Stomach pain is one of the most commonly ignored symptoms, often dismissed as indigestion, gas, or mild discomfort. However, what feels like an everyday ache can sometimes be a warning sign of a serious underlying condition. According to Dr. Manas Ranjan Tripathy, a respected Laparoscopic Surgeon, overlooking persistent or unusual abdominal pain can delay diagnosis and treatment, potentially turning manageable problems into life-threatening emergencies.
Why Stomach Pain Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Abdominal pain can stem from a variety of causes, from benign digestive issues to serious surgical conditions. Although occasional discomfort can be harmless, Persistent Pain, escalating severity, or associated symptoms require immediate medical evaluation. Delays in diagnosis not only complicate treatment but may also increase the risk of complications or serious illness.
Common Serious Conditions Behind Abdominal Pain
Some health issues begin subtly with mild stomach discomfort, only to progress into more dangerous states if ignored. These include:
1. Acute Appendicitis
Appendicitis often begins with dull pain around the navel or lower abdomen, which gradually intensifies and shifts to the right side. Without prompt surgical intervention, the appendix can rupture, leading to widespread infection. Early detection and minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery can prevent this escalation.
2. Intestinal Obstruction
Pain accompanied by bloating, vomiting, and inability to pass stool or gas may indicate a blockage in the intestines. This condition requires urgent evaluation, as delayed treatment can result in tissue death or perforation of the bowel.
3. Gallbladder Problems
Pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after heavy or fatty meals, can signal gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. Fever and persistent pain in this region warrant a thorough examination, as untreated infections can spread and worsen.
4. Peptic Ulcers and Gastric Issues
Ulcers and gastritis often present as burning or gnawing pain. While common, persistent symptoms should not be dismissed, especially if accompanied by black or bloody stools — a potential sign of internal bleeding.
Red Flags That Require Immediate Medical Attention
Dr. Tripathy emphasizes that not all stomach pain is harmless. Seek medical help if you experience:
- Persistent or severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting or bloating that worsens over time
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Fever with stomach pain
- Inability to pass stool or gas
- Unexplained weight loss or lethargy
These signs may indicate conditions that need urgent care, from infections to surgical emergencies.
Role of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early medical evaluation and advanced imaging can distinguish benign discomfort from serious disease. Minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic surgery offer safer, faster recovery with less postoperative pain and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery.
Conclusion
Ignoring stomach pain may seem harmless in the short term, but it can mask underlying conditions that become life-threatening if untreated. Persistent or unusual abdominal symptoms should never be dismissed — timely consultation with a specialist like Dr. Manas Ranjan Tripathy can lead to early diagnosis, effective treatment, and a significantly improved outcome.
Source: THE DAILY JAGRAN
Article: thedailyjagran.com/lifestyle/ignoring-stomach-pain-doctor-shares-silent-conditions-can-turn-lifethreatening-10291548
Updated On: 09/01/2026
