1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

When Abdominal Pain Is Cause for Concern

Abdominal pain is common, but it can feel scary. As many as 10% of visits to the emergency room are due to abdominal pain. Usually, abdominal pain resolves on its own when food poisoning, cramps, or the virus passes.

Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare

When Abdominal Pain Is Cause for Concern – A Friendly Houston Guide from Gastrodoxs

Belly pain is something almost everyone feels at some point. Usually, it’s mild—maybe from gas or something you ate. But sometimes, that ache or cramp is your body’s way of saying something more serious is going on.
At Gastrodoxs in Houston, we help patients understand what’s normal and what needs medical care. With expert insight from Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a leading GI doctor in Houston, this guide breaks it down in a simple, clear way.

1. What Is Abdominal Pain?

Abdominal pain can feel sharp, dull, burning, or crampy. It may last a few minutes or hours—or it may come and go. The pain can be high near your ribs or low near your pelvis.

“Most stomach pain is harmless and goes away quickly,” says Dr. Pothuri. “But when it lingers or gets worse, it’s time to pay attention.”

2. Common Causes of Mild Belly Pain

Here are a few common, non-serious causes:

If the pain goes away with rest or simple remedies, it’s usually nothing to worry about. But if you’re unsure, keep reading.

3. Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore

Some symptoms should never be brushed off. Dr. Pothuri recommends calling a doctor if you notice:

“If your belly pain is joined by any of these symptoms, don’t wait. See a Houston GI specialist right away,” says Dr. Pothuri.

4. What Type of Pain Means What?

Pain Type Location Possible Cause
Sharp and sudden Lower right side Could be appendicitis
Cramping Lower belly IBS or menstrual pain
Burning Upper belly Acid reflux or ulcer
Dull aching Belly button area Indigestion or early stomach bug
Wavelike (colicky) Side of abdomen (flanks) Kidney stones or gallbladder issues

5. When to Call a Houston GI Specialist

Here’s when to contact GastroDoxs or visit urgent care:

The earlier you get checked, the sooner you’ll feel better—and avoid serious problems.

6. How We Find the Cause at GastroDoxs

Our step-by-step approach ensures you get answers:

7. What Treatments Might Help?

Your plan depends on the cause, but may include:

“Small changes lead to big results,” says Dr. Pothuri. “We build a plan that fits your life.”

8. How to Prevent Belly Pain in the Future

Conclusion

Abdominal pain is common, but it’s important to know when it needs a closer look. If you’re in Houston and have any red flag symptoms, Gastrodoxs is here to help.
Book an appointment today and get expert care, close to home.

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is belly pain an emergency?

If it’s sharp, comes with a fever or bleeding, or lasts over 2 days, get help.

2. Can stress cause belly pain?

Yes. Stress can trigger IBS, heartburn, or indigestion.

3. How long should stomach pain last before I worry?

More than 48 hours, or if it comes back often, see a doctor.

4. Is sharp pain always bad?

Not always. Gas or muscle strain can feel sharp but isn’t dangerous.

5. Can dehydration hurt my stomach?

Yes. It can cause cramping or constipation.

6. What foods might make it worse?

Fatty, spicy, or greasy foods, caffeine, and dairy for some people.

7. Should I see a GI doctor for this?

Yes—if it’s chronic, includes red flags, or runs in your family.

8. What can I try at home?

Drink fluids, rest, and use mild remedies like antacids or simethicone.

9. Is bloating with belly pain a sign of IBS?

It could be. IBS often causes bloating, cramps, and bathroom changes.

10. Could this be heart-related?

If there’s chest pain or pressure, jaw or arm pain, or breathlessness—go to the ER.

Related Blogs