Why Does My Lower Abdomen Hurt?

May 22, 2024

Exploring the tastes and sights of Northeast Portland, OR can be exciting and fun. But it is not uncommon to experience stomach discomfort along the way. The city offers a range of culinary options like food carts or brunch spots, as well as plenty of activities like exploring the Alberta Arts District or going to a Trail Blazers game at the Moda Center. With whatever adventure you choose, stomach pain can sneak up unexpectedly. However, don’t let it hinder you from experiencing all that Portland has to offer. Get the help you need at our NE Portland AFC Urgent Care location.

Schedule an appointment today.

Stomach pain is one of the most uncomfortable sensations, especially if it comes and goes or remains prolonged for hours at a time. Pain in the body is generally a signal to us that we have another issue that we should consider treating. Abdominal pain may be an indicator that we may be experiencing one of many ailments including UTIs, bladder infections, and flu or influenza.

Figuring out why your stomach is in pain and recognizing the signs of different causes is important for quick recovery. There are many at-home solutions you can use but if your stomach pain refuses to subside, it’s important to be proactive and prioritize getting the professional help you need. Here at AFC Urgent Care NE Portland, we are prepared to treat your stomach pain, so consider scheduling an appointment with us or simply walking into our clinic any day of the week for a comprehensive assessment and caring treatment.

What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

A UTI is an infection of the urinary system – kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra – usually caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria that move from the bowel to the urethra into the urinary tract. Two parts of the urinary tract may be affected:

  • Lower (Cystitis): Infects the bladder and causes frequent urination, burning during urination, cloudy or potent smelling urine, pelvic pain, and sometimes bloody urine.
  • Upper (Pyelonephritis): Infects the kidneys and is usually more severe and less common. Causes fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, back pain, and general discomfort.

UTIs are more common for women but affect people of all ages. Women are more susceptible due to the shorter urethra in the female anatomy, sexual activity, birth control side effects, urinary tract abnormalities, immune system suppression, and even diabetes.

How does abdominal pain signal a UTI?

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of urinary tract infections, especially with upper UTIs that affect the kidneys. The pain is usually felt in the lower abdomen or pelvic region of the body. If you’re experiencing stomach pain in addition to other common symptoms of UTIs, it's important to seek medical help from a team of professionals like our team here at AFC Urgent Care NE Portland.

How do you treat UTIs?

The key to treating UTIs is killing the bacteria causing the infection, which usually involves antibiotics and drinking plenty of fluids to flush out the urinary tract. Treatment is important because UTIs can lead to more serious complications like kidney damage or sepsis. It’s important to seek proper professional medical attention. Urgent care centers are the quickest effective option, so consider making an appointment or visiting our clinic today if you suspect you have a UTI.

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