Stomach & digestion

Abdominal pain and discomfort: virtual care options

Abdominal pain is any pain or discomfort between the chest and the groin. Mild, familiar discomfort such as gas, indigestion, or bloating is common, but belly pain can also be a sign of serious problems like appendicitis or a blockage. A virtual visit is only meant for mild, ongoing discomfort; new, severe, or worsening pain needs in-person or emergency care.

See virtual care for Abdominal pain

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

Mild cramping, aching, or a dull discomfort in the belly
Bloating or gas
Heartburn or a burning feeling in the upper belly
Discomfort that comes and goes after eating
Changes in bowel habits along with the discomfort

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

An online visit for mild, ongoing discomfort, where a provider asks where it hurts, how long it has lasted, and what makes it better or worse
Advice on diet and other changes that may help
Treatment, if a provider decides it is appropriate
A clear referral to in-person or emergency care if anything suggests a more serious cause

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

Most new belly pain, since many causes need a physical exam, labs, or imaging
You are pregnant or could be pregnant
A child or older adult has belly pain
Pain keeps coming back, is getting worse, or comes with weight loss

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Sudden, severe, or worsening belly pain
Pain that starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right side
A rigid or very tender belly, or pain with fever
Vomiting blood, or black or bloody stool
Belly pain during pregnancy, after an injury, or with fainting, chest pain, or trouble breathing

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Common questions

Abdominal pain, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

When is stomach pain an emergency?

Call 911 or go to an emergency room for sudden or severe pain, pain in the lower right belly, a hard belly, pain with fever, or blood in vomit or stool. Belly pain during pregnancy or after an injury also needs emergency care.

Can I see a doctor online for stomach pain?

A virtual visit may help with mild, ongoing discomfort such as indigestion or bloating that you have had before. New or severe pain usually needs a hands-on exam and tests, so go in person or to the ER.

How do I know if my stomach pain is appendicitis?

Only an in-person exam and tests can tell. Appendicitis pain often starts around the belly button, moves to the lower right side, and gets worse. If that sounds like your pain, go to an emergency room.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.