Gastrointestinal Problems

Causes of Gastrointestinal Problems and How to Address Them

Treatment available at Co-Hill Urgent Care & Wellness Center

Gastrointestinal Problems: Urgent Care vs. ER vs. Home Treatment

Stomach pain is a common issue with many potential causes, ranging from mild discomfort to more serious conditions. While a typical stomach ache can often be managed at home, certain symptoms or persistent pain may require medical attention. Here’s a guide to help you determine when it’s best to stay home, schedule a doctor’s appointment, visit urgent care, or head to the ER.

Common Causes of Stomach Pain

Stomach pain can be caused by various gastrointestinal issues, including:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Crohn’s Disease
Gas or indigestion
Food poisoning, intolerance, or allergies
Lactose intolerance
Endometriosis (in women)
Period cramps (in women)
Hernia
Gallstones
Kidney stones
Appendicitis

When to Stay Home

If your stomach pain is mild to moderate and doesn’t present any other concerning symptoms, you can often manage it at home. Consider staying home if:

The pain is mild and doesn’t worsen
You experience a low-grade fever without other serious symptoms
There are signs of a common cold, such as sneezing or coughing, but no major worsening of the pain

When to Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment

If your stomach pain is recurring, worsening, or has become a consistent issue, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. You should consult with a doctor if:

You experience pain that repeatedly comes back or gets worse over time
Certain foods seem to trigger your stomach pain
You’ve had abdominal pain at least twice a month for the past three months

When to Visit Urgent Care

Urgent care centers are an excellent option for more immediate, but non-life-threatening gastrointestinal issues. Consider urgent care if:

Your stomach pain comes on suddenly and is mild to moderate
You have associated symptoms such as vomiting, mild headache, or bloating
The pain doesn’t subside after a few hours

When to Head to the ER

In some cases, stomach pain may indicate a severe or life-threatening condition that requires immediate emergency care. Seek emergency treatment if:

You experience severe pain that may be described as the “worst stomach pain of your life”
The pain is accompanied by dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness
You vomit blood, have bloody stools, or experience jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
You have a high fever (over 101.5°F)
You experience sudden, sharp, or sustained abdominal pain with other concerning symptoms

Co-Hill Urgent Care & Wellness Center is here to provide fast, expert care for all types of gastrointestinal issues. If you’re unsure whether to stay home, schedule an appointment, or seek immediate medical attention, our team is ready to evaluate your symptoms and provide the appropriate care. Visit us today for prompt treatment and relief!