Lower vs. Upper Abdominal Pain: Key Differences Explained

Abdominal pain is a common concern that affects people of all ages. Its location—whether in the upper or lower abdomen—often provides valuable clues about the underlying cause. Recognising these differences can help determine when simple lifestyle measures may be enough and when further investigations, such as a colonoscopy in Singapore, might be necessary.

Keep reading to learn the key differences between upper and lower abdominal pain, their common causes, and when it may be time to seek medical advice.

Understanding Abdominal Regions

Doctors often divide the abdomen into two main areas to help identify possible causes of pain. The upper abdomen, located below the chest and above the navel, and the lower abdomen, which lies below the navel and extends down to the pelvis. Pinpointing where discomfort occurs provides insights about its origin and can help guide further medical evaluation if necessary.

Key Differences Between Upper and Lower Abdominal Pain

Common Causes

Upper abdominal pain is frequently linked to conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, gallbladder disease or pancreatic issues. Lower abdominal pain is more commonly associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colitis, diverticulitis or appendicitis.

Pain Character

Pain in the upper abdomen may feel burning or sharp and can radiate upwards. Lower abdominal pain, on the other hand, is usually cramping or dull and often related to changes in bowel habits.

Associated Symptoms

Upper abdominal pain often comes with indigestion, nausea or vomiting. Lower abdominal pain may be accompanied by bowel habit changes, rectal bleeding or pelvic discomfort.

Diagnostic Approach

Upper abdominal issues are typically assessed with procedures like gastroscopy, ultrasound, or CT scans. For lower abdominal pain, doctors may recommend a colonoscopy, imaging, or lab tests to look into bowel or colorectal conditions.

When to Consider a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to carefully examine the lining of the colon and rectum to detect abnormalities such as inflammation, polyps, or cancer. It is often recommended if certain warning signs are present, such as:

• Persistent Lower Abdominal Pain

  : Ongoing discomfort or cramping in the lower abdomen may signal issues that require closer examination.

• Blood in the Stool

  : The presence of bright red or dark blood in the stool should never be ignored, as it can indicate bleeding within the digestive tract.

• Lasting Changes in Bowel Habits

  : Constipation, diarrhoea or other bowel changes that persist for more than a few weeks may warrant further investigation.

• Unexplained Weight Loss

  : Losing weight without changes in diet or lifestyle can sometimes be linked to underlying gastrointestinal conditions.

Beyond addressing symptoms, colonoscopy is widely used as a screening tool for early detection and removal of polyps before they develop into cancer, significantly improving long-term outcomes.

Self-Care vs. When to Seek Medical Help

Self-Care for Mild Discomfort

Some abdominal discomfort can improve with lifestyle adjustments, such as:

• Eating smaller, well-balanced meals
• Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Avoiding foods or drinks that trigger symptoms, such as fatty, spicy, or overly processed items

When to Seek Medical Help

While mild pain may settle on its own, prompt medical consultation is recommended if:

• The pain is severe, worsening or of sudden onset
• It is accompanied by fever, persistent vomiting or blood in the stool
• It continues for more than a few days without improvement

Seeking timely medical care allows your doctor to identify any underlying condition and, if necessary, arrange further tests for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Why Choose Our Specialist in Singapore

Dr Ho Kok Sun is a consultant colorectal & general surgeon in Singapore. He graduated from the National University of Singapore in 1993, obtained his Master of Medicine in Surgery in 1998 and became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh the same year. After completing specialist training in General Surgery in 2002, he pursued a fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic Florida and has since subspecialised in colorectal surgery. His areas of clinical interest include laparoscopic colorectal surgery, therapeutic endoscopy such as colonoscopy, and the management of anal conditions.

If symptoms are persistent, particularly with bleeding or changes in bowel habits, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our colorectal specialist. Contact us today and let us discuss whether a colonoscopy is recommended.