It is with good reason that doctors raise a red flag against stomach ache, warning that dismissing it as mere indigestion or gas conceals silent, yet life-threatening, conditions. What seems like mild discomfort could be peritonitis from a ruptured appendix or bowel perforation. The pain builds up very quickly, and within hours, sepsis can set in if not treated. The elderly or immunocompromised are more at risk because symptoms may remain subtle even while organs fail. Hence, a timely medical check-up using imaging and blood tests may save a patient from disaster.
There are warning signs, emphasised by physicians and doctor include pain that doesn’t stop with rest or pain accompanied by fever and vomiting, advising patients to seek hospital aid rather than homemade treatment for relief. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr Manas Ranjan Tripathy, Senior Consultant - General and Minimal Access Surgery, Manipal Hospital Sarjapur, shares the silent conditions of stomach pain that can be life-threatening.
Stomach Pain That Must Not Be Ignored
Appendix: A Medical Emergency in Disguise
When the appendix gets inflamed, appendicitis happens. The pain usually starts near the belly button and moves slowly to the lower right side of the stomach, where it gets sharp and strong. You might get a fever, feel sick, and throw up. Dr Manas Ranjan Tripathy states, “If the appendix isn't treated, it can burst and cause an infection that could kill you.” Once the appendix is diagnosed, it must be surgically removed right away.
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Gallbladder Stones: When Pain Follows Meals
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. Many people remain symptom-free, but when a stone prevents a bile duct, it can cause abrupt pain in the upper right abdomen - usually right after eating greasy or heavy foods. Dr Manas Ranjan Tripathy says, “The pain may spread to the back or shoulder and be accompanied by nausea.” Since medicines cannot remove stones effectively, gallbladder surgery is recommended when symptoms recur or complications develop.
Stomach Pain That Must Not Be Ignored (Image Credits: Canva)
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Hernia: A Growing Problem That Needs Repair
A hernia appears as a bulge when an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. It may cause discomfort while standing, lifting, or coughing. Dr Manas Ranjan Tripathy states, “Hernias do not heal on their own and can become dangerous if the organ gets trapped. Surgery is the only permanent solution.”
Persistent or severe stomach pain deserves medical attention. Early diagnosis leads to safer treatment, quicker recovery, and peace of mind.