Maybe it started off small. Maybe it suddenly came out of nowhere. Whatever it is, you’re having pain in your side. But why? Where did it come from? And should you be worried? Show We’re all familiar with pain from stubbing a toe or twisting an ankle, but internal pain is a bit more disconcerting since it’s often tricky to pick out the cause. Pain is your body’s way of sounding the alarm. When you feel pain, your body is trying to tell you to take it easy — something is wrong. “Pain in your side or in your abdomen is a common complaint, and it’s a common reason for people to visit the emergency room,” explains Dr. Matthew Souder, a general surgeon at Geisinger. “If you’re experiencing pain in your side, keep track of the pain and see what aggravates it. Does it hurt more when you stand or sit? When you breathe in or breathe out? Does it always hurt the same amount or is it off and on? If you notice the pain is severe or interrupting your ability to go about your day — get medical attention. Even if it isn’t anything dangerous, it’s still better to be sure.” Importantly, if you notice you’re having severe pain, fever, swelling and tenderness of the abdomen, bloody stools, yellowing of the skin or persistent nausea and vomiting, see a doctor immediately. Here are a few things that may be causing that pain in your side. Gas and constipationThe most common reason for the pain in your side is what you ate or drank. Gas or constipation is usually the biggest false alarm when it comes to abdominal and side pain. Each can cause fairly severe pain, but they usually aren’t harmful. Normally, gas and constipation pains can be identified by their inconsistency: the pain may come and go, and it will change depending on how you’re sitting or standing. Gas and constipation pain should subside within an hour or shortly after a bowel movement. Irritable bowel syndromeIrritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common condition that affects the large intestine by causing spasms. “Cases of IBS can range anywhere from mild to severe, and it often runs in families,” notes Dr. Souder. “Factors like food, stress and hormones can trigger IBS, causing symptoms like cramps, pain, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.” If you’re experiencing IBS symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can diagnose whether you do have IBS and prescribe medication if necessary.
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