Abdominal Pain in Adults

Common Causes

• Indigestion or gas — Eating large meals or certain foods might trap gas or irritate the stomach lining in adults.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — IBS may cause cramping and bloating due to changes in bowel habits, common in working-age adults.
• Appendicitis — Inflammation of the appendix might start as dull pain that worsens, often in younger adults.
• Gallstones — Stones in the gallbladder could block ducts after fatty meals, leading to sharp upper pain.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI) — Bacteria in the bladder or kidneys may cause lower belly discomfort, more common in women.

Learn More

For a full overview of this symptom, including home remedies and when to see a doctor, read our complete guide on Abdominal Pain.