Pulling pain in the abdomen

One of the most common pain symptoms is a pulling pain in the abdomen. Let's look at its causes, risk factors, types, and treatment and prevention methods.

Unpleasant sensations arising in the abdominal cavity can be very different. Since there are many organs located in the abdominal area: stomach, liver, pancreas, intestines, gallbladder. It should not be excluded that discomfort is caused by problems with the organs of the genitourinary system.

Dangerous Problems:

• Appendicitis - inflammation of the appendix in the initial stages causes pulling and aching sensations, which quickly take an acute form. Pathology is complemented by fever, nausea and vomiting, abdominal bloating, stool disorders.
• Kidney concretions - small stones can pass through the urinary system asymptomatically, while larger formations get stuck in the ducts. This causes pain in the abdomen, groin, lower back. Some patients note attacks of nausea and vomiting, blood in the urine, painful urination.
• Diseases of the intestine - for example, ulcerative colitis runs with a pronounced inflammatory process, which is manifested by abdominal pain, flatulence, deterioration of general well-being.
• Kidney infections - pulling pains in the side of the abdomen, groin, lower back. Very often this condition is mistaken for problems with the urinary tract. The patient needs comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.
• Hernias - some types of hernias are accompanied by aching and pulling pain in the abdominal area. Discomfort increases with coughing, physical exertion.
• Irritable bowel syndrome and other pathologies on the part of GI organs.

Non-Hazardous Problems:

• Flatulence - bloating and increased gas formation develop due to improper digestion of food. Normally, unpleasant sensations go away on their own within a couple of hours. If the disorder lasts for several days to weeks, it may indicate serious illnesses that require medical attention.
• Indigestion - discomfort occurs in the lower abdomen due to indigestion. Unpleasant condition is supplemented by flatulence, heartburn, stool disorders.

Women's issues:

• Menstrual pain - pulling sensations make themselves known before and during menstruation. Many patients experience pain in the lumbar region, attacks of nausea.
• Ovarian cyst - if the neoplasm is large, it is manifested by aching pain in the abdominal area. Discomfort increases during sexual intercourse, with physical exertion, may be complemented by flatulence, menstrual irregularities.
• Endometriosis - occurs with pain in the lower abdomen and back. Pulling sensations are aggravated during menstruation, after urination, bowel emptying.
• Ectopic pregnancy - develops due to fertilization of an egg in one of the fallopian tubes, i.e. Outside the uterine cavity. It occurs with abdominal pain and other early signs of pregnancy (absence of menstruation, nausea, diarrhea, brownish vaginal discharge).

Men's issues:

• Inflammation of the pelvic organs is one of the causes of this problem, it is infections of the genital tract. The patient experiences unpleasant symptoms during sexual intercourse, when urinating.
• Groin hernia - this type of hernia is most often experienced by men. The disease is manifested by a small lump in the upper part of the thigh, but it causes pulling pain that radiates to the abdomen.
• Testicular torsion - discomfort in the epigastrium and lower abdomen, pain with urination, swelling of the scrotum, attacks of nausea and vomiting.

That is, there are many reasons for the appearance of an unpleasant symptom, some of them pass on their own, others require emergency medical attention.

Causes of the pulling pain in the abdomen

There are many reasons for the appearance of pulling pain sensations in the abdomen in both men and women. Let's consider the main ones and their common localization:

• Cholecystitis (in the right subcostal area) - aching sensations radiating to the lower back, under the shoulder blade and into the shoulder. There may be a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, vomiting. Discomfort is aggravated after eating fatty and spicy food, increased physical exertion. For relief, take antispasmodics or drugs based on digestive enzymes. [1]
• Acute pancreatitis (around the abdomen) - the pain goes to the lower back, there is vomiting and bad taste in the mouth, there may be an increase in blood pressure. The exacerbation comes after the consumption of spicy and fatty food. This pathology requires medical attention, as in particularly severe cases can cause pancreonecrosis. [2]
• Appendicitis (lower right side pain) - discomfort appears in the pancreatic region and gradually moves to the iliac region of the abdomen. It can intensify with physical activity. There is an elevated body temperature, nausea. [3]
• Food intoxication - pulling sensations develop a few hours after eating. Nausea and vomiting appear. For treatment, enterosorbents are indicated, and in particularly severe cases, gastric lavage is performed.
• Pain in women in the lower abdomen - arise due to hypothermia, gynecological diseases, spicy food, severe stress. Soreness can run with discharge from the genital tract and other pathological symptomatology. Such a condition requires medical attention.

In addition to the above reasons, unpleasant sensations can be provoked by overeating, exacerbation of chronic diseases and other factors.

Risk factors

The appearance of pulling pains in the abdomen can be caused by certain factors, consider them:

• Improper nutrition - the diet is dominated by fatty, fried, spicy food, a lot of fast food, red meat, sweets. Such a diet increases the risk of GI diseases and other pathologies of the digestive system. When overeating, the stomach does not produce enough gastric juice, so the food is not processed and is not normally digested.
• Stress - nervous experience and overstrain cause spasm of the capillaries of the stomach, which disrupts the secretion of mucus, which protects the mucous membrane. Gastric juice corrodes the mucosa and tissue of the organ, which can cause the formation of an ulcer. Also do not forget that stress negatively affects the state of microflora, causing dysbacteriosis.
• Abuse of carbonated drinks, coffee, alcohol - such drinking causes irritation of the gastric mucosa, possible heartburn, development of gastritis, ulcers.

Risk factors include the presence of endocrine diseases, age and gender (men over 50 have an increased risk of peptic ulcer and cholelithiasis), hereditary predisposition, excess weight, bad habits.

Pathogenesis

There are many disorders in which there are aching and pulling pains in the abdomen. Pathogenesis of painful condition may be associated with frequent stress, abuse of fatty and fried food, alcohol, bad habits or long-term drug therapy. Also do not exclude the presence of chronic diseases of the body, the exacerbation of which manifests such an unpleasant symptomatology.

Epidemiology

Most often, pulling sensations in the abdominal area are associated with food disorders. Discomfort occurs due to overeating, consumption of low-quality products, various diets. Soreness can be associated with inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract and exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Statistics show that in women, pain most often indicates gynecological diseases. This can be both endometriosis and ectopic pregnancy, which requires surgical intervention. That is why you should seek medical help if there is a pulling or any other sensations in the abdominal area.

Symptoms

Pulling pains in the abdomen are very often the first sign of serious diseases and pathologies that require comprehensive medical care. Thus, painfulness can be a symptom of tumor neoplasms that are life-threatening.

Benign masses of the GI organs account for about 5-10% of all neoplasms on the gastric wall. That is, malignant tumors account for up to 95%. The first are characterized by slow growth and a positive prognosis, but without timely diagnosis and treatment can take a dangerous form. In the category of benign include polyps, fibromas, lipomas, leiomyomas, angiomas, neuriomas. They are characterized by aching and pulling sensations in the epigastrium, which can occur with additional more serious symptoms.

Based on this, the appearance of periodic pulling sensations in the GI tract is a reason to seek medical help and undergo a comprehensive examination.

Forms

Painful sensations arising in the abdominal area are divided by the nature of manifestation and a number of other signs. Thus, in addition to pulling pains, there are aching, contraction-like, squeezing, stabbing, burning, sharp and other types of discomfort.

Conventionally, pulling sensations can be divided into two types:

• Functional pain - manifested over a long period of time. They are a peculiar reaction of the body to stress, nervous overstrain and other negative factors. That is, they are not associated with diseases of the body.
• Organic - are reactions of the body to a certain pathological process or disease.

In addition to the two types listed above, pulling symptoms can move to other parts of the body, differ in their intensity and onset.

Pulling pains in the lower abdomen

The appearance of aching sensations in the lower abdomen occurs due to the action of many causes and factors. It can be bloating due to increased gas formation in the intestines, overeating, intoxication.

In women, painfulness is associated with the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes due to pregnancy and due to the growing volume of the uterus. Also do not exclude the presence of diseases such as endometriosis, endometritis, inflammatory processes.

If the pulling pains quickly take an acute form, it can indicate pregnancy abnormalities, appendicitis, intestinal infections, cholecystitis, pyelonephritis, inflammation of the bladder, various neoplasms.

In any case, the appearance of discomfort is a reason to contact the attending physician. After a comprehensive examination, the doctor will determine the cause of the disorder, prescribe treatment and give preventive recommendations.

Pulling pains in the abdomen on the right side

In the abdominal region there are digestive organs, in the right part there is a part of the colon and ovary in women. The appearance of pulling sensations can be due to both physiological and pathological reasons.

• Stomach upset - soreness develops with indigestion and poor digestion of food. It may be accompanied by flatulence, nausea, heartburn and other unpleasant symptoms.
• Appendicitis - inflammation of the appendix is manifested by pain in the right lower abdomen. Gradually unpleasant sensations increase, supplemented by fever, bloating, nausea and vomiting, stool disorders.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Concretions in the kidneys or bladder.
• Kidney infection - manifested by aching sensations in the lower back, groin and side. It occurs with attacks of nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, fever.
• Ovarian cyst - large cysts on the appendages are manifested by aching, and in some cases, sharp painful sensations. Pathology occurs with frequent urges to urinate, pain during sexual intercourse.
• Testicular torsion - occurs with abdominal pain, discomfort when urinating, nausea and vomiting, and swelling of the scrotum.

But most often unpleasant symptomatology occurs due to increased gas formation, indigestion, peculiarities of the menstrual cycle. If the disorder persists for a long period of time, it is necessary to seek medical help.

Pulling pain in the right side of the abdomen

The main causes of pain in the right subcostal region include:

• Diseases of the gallbladder (inflammation, cholelithiasis, cholecystitis).
• Kidney cramps.
• Intercostal nerve impingement.
• Intestinal spasms.
• Inflammation of the appendix.

If the soreness gradually increases, supplemented by increased body temperature, nausea, vomiting and deterioration of general well-being, then you should immediately seek medical help.

Pulling pains in the right side of the lower abdomen

The appearance of right-sided abdominal pain is most often associated with the disease of organs that are located in the abdominal cavity and retroperitoneum. If discomfort makes itself felt when walking and other physical activity, it may indicate functional abnormalities.

It can also be diseases of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, disturbance of intestinal peristalsis or nutritional disorders. Frequent aching pains are a reason to seek medical help and undergo a comprehensive diagnosis.

Pulling pains in the abdomen on the left side

There are many reasons for the development of aching and pulling sensations on the left side of the epigastrium. Unpleasant condition can be associated with increased gas formation, infectious processes or more serious pathologies.

Consider the possible causes of soreness:

• Diverticulitis - occurs when diverticula become inflamed, unpleasant sensations appear and intensify during or after meals. The disease is complemented by attacks of nausea and vomiting, abdominal bloating.
• Flatulence.
• Gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance.
• Dyspepsia.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis).
• Concretions in the kidneys.
• Constipation.
• Shingles (caused by the same virus as chickenpox).
• Hernia.
• Bowel obstruction and other.

If the painful condition persists for a long period of time, it is a reason to contact the attending physician. Timely diagnosis will help to determine the cause of the pulling pains and eliminate them.

Pulling pains in the left side of the abdomen

Unpleasant pain sensations in the left iliac region are most often associated with various disorders of the digestive system and gastrointestinal tract. The sigmoid colon and loops of the small intestine project into the left side of the abdomen.

In women, unpleasant symptoms may be due to diseases of the left ovary, fallopian tube and other gynecologic disorders.

Other possible causes of pulling pains include:

• Bowel Diseases.
• Power errors.
• Flatulence.
• Acute intestinal infections.
• Enterocolitis (a noninfectious inflammatory process).
• Irritable bowel syndrome.
• Gynecological diseases.
• Ectopic pregnancy.

If the painful condition runs with general weakness, elevated body temperature and other unpleasant symptoms, then you should seek medical help. The appearance of the disorder on a permanent basis may indicate a persistent progression of the pathological process.

Pulling pain in the abdomen and lower back

Most often with such symptomatology is faced by women during menstruation. Let's take a closer look at the causes of discomfort in the abdomen and lower back in adults and children:

1. Women

• Gynecological diseases.
• Pregnancy (hormonal and physiologic changes).
• Climax (imbalance of hormones, blood circulation disorders in the pelvic organs).
• Menstrual pain.
• Psychological factors.
• Overeating.
• Diseases of the GI organs.

2. Men

• Sit-down work and other costs of the profession.
• Prostatitis.
• Epicondylitis.
• Increased physical activity.
• Muscle stretching.
• Metastasis in cancer.
• Pathologies on the part of the digestive system.
• Power errors.
• Bad habits.

3. Children

• Spinal curvature.
• Intestinal disorders.
• Appendicitis.
• Infectious and inflammatory processes in the organs of the GI tract.

You should also take into account the nature of the pain, that is, pulling sensations can be both primary and secondary, periodic and constant. In any case, the appearance of discomfort is a reason to consult a doctor.

Pulling pains in the lower back and lower abdomen

The appearance of painful sensations of a pulling character in the lower back in the lower abdomen can be associated with many causes and factors. The main ones include:

• Spinal injuries, inflammation of spinal muscles, arthritis and more. Unpleasant symptoms go away after changing the position of the body, but without proper treatment they become permanent and acute.
• Pyelonephritis - aching sensations in the lower back are complemented by elevated body temperature and persistent deterioration of general well-being.
• Concretions in the kidneys.
• Prostatitis.
• Gynecologic diseases in women.
• Acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis.
• Intestinal diseases.
• Pathologies on the part of the gastrointestinal tract.

To determine the cause of the disorder, the patient is performed visual inspection and anamnesis collection. Laboratory and instrumental methods of research may also be prescribed. Special attention is paid to differential diagnosis.

Lower abdominal pain, pulling pain in the legs

The appearance of such symptoms causes significant discomfort and is a reason to seek medical help. Most often, pulling pains in the abdomen with irradiation to the leg are a sign of appendicitis. Inflammation of the appendage of the cecum, that is, the appendix can occur with increased body temperature, attacks of nausea and vomiting, deterioration of general well-being.

Other possible causes of unpleasant symptoms include:

• Osteochondrosis.
• Inflammation of uterine appendages and other gynecologic problems.
• Postoperative abdominal complications.
• Hernia (inguinal, femoral).

If the symptomatology is caused by osteochondrosis, it indicates that there are destructive processes in the vertebrae and the nerve roots are pinched.

Postoperative pain is normal in most cases. But if the aching sensations persist for a long period of time and are supplemented by other pathological symptoms, it is an indication for immediate medical attention. Discomfort may indicate the accumulation of pathologic fluid, the development of an infectious or inflammatory process.

Pulling and throbbing pain in the abdomen, which goes to the leg in women, may be a symptom of ovarian suppuration and other gynecological diseases. Soreness in combination with palpable rounded neoplasm in the groin area, this is a clear sign of femoral hernia. This condition also requires medical attention, as there is a risk of hernia impingement and the development of life-threatening complications.

Pulling pain in the middle of the abdomen

Most often, such symptomatology is associated with an improper diet. Pain in the middle of the abdomen, that is, in the navel area may indicate intestinal colic. In this case, it is enough to take an antispasmodic and lie on your side with your knees to your chest to relieve unpleasant symptoms (this position relieves spasms).

Discomfort may be due to irritation of pain receptors of internal organs and visceral peritoneum. This condition is characteristic of such pathologies:

• Irritable bowel syndrome.
• Functional dyspepsia.
• Gastritis and duodenitis.
• Peptic ulcer disease of the stomach and duodenum.
• Esophageal reflux disease.
• Nonspecific ulcerative colitis.
• Pancreatitis.
• Tumor neoplasms of the abdominal cavity organs.
• Diseases of the nervous system.
• Injuries.

To diagnose the disorder, a visual examination of the patient with palpation of the abdominal cavity is performed, the doctor asks about the duration of pain and other features, the presence of additional symptoms. Also, the patient is given a referral for a set of laboratory and instrumental studies. Based on the results of the diagnosis, the doctor makes a diagnosis and prepares a treatment plan.

Pulling pains in the lower abdomen in the groin

As a rule, pain sensations in the groin area are irradiating, that is, they are transmitted from other parts of the body. There are many causes and factors that provoke such symptoms.

In women, discomfort in the groin area is characteristic of premenstrual syndrome. Similar symptomatology is observed in urolithiasis, but during its exacerbation the pain becomes unbearable and is complemented by elevated body temperature.

Another possible cause is appendicitis, inflammatory/infectious processes in the excretory and genital systems, gynecological diseases. To establish the exact cause of the disorder, medical help should be sought.

Pulling pain in the upper abdomen

Gastric diseases are the main cause of pulling sensations in the upper part of the epigastrium. In some cases, such symptomatology acts as a reflected pain, indicating problems with other organs. Very often the disorder runs with additional symptoms in the form of attacks of nausea and vomiting, stool disorders, flatulence, palpitations.

Consider the possible causes of pulling pain in the upper abdomen:

• Overeating.
• Lactose intolerance.
• GI diseases.
• Pancreatic diseases.
• Biliary tract abnormalities.
• Diseases of the liver and spleen.
• Hernias.
• Pancreatitis.
• Cholecystitis.
• Chemical burns of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.
• Food poisoning.
• Tumor neoplasms and other.

Highlight a number of alarming additional symptomatology, the appearance of which is a reason for urgent medical attention:

• Elevated body temperature.
• Tension of the abdominal muscles (disc-shaped abdomen).
• Profuse diarrhea.
• Loss of consciousness.
• A sharp drop in blood pressure.
• Blood in the feces.
• Cold sweats and tachycardia.
• Forced body positioning to relieve pain.

To determine the causes of the disorder should be referred to the attending physician. The patient is examined externally, the abdomen is palpated, a set of laboratory and instrumental tests is prescribed. Treatment methods depend on the identified cause of the disorder.

Vomiting and pulling pains in the abdomen.

Vomiting attacks very often cause abdominal pain. Unpleasant sensations develop due to tissue irritation as stomach acids move back through the digestive tract. The pulling pains and vomiting are preceded by nausea, which may be accompanied by dizziness and a general loss of energy.

Most often vomiting and epigastric pain occur in food poisoning. In this case, vomiting is necessary to expel gastric contents by strong involuntary contraction of abdominal muscles with relaxation of the stomach floor and lower esophageal sphincter. An unpleasant condition is characteristic of gastroenteritis, various pathologies on the part of the GI organs. Also do not exclude adverse reactions to medications, pregnancy.

Prolonged severe vomiting in combination with pain can cause dehydration of the body and electrolyte balance disorders, metabolic disorders. To determine the causes of the painful condition should seek medical help, undergo a set of laboratory and instrumental examinations.

Stomach pain and sleepiness

As a rule, such symptomatology indicates improper nutrition. An unbalanced diet with a lot of fatty and caloric foods, overeating, overindulging in sweets and alcohol can cause a pulling sensation in the epigastrium and drowsiness.

Also to the possible causes of the disorder should be attributed endocrine pathologies. For example, with diabetes mellitus (high blood glucose levels), there is a deficiency of insulin, that is, the hormone that converts glucose entering the body into energy. In this case, overeating and violation of the therapeutic diet cause pain and drowsiness.

Severe pulling pain in the abdomen

Expressed aching sensations in the abdomen occur quite often. In this case, there are many reasons and factor of appearance of an unpleasant symptom, let's consider the main ones:

• Menstrual cramps in women - cramping of the uterus leads to endometrial detachment and menstrual bleeding. In most cases, women tolerate this condition normally, but in case of regular severe pain, you should consult a gynecologist. The doctor will prescribe an effective drug that will relieve the ailments.
• Gynecological diseases (endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine pathologies) - discomfort is localized in the lower abdomen and intensifies during menstruation, as well as during physical activity. To establish the cause of the disorder, you should consult a gynecologist and undergo a set of examinations.
• An ectopic pregnancy is a fertilized egg that lodges and grows in the fallopian tube, ovary or cervix, rather than in the uterus itself. This condition is extremely dangerous, as the growth of the embryo causes severe, sharp pain, there is a risk of internal bleeding. Treatment is surgical only.
• Appendicitis - pulling sensations occur in the right lower abdomen or in the navel area, radiating to the thigh. If the soreness is complemented by increased body temperature, appetite disturbance, nausea and flatulence, an ambulance should be called.
• Flatulence - poor digestion of food leads to the fact that the bacteria in the small intestine, which break down food, begin to release carbon dioxide and other gases. Such fermentation processes increase the pressure in the intestine, press on the nerves of the abdominal cavity, cause pain and abdominal bloating. In most cases, the body independently copes with excess gas. Frequent flatulence is a reason to review the diet and consultation with a gastroenterologist.
• Inflammatory bowel diseases - inflammation of the mucosa can be due to bacterial or viral infection, food poisoning, parasitic infestations, GI diseases and other pathologies.

In addition to the above causes, severe pulling pains in the abdomen occur in kidney disease, presence of concretions, infections of the genitourinary system, muscle sprains/damage, oncologic processes. To establish the exact cause of the disorder and its elimination, you should seek medical help.

Constant pulling pains in the abdomen

Chronic abdominal pain is a difficult diagnostic problem. Constant pulling pain can be abdominal, organic or functional.

Some of the most common causes of discomfort include chronic conditions such as:

• Gastritis.
• Duodenitis.
• Peptic ulcer disease.
• Gastroesophageal reflux.
• Esophagitis.
• Gastroduodenitis.
• Enteritis.
• Colitis.
• Enterocolitis
• Nonspecific ulcerative colitis.
• Crohn's disease and other.

To determine the cause of the disorder, the doctor analyzes the patient's complaints. First of all, the duration of pain and its localization, whether it is associated with food intake, whether additional symptoms appear (belching, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, stool disorders, etc.). After a comprehensive examination, the doctor gives therapeutic recommendations to restore the patient's condition.

Pulling pain in the abdomen in men

The appearance of such symptoms in men is due to many reasons and factors. This can be the genitourinary system, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, neurological diseases and much more.

The most common causes of the painful condition are as follows:

• Urologic diseases - the infection spreads through the body via the bloodstream. The inflammatory process occurs with pulling sensations in the abdomen and groin, there is an elevated body temperature, feverish state. Some patients have vomiting, urine discoloration and other.
• Sexual sphere - most often it is inflammation of the prostate gland. This problem is faced by patients over 40 years of age.
• Gastrointestinal disorders - inflammatory processes in the intestines, appendicitis, pancreatitis, overeating, eating disorders.

There are a number of pathologies in which aching and pulling sensations in the abdomen are an alarming signal:

• Inflammation of the appendix.
• An inguinal hernia.
• Inflammation of the testicles.
• Concretions in the kidneys.
• Prostate adenoma inflammation.
• Pyelonephritis and other kidney diseases.
• Inflammation of the bladder and other.

If discomfort occurs on a constant basis, then it is necessary to inform the attending physician. Early diagnosis will allow to identify and eliminate the cause of the unpleasant condition.

Diagnostics of the pulling pain in the abdomen

To determine the root cause of painful sensations in the abdomen, the patient is prescribed a set of diagnostic tests. Diagnosis begins with interviewing the patient and collecting anamnesis. The doctor examines the patient, palpates the abdomen, listens to the heart rhythm and lungs.

Subsequently, the patient is sent for laboratory diagnostics (urinalysis, fecal analysis, blood biochemistry, gastric juice analysis). Instrumental studies (ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, CT, MRI, X-ray with contrast) are also performed.

Based on the results of the diagnosis, the doctor differentiates and makes a final diagnosis. Tests may also be prescribed in the course of treatment to monitor the effectiveness of the prescribed therapy.

Analyses

Frequent pulling pains in the abdominal area are a reason to consult a doctor. The doctor prescribes a set of tests to determine the cause of the unpleasant condition. Laboratory diagnostics consists of such studies:

• General blood work.
• Amylase blood test (if acute pancreatitis is suspected).
• Coagulogram (coagulation test).
• Testing for viral hepatitis C and B.
• Blood tests for HIV and RW.
• Biochemical blood test (bilirubin, creatinine, urea, liver enzymes).

If there are suspicions of gastric ulcer or chronic gastritis, the patient is prescribed a study of gastric juice. The material is taken with a special probe, which is inserted through the mouth and esophagus. There is also a probe-free method, which is based on taking reagents that color saliva and urine. Women take a pregnancy test.

According to the results of the above tests, the doctor assesses the general condition of the patient's body, the presence of morphological damage to tissues, identifies the inflammatory process and determines its stage.

Instrumental diagnostics

Hardware methods of examination of the abdominal cavity act as the main method in the diagnosis of pathologies of the digestive system. Instrumental diagnostics includes:

• A review radiograph of the abdomen.
• MRI of the abdomen.
• Ultrasound of the abdomen, urinary tract, kidneys.
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy.
• Gastroscopy.

Ultrasound diagnostics is recommended in case of increased gas formation, digestion disorders. Ultrasound is indicated in case of suspected ulcer, gastritis, polyps and other neoplasms.

Differential diagnosis

Since the objective assessment of discomfort in the abdominal region is difficult, it complicates the process of making a definitive diagnosis. Differential diagnosis allows to compare several pathologies similar in symptomatology and find the true cause of the painful condition.

The nature of the pain is crucial in the differentiation process. If the pain persists for a long period of time and is not associated with physiological functions or changes in internal organs, then the emphasis is placed on the psychogenic genesis of the disorder. The final diagnosis is made based on the results of laboratory, instrumental and differential diagnostics.

Treatment of the pulling pain in the abdomen

Treatment tactics for painful sensations in the abdominal area depend entirely on the causes that provoked discomfort. Therapy requires the underlying disease.

If the disorder is caused by chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, which do not require surgical intervention, the patient is prescribed a course of drug therapy and diet. Further management of the patient is handled by a gastroenterologist.

If the pulling symptoms are caused by acute surgical pathologies and are life-threatening for the patient, the patient is waiting for surgical intervention with a further course of restorative therapy and rehabilitation.

Medications

If pulling pains in the abdomen are not caused by serious pathologies that require surgical intervention, then simple analgesics or antispasmodics can be taken to relieve painful symptoms.

• Paracetamol

Analgesic, antipyretic and moderately anti-inflammatory drug. Its mechanism of action is based on inhibition of excitability of the thermoregulation center, synthesis of prostaglandins and inflammatory mediators.

• Indications for use: symptomatic therapy of pain syndrome of mild to moderate intensity, of various origins. The drug is taken in inflammatory and infectious diseases, pain in the GI tract, toothache, neuralgia, myalgia and other disorders.
• The method of use and dosage depend on the form of release of the drug. Tablets are taken at 350-500 mg 3-4 times a day, the maximum daily dosage for adults is 3-4 g, and for children 1-2 g. Rectal suppositories and syrup are prescribed for babies from 1 month to 3 years, the dosage is calculated depending on the body weight of the child.
• Side effects: renal colic, anemia, glomerulonephritis, leukopenia, hyperexcitability, nausea, decreased contractility of the heart muscle, allergic reactions. Overdose has similar signs, treatment is symptomatic.
• Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components of the drug, renal and hepatic insufficiency. Rectal suppositories are not used in inflammatory lesions of the rectal mucosa.

Form of release: tablets of 0.2 g in packages of 10, 30 pieces, syrup in bottles of 125, 100 and 60 ml, rectal suppositories.

• Infacol

A medicinal product with the active component - simethicone. The mechanism of action of the drug is to reduce the surface tension of gas bubbles, which facilitates their elimination from the intestine and relieves painful symptoms.

• Indications for use: spasms and colic of smooth intestinal muscles caused by the accumulation of gas bubbles in the intestinal lumen. The drug is prescribed for the treatment of children
• Method of administration: orally, dosage and duration of therapy is determined by the attending physician, individually for each patient.
• Side effects: the drug is well tolerated, in rare cases patients with hypersensitivity develop skin allergic reactions (rash, itching, urticaria). No cases of overdose have been recorded
• Contraindications: individual intolerance to the components of the drug. It is not used for the treatment of adult and elderly patients.

Form of release: oral suspension of 50, 75 or 100 ml in vials, 1 vial with dosing device in a cardboard package.

• Ermital

This medication is pancreatin, encapsulated in a modern dosage form. The basis of the drug is microtablets in a capsule shell. Thanks to this, the drug effectively eliminates enzyme deficiency, has proteolytic, amylolytic and lipolytic action.

Breaks down nutrients to simple components, improves the functional state of the gastrointestinal tract. Reduces the load on the pancreas and normalizes the digestive process.

• Indications: chronic pancreatitis, cholestatic hepatitis, nutritional errors, dysbacteriosis, pancreatectomy, Crohn's disease, duodenostasis, gastrostasis, cirrhosis, partial gastric resection and other pathologies.
• How to use: orally, standard dosage: 20000-40000 thousand units of lipase for each meal. The contents of micro tablets are not recommended to pour into liquid food, capsules are not chewed and dissolved.
• Side effects: irritation of gastrointestinal mucous membranes, diarrhea, urticaria, rhinitis, bronchospasms, discomfort in the epigastric region, intestinal strictures, constipation.
• Contraindications: intolerance to the main and auxiliary components of the drug acute pancreatitis, pregnancy.

Form of release: capsules for oral administration in three different dosages of 20 and 50 pcs. In a package.

• Gastritol

Medicinal product based on plant components. It affects motor and secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract, has a local anti-inflammatory effect.

• Indications for use: treatment and prevention of dyspepsic phenomena of a functional nature. The drug is taken for pain that occurs after eating, after exercise, with heaviness in the stomach and other unpleasant symptoms. The drug is used in the complex therapy of gastritis, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer.
• How to use: orally. The contents of the bottle are thoroughly shaken and dilute the required amount of medicine in drinking water. Dosage is selected by the attending physician individually for each patient and depends on the level of stomach acidity and age of the patient.
• Side effects: hypersensitivity to light, skin allergic reactions. No cases of overdose have been recorded. The drug is contraindicated in case of intolerance of its components.

Form of release: drops for oral administration in bottles of 20, 50 and 100 ml.

• Diclotol

A non-steroidal drug with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

• Indications for use: conditions accompanied by pain of various localizations. Symptomatic and pathogenetic therapy of inflammation, pain syndrome in lesions of the musculoskeletal system and other pathologies.
• How to use: orally, drinking liquid. The maximum daily dosage is 200 mg divided into two doses. Treatment is recommended to start with 100 mg per day.
• Side effects: dyspepsia, diarrhea, skin allergic reactions, increased risk of blood clots.
• Contraindications: intolerance to the drug components, gastric/duodenal ulcer in the acute stage, bleeding from the GI tract, blood clotting disorders, severe heart failure. It is not prescribed for treatment of children and pregnant women.
• Overdose: nausea and vomiting, headaches, diarrhea, disorientation, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, convulsions. In acute intoxication liver damage develops. Treatment is symptomatic.

Form of release: coated tablets for oral administration of 10, 14 pcs. In a blister.

Vitamins

One of the causes of pulling sensations in the abdomen is a deficiency of vitamins and minerals. This condition can be caused by malnutrition, various diseases and immunodeficiency conditions.

Consider which vitamins and minerals are needed for smooth gastrointestinal function and prevention of painful symptoms:

• A, C, E are vitamins with antioxidant properties. They support the healthy condition of the mucous membrane of the stomach and are found in large quantities in fruits, natural vegetable oils.
• C - accelerates the process of regeneration of damaged tissues and mucous membranes.
• PP - regulates the production of gastric juice, eliminates digestive disorders.
• B9 - has a health-promoting effect on the GI tract.
• E - reduces the risk of gastritis and other damage to the gastric mucosa.
• A - inhibits pathogenic microorganisms, prevents various diseases of the GI tract.
• Sulfur - protects the gastric mucosa from the effects of free radicals.
• Pectin - stimulates the stomach, improves digestive processes.
• Zinc - has antioxidant properties, takes part in protein metabolism and protein synthesis.

The above micro and macronutrients can be obtained through a balanced diet. There are also ready-made pharmacy preparations that contain vitamins and minerals necessary for the GI organs and the whole body.

Physiotherapy treatment

If it is determined that the unpleasant symptomatology is caused by an exacerbation of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, peptic ulcer disease and others), then the patient may be prescribed physiotherapy. In this case, physiotherapy treatment is aimed at alleviating the patient's condition, accelerating the recovery process and as a preventive measure.

• Drug electrophoresis - this method involves the effect on the body of a drug administered by means of a direct current. Electrophoresis creates a skin depot, in which the medication is stored from 1 to 3 or more days. The technique is absolutely painless, does not cause allergic reactions, affects directly on the focus of the lesion. The procedure is prescribed for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, vascular pathologies, traumatologic and orthopedic lesions, diseases of the ENT organs and bronchi.
• Amplipulsterapy - treatment with pulsed current. The technique is indicated for chronic inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system, diseases of the digestive system, respiratory system, pathologies of the nervous system.
• Diadynamic therapy - treatment with pulsed currents of half-sinusoidal form. This effect on the body activates blood and lymph circulation, improves tissue trophicity and stimulates metabolic processes. This physiotherapy is indicated for electrostimulation of transverse striated muscles and smooth muscles of internal organs. Diadynamic currents are used in chronic diseases of digestive organs (peptic ulcer and duodenal ulcer), injuries of the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular pathologies and inflammatory diseases of the uterus.
• EHF therapy is another method of physiotherapy based on exposure to 1-10 mm electromagnetic radiation of extremely high frequency and low intensity. Millimeter waves have a low penetrating power, are located superficially and do not have a thermal effect. EHF has a stimulating effect on the endocrine, immune and vegetative systems of the body.
• Magnetotherapy - exposure of the body to an alternating/pulsating low-frequency magnetic field. It improves blood circulation and metabolic processes, has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipruritic and resolving effect. Stimulates regenerative processes at the cellular level.
• Light therapy - this physiotherapy is a dosed exposure to infrared and ultraviolet radiation. The latter normalizes blood coagulation, improves lipid metabolism, has a desensitizing effect.

All of the above physical procedures are selected individually for each patient, so they are performed only with a doctor's authorization.

Folk treatment

If the pulling sensations are caused by spasms and increased gas formation, then a folk recipe based on such herbs will help:

• 3 tbsp. Of chamomile;
• 1.5 tbsp. Fennel;
• 1.5 tbsp. Aira;
• 2 tbsp. Mint and valerian leaves.

All dry components are thoroughly mixed. Two tbsp. Collection is poured 500 ml of water and boiled over low heat to a boil for 15 minutes. After cooling, strain and take small portions 2-3 times a day after meals.

If unpleasant symptoms are caused by an inflammatory process in the stomach or intestines, then chamomile tea will help. The plant has anti-inflammatory properties. Such tea can be combined with other herbs. To prepare the drink, take 1-2 tsp. Dried flowers of the plant and pour 500 ml of boiling water. After cooling, strain and take ½ cup during the day.

When pulling sensations due to indigestion will help folk remedy based on caraway seeds. Take 2 tbsp. Seeds and 1 liter of water. Boil the seeds on medium heat for 5-10 minutes and strain. Caraway water is recommended to take daily on an empty stomach.

Another folk recipe to eliminate painful symptoms is a drink with lemon juice. The citrus contains citric acid, which triggers the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and promotes better digestion of food. Take a glass of warm water, add 1 tsp of lemon juice and honey to it. Mix well and take 1 cup three times a day.

Herbal treatment

Phytotherapy has proven itself in the treatment of many diseases. Treatment with herbs is effective for pulling and aching sensations in the abdominal area associated with GI disorders.

• If the unpleasant condition is caused by flatulence, ginger will help. To prepare tea, take fresh ginger root and finely chop 1 tbsp. Pour 500 ml of boiling water over the root and add 1-2 tsp. Of honey. It is recommended to drink the drink warm.
• Peppermint tea is a good remedy for pain. Such a drink eliminates excessive gas, suitable for both adults and children. Take a handful of fresh mint leaves and pour 500 ml of boiling water. Tea should insist 5-10 minutes. For flavor, you can add honey to the drink.
• A popular folk remedy for pulling pains in the stomach is potato juice. The root vegetable contains antibacterial substances that have a destructive effect on Helicobacter. Also potatoes eliminate heartburn and constipation. To prepare the remedy, take 1 large potato to get ¼ cup of juice. Dilute the juice with ¾ cup of boiled water, add 1-2 tsp of lemon juice and honey. It is recommended to take the drink on an empty stomach every morning.

In addition to the above recipes, natural apple juice can help with pain caused by GI problems. You can also eat a peeled and grated apple.

If the soreness persists for an extended period of time, you should inform your doctor.

Homeopathy

Another method of treating pulling painful sensations in the stomach is homeopathic remedies. Let's look at popular remedies used for discomfort caused by indigestion:

• Aconite - flatulence, colic, nausea and vomiting, restlessness.
• Arsenicum album - frequent aching pains, vomiting. Discomfort increases after eating.
• Bryonia - the disorder runs with diarrhea, bitter taste in the mouth, deterioration of general health.
• Hamomilla - discomfort occurs after eating, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, belching and feces smelling like rotten eggs, vomiting and cold sweats.
• Cinchona - bloating, belching, stool disturbance, nausea and vomiting. Unpleasant sensations increase after eating and when moving.

All of the above medicines are taken only when prescribed by a homeopathic doctor. The doctor selects the dosage and duration of therapy individually for each patient.

Surgical treatment

Surgical intervention for pulling pains in the abdomen is possible if the discomfort is caused by serious pathologies. For example, inflammation of the appendix in the early stages is manifested by aching sensations in the side of the abdomen. But as the disease progresses, the pathology takes an acute form.

In this case, surgical treatment is indicated for the patient. The operation for uncomplicated acute appendicitis is appendectomy. Removal of the appendix can be performed laparoscopically or laparotomously. In the first case, it is a minimally invasive operation through small punctures in the abdominal cavity. Classical appendectomy is a traditional method of surgery, in which an 8-10 cm incision is made in the iliac region through which the inflamed appendix is removed. After the operation, the patient is waiting for a course of recovery and rehabilitation.

Complications and consequences

There are many causes and factors that cause aching sensations and discomfort in the abdomen. Let's look at the possible consequences of pain caused by ectopic pregnancy.

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg is laid outside the uterine cavity, usually in the fallopian tubes. With this pathology, there is no chance of carrying a baby. The woman needs emergency medical care and surgical intervention.

The main complications of pain caused by this pathology include:

• Removal of one fallopian tube - if the tube is ruptured by a growing fetal egg, it is removed. This procedure does not deprive a woman of the possibility to bear a child in the future, provided, of course, that the second tube is preserved.
• Fallopian tube dysfunction - in some cases, the cilia, which are located on the mucous membranes of the tube, are affected when the organ is preserved. The cilia are responsible for the successful advancement of the fertilized egg into the uterus. The danger of this problem is a recurrence of ectopic pregnancy.
• Inflammatory processes - inflammation is dangerous for the formation of adhesions. The thin lumen and structures of the fallopian tubes become overgrown with connective tissue, which makes successful fertilization impossible. In case of neglected adhesions, infertility is formed.
• Fallopian tube removal - if both tubes are resected, pregnancy is only possible through an artificial insemination (IVF) procedure.

Based on the above-mentioned possible consequences and complications of pulling pains caused by ectopic pregnancy, the appearance of painful symptoms is a reason to immediately consult a doctor. The earlier the pathology was diagnosed, the less serious will be its outcome.

Prevention

Since not all causes of pulling pains in the abdomen can be prevented, special attention is paid to preventive measures that are aimed at minimizing the risk of discomfort.

Prevention includes recommendations such as:

• A healthy and balanced diet.
• Adherence to water regimen.
• Regular physical activity.
• Diet therapy in the presence of intestinal disorders and pathologies on the part of the GI organs.
• Abandonment of bad habits.
• Special exercises to help expel air and gases that have accumulated in the stomach.
• Increased intake of fiber, fruits, vegetables, whole grains.

To preventive measures can be attributed to the use of drugs that reduce the production of hydrochloric acid, thereby minimizing heartburn, acid reflux.

Forecast

The cause of the appearance of pulling pains in the abdomen depends on their prognosis. If the discomfort is caused by food disorders, it is enough to adjust your diet, so that you feel better. If the painfulness occurs on a permanent basis and is complemented by other pathological symptoms, then you should immediately seek medical help. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment, minimizes the risk of complications.