and Ovulation: Hormonal changes causing abdominal pain during or between menstrual cycles.
Food Allergies or Intolerances: Adverse reactions to certain foods, leading to bloating, cramps, or discomfort.
Kidney Stones and Gallstones: Hard deposits in the kidneys or gallbladder cause severe pain in the abdomen.
Hernia: A condition where an organ pushes through the muscle wall, causing pain in the affected area.
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): A chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing discomfort.
Endometriosis: A disorder where tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and discomfort.
Bowel Obstruction: A blockage in the intestines, causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating.
Abdominal Injuries: Physical trauma to the abdomen, leading to pain and potential internal damage.
Stress and Anxiety-related Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Emotional distress can trigger abdominal pain or discomfort.
Diverticulitis: Inflammation of small pouches in the colon, causing pain and digestive issues.
Gastrointestinal Cancer: Cancers affecting the digestive tract, including the stomach, esophagus, and colon.
Stomach Pain Complications Treated at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon
Stomach pain can be a symptom of various gastrointestinal conditions, some of which may lead to serious complications if not promptly addressed. At Artemis Hospitals, our specialists are equipped to diagnose and manage these conditions effectively. Potential complications of stomach pain treated at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon include but are not limited to:
Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Conditions like ulcers or esophageal varices can result in bleeding, leading to anemia and requiring immediate medical attention.
Perforation of the Gastrointestinal Tract: A hole in the stomach or intestinal wall can cause contents to leak into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis, a life-threatening infection.
Obstruction of the Intestines: Blockages can prevent the passage of food and waste, causing severe pain, vomiting, and potential tissue death.
Chronic Inflammation: Persistent conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to long-term damage to the digestive tract, increasing the risk of colon cancer.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and, if untreated, may lead to organ failure.
Liver Complications: Diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis can result in liver failure, jaundice, and bleeding disorders.
Artemis Hospitals offers comprehensive diagnostic services, including endoscopic procedures, to accurately identify the underlying cause of pain and tailor appropriate treatment plans.
Stomach Pain Treatment at Artemis Hospitals
Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, one of the best hospitals for stomach pain in the National Capital Region (NCR), is equipped to offer accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plans addressing diverse underlying causes of stomach pain. Here’s an overview of the treatment process:
1. Diagnosis of Stomach Pain
Accurate diagnosis is the first step in determining the cause of stomach pain and providing the appropriate treatment. At Artemis Hospitals, our specialists follow a comprehensive diagnostic approach, combining advanced imaging, laboratory tests, and endoscopic procedures to identify the cause of the discomfort. The diagnostic process includes:
Initial Assessment
Symptom Evaluation: A doctor evaluates the symptoms reported by patients.
Medical History Evaluation: The patient is asked their medical history, any current medications, and lifestyle habits.
Physical Checkup: Doctor assesses visible symptoms, examining the belly area for pain, tenderness, or swelling.
After the initial assessment, our gastroenterologists perform thorough diagnosis through various tests. Here are some of the diagnostic tests available for stomach pain at Artemis Hospitals:
Laboratory Tests
Diagnosing the cause of stomach pain may involve a number of laboratory tests such as:
Blood Tests: Blood tests are commonly used to detect infections, inflammation, anemia, as well as liver and kidney issues. A complete blood count (CBC), for instance, can help detect infection or anemia, while liver function tests help assess any liver-related issues.
Stool Tests: Stool samples may be analysed to check for infections, parasites, or blood that could indicate gastrointestinal bleeding or conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or bacterial infections.
Urine Tests: Analyses urine to detect infections, kidney problems, or metabolic conditions contributing to stomach pain.
Helicobacter Pylori Test: This test detects the presence of H. pylori, a bacterium that can cause ulcers in the stomach lining and contribute to chronic gastritis. Testing can be done through blood, stool, or breath tests.
Amylase and Lipase Levels: Amylase and lipase are enzymes related to the pancreas, and their elevated levels can indicate pancreatic issues, such as pancreatitis.
Electrolyte Tests: If diarrhea or vomiting is involved, electrolyte imbalance can be a concern. Blood tests can be used to check electrolyte levels to help assess dehydration and its severity.
Allergy Tests: Used to identify specific allergens that may be causing stomach pain. These tests typically involve either skin prick tests or blood tests to detect the immune system's reaction to allergens such as foods, pollen, or dust.
Imaging Tests
In addition to lab tests, diagnosing the cause of stomach pain may also require various imaging tests and studies such as:
X-rays: Used to detect conditions such as bowel obstructions, perforations, or gastrointestinal blockages. They can provide initial insights into abnormalities such as gas buildup, tumors, or foreign objects in the digestive tract.
Abdominal Ultrasound: A non-invasive procedure used to assess organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys. It can help diagnose conditions such as gallstones, liver disease, and abdominal masses.
CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen, which helps identify conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, or abdominal tumors. It is particularly useful for detecting acute abdominal issues that need immediate attention.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans provide detailed images of soft tissues and organs, helping identify issues such as gastrointestinal cancers, liver diseases, or pancreatic conditions.
Endoscopic Diagnostic Procedures
To ensure accurate diagnosis, a prerequisite for effective treatment planning, our specialists may also use advanced endoscopic diagnostic procedures such as:
Gastroscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy): This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to visualise and detect ulcers, inflammation, tumors, or infections. It is commonly used for diagnosing conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, or stomach cancers.
Colonoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, or inflammation. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and investigate symptoms such as unexplained bleeding or chronic diarrhea.
Sigmoidoscopy: This is a similar procedure to colonoscopy but focuses on the sigmoid colon and rectum, used to diagnose conditions such as colitis, diverticulosis, and other lower gastrointestinal issues. It is also often used in cases involving rectal bleeding.
Capsule Endoscopy: This involves swallowing a small capsule containing a camera that captures images of the small intestine. It is particularly helpful for diagnosing conditions such as Crohn’s disease, small bowel bleeding, and other obscure gastrointestinal disorders.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): A flexible tube with a small ultrasound probe is inserted through the mouth or rectum, to diagnose conditions such as pancreatic diseases, gastrointestinal cancers, and bile duct blockages. It is often used for detecting abnormalities when the results of other imaging techniques are inconclusive.
Biopsy: A medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from an abnormal/diseased area, to be examined under a microscope. It is commonly performed during endoscopic procedures such as gastroscopy or colonoscopy to diagnose conditions such as cancer, infections, or inflammatory diseases.
Manometry Studies
These tests measure the pressure and motility of the esophagus and intestines, and are used to diagnose esophageal motility disorders, achalasia, and other gastrointestinal motility problems that can cause discomfort.
With this comprehensive diagnostic approach, Artemis Hospitals ensures that each patient receives a precise and timely diagnosis, allowing for the formulation of an effective treatment plan tailored to their specific condition.
Treatment of Stomach Pain
Depending on the diagnosis, the patient’s age and health, and other factors, our specialists create a personalised treatment plan. As one of the best hospitals for stomach pain in NCR, Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon provides comprehensive abdominal pain treatment options, from medications to advanced surgical procedures, ensuring the best possible outcomes. The treatment may include:
Medications
Various types of medications may be prescribed based on the cause of abdominal pain and associated factors. These include:
Painkillers (Analgesics): For general pain relief and inflammation-related pain; but should be avoided in certain conditions such as ulcers.
Antacids: To help neutralise stomach acid and relieve symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn.
Antidiarrheals: For diarrhoea-related abdominal discomfort.
Antigas Medications: To help relieve gas and bloating.
Antibiotics: For infections such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) that cause peptic ulcers.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): To reduce stomach acid production, often used for GERD, ulcers, and acid reflux.
Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonists (H2 Blockers): To reduce stomach acid production, used for conditions like heartburn or ulcers.
Antispasmodics: To relieve spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, which can help with cramping and bloating.
Laxatives: For constipation-induced stomach pain.
IBS Medications: For Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), used to relieve constipation and associated pain.
Prokinetic Agents: To speed up gastric emptying, often used for conditions like gastroparesis.
Bile Acid Sequestrants: To treat diarrhoea caused by excess bile acids in the intestines.
Endoscopic and Surgical Procedures
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, we are equipped to offer a comprehensive range of advanced treatments for stomach pain, utilizing both non-surgical and surgical procedures tailored to each patient's condition. Our approach ensures the best possible care with a focus on minimally invasive techniques for quicker recovery and minimal disruption to daily life. Here's quick overview of the procedures carried out at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon:
Endoscopic Procedures
Endoscopic Polypectomy: Used to remove polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, which may be causing abdominal pain. Removing these growths reduces the risk of developing cancer, and alleviates the pain caused by obstruction or irritation.
Stent Placement: An endoscopic procedure used to open blockages or narrowing in areas in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, relieving pain and improving gastrointestinal function, especially in conditions such as strictures or tumors.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Used to treat conditions such as pancreatic cancer, bile duct obstructions, or cysts. This procedure is beneficial for treating issues that may be causing abdominal pain, helping patients avoid an invasive surgery.
Surgical Procedures
Minimally-Invasive Surgery: Our specialists are trained and experienced in using the latest minimally-invasive laparoscopic techniques to perform a range of abdominal surgeries for conditions such as gallstones, appendicitis, and Crohn’s disease. The minimally-invasive procedures performed by our specialists include:
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal): This is the most common surgery to treat gallstones or other gallbladder-related issues. Small incisions are made, which reduces recovery time and scarring compared to open surgery.
Laparoscopic Appendectomy: Performed to remove the appendix in cases of appendicitis. This minimally invasive procedure helps reduce pain and the risk of complications such as rupture.
Laparoscopic Bowel Resection: Used for conditions such as Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, or colorectal cancer, this surgery involves removing a portion of the intestines.
Laparoscopic Anti-Reflux Surgery (Fundoplication): This surgery is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by reinforcing the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent acid reflux.
Laparoscopic Gastrectomy: A procedure where part or all of the stomach is removed, often used to treat life-threatening conditions such as stomach cancer, severe ulcers, or obesity.
Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass or Stomach Stapling: These weight loss surgeries reduce the size of the stomach, helping patients with obesity lose weight and alleviate related conditions like chronic heartburn or digestive issues.
Open Surgery: In addition to minimally-invasive procedures, our specialists have extensive experience in performing an array of open surgeries, including but not limited to:
Gastrectomy (Stomach Removal): Partial or total removal of the stomach to treat conditions such as cancer, severe peptic ulcers, or benign tumors. It may be necessary when other treatments fail or when cancer has spread.
Bowel Resection (Open Surgery): Removal of a section of the small or large intestine, typically performed for conditions such as Crohn’s disease, colorectal cancer, or bowel obstructions.
Colectomy (Colon Removal): The removal of part or all of the colon, often due to cancer, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A colostomy or ileostomy may be created to allow waste to exit the body if needed.
Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy): A complex surgery for pancreatic cancer where part of the pancreas, duodenum, gallbladder, and bile duct are removed, to remove cancerous tissues and restore digestive function.
Liver Resection: Removal of part of the liver to treat localized liver cancer or benign tumors. The goal is to preserve healthy liver tissue while removing the affected area to improve function.
Vagotomy: This procedure involves cutting part of the vagus nerve to reduce acid production in the stomach. Commonly used to treat severe or recurrent peptic ulcers that don't respond to medication.
Pyloroplasty: Involves surgical enlargement of the pyloric sphincter (the opening between the stomach and small intestine) to treat gastric outlet obstruction. This procedure helps improve stomach emptying and relieves symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Repair of Perforated Ulcers: This surgery is performed to repair holes in the stomach or duodenum caused by peptic ulcers. It prevents the spread of infection (peritonitis) and restores stomach integrity.
Spleen Removal (Splenectomy): In cases of certain gastric cancers or blood disorders, the spleen may need to be removed. This is often performed when the cancer or disease has affected the spleen's function or caused bleeding.
Gastrostomy (PEG Tube Insertion): Involves the placement of a feeding tube through the abdomen directly into the stomach for long-term nutritional support, used when patients cannot eat orally due to swallowing difficulties.
Esophagectomy: Removal of part or all of the esophagus, typically performed for esophageal cancer. This surgery involves reconstructing the esophagus using other parts of the digestive tract to restore normal swallowing function.
Colostomy and Ileostomy: These procedures involve creating an opening in the abdomen to divert waste if the colon or rectum has been removed or needs to be bypassed due to disease or injury.
Stent Placement: Used to open up blocked bile ducts or other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, often in patients with cancer or strictures.
Gastric Bypass : A weight-loss surgery where the stomach is made smaller, and the small intestine is rerouted. This procedure limits food intake, and is commonly performed in patients with severe obesity.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Tube Placement: Used for patients with swallowing difficulties, a PEG tube is inserted through the abdomen to provide nutrition directly into the stomach.
Surgeries are typically performed for more complex or advanced conditions and aim to alleviate symptoms, treat diseases, and improve the patient's quality of life. At Artemis Hospitals, these surgeries are carried out with the utmost care, utilizing the latest techniques to ensure the best outcomes for patients.
Our Approach to Treating Advanced Disorders
Hernia and Appendicitis: Minimally invasive surgeries using advanced technologies such as the Da Vinci robotic surgical system to repair hernia and remove an inflamed appendix.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Endoscopic interventions to stop bleeding and treat ulcers or other causes of bleeding
Cancer: Surgical resection or tumour removal and Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy to shrink tumours or treat cancer.
Severe Ulcers: Surgical procedures such as vagotomy or pyloroplasty for complications related to peptic ulcers
Laparoscopy: For diagnosing and treating abdominal conditions with small incisions, offering shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
Bariatric Surgery: For weight-related stomach pain, including conditions such as obesity-induced reflux or gastric issues, weight-loss surgeries may be recommended.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Stomach Pain Treatment?
Here’s why Artemis Hospitals is the ideal choice for stomach pain treatment:
Eminent Doctors: Artemis Hospitals boasts a team of some of the best gastroenterologists in India with years of experience in the field. They combine their expertise with compassion to help patients find relief.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Artemis Hospitals is equipped with the latest in healthcare technology to support timely and accurate diagnosis of stomach pain, and ensure every patient receives the best possible treatment and care.
Wide Range of Treatment Options: Patients at Artemis Hospital get access to a range of treatment options, including medications, medical procedures, and lifestyle counselling, addressing the underlying condition causing pain.
Book an Appointment with a Specialist at Artemis Hospitals Today
Don’t let stomach pain disrupt your life. To book a consultation with a gastro specialist at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, call us at +91-124-451-1111, WhatsApp at +91-95992-85476, or fill out our appointment form. Alternatively, you can book an appointment by registering on our Online Patient Portal or downloading and registering on our Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.