What causes lower abdominal pain in people above 50+ age

What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in People Over 50?

Lower abdominal pain is a common reason people over the age of 50 seek medical advice. While many causes are mild and treatable, others can be more serious and need timely care. Understanding the most common reasons for abdominal pain in this age group can help you recognize when to monitor symptoms and when to speak to a doctor.

This guide is based on widely accepted medical knowledge and clinical guidelines and is written in clear, everyday language—without minimizing important health risks.

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Why Age Matters When It Comes to Abdominal Pain

As we get older, the body changes in ways that affect the digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. In people over 50:

• Digestion often slows down
• Chronic conditions become more common
• Medications may affect the stomach or intestines
• The immune response can be less obvious, masking symptoms

Because of this, abdominal pain that might be minor in a younger person can signal something more significant later in life.

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Common Digestive Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain

Digestive issues are among the most frequent causes of lower abdominal pain in adults over 50.

1. Constipation

Constipation becomes more common with age due to:

• Reduced physical activity
• Lower fiber intake
• Certain medications (such as pain relievers or blood pressure drugs)

Pain is often described as crampy or pressure-like in the lower abdomen and may improve after a bowel movement.

2. Diverticular Disease

Small pouches (diverticula) can form in the colon, especially after age 50. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, it can cause:

• Persistent pain, usually on the lower left side
• Fever
• Changes in bowel habits

This condition should always be discussed with a doctor.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS can affect people at any age, but symptoms may persist into later life. It may cause:

• Recurrent abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea, constipation, or both

While IBS is not life-threatening, new or worsening symptoms after 50 should be medically evaluated.

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Urinary Tract and Kidney-Related Causes

4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are common in older adults and may cause:

• Lower abdominal discomfort
• Burning or pain with urination
• Frequent urge to urinate

In older adults, symptoms can sometimes be subtle, making evaluation important.

5. Kidney Stones

Stones can cause sharp or cramping pain that may:

• Start in the back or side
• Move toward the lower abdomen or groin
• Be associated with nausea or blood in the urine

Pain often comes in waves and should be assessed promptly.

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Reproductive System Causes

For Women Over 50

6. Ovarian Cysts or Masses

Although less common after menopause, ovarian cysts or growths can still occur and may cause:

• Dull or sharp lower abdominal pain
• Bloating or pressure

Any new pelvic pain after menopause should be taken seriously.

7. Uterine Conditions

Fibroids usually shrink after menopause, but other uterine conditions may still cause pain or pressure and should be evaluated.

For Men Over 50

8. Prostate Problems

An enlarged or inflamed prostate can cause:

• Lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort
• Difficulty urinating
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

Prostate-related pain is common and often treatable when caught early.

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Vascular (Blood Vessel) Causes

9. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

This is a bulging of a major blood vessel in the abdomen and is more common in men over 60, especially those with a history of smoking.

Symptoms may include:

• Deep, steady abdominal or back pain
• A pulsating feeling in the abdomen

This can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention if suspected.

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Inflammatory and Infectious Causes

10. Appendicitis

Although often thought of as a younger person's condition, appendicitis can occur after 50. Symptoms may be less typical and include:

• Lower abdominal pain (sometimes not on the right side)
• Nausea
• Low-grade fever

Delayed diagnosis is more common in older adults, so evaluation is essential.

11. Colitis and Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammation of the colon can result from infection, reduced blood flow, or chronic disease and may cause:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Blood or mucus in stool

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Medication-Related Abdominal Pain

Many adults over 50 take multiple medications. Some can irritate the digestive system or cause constipation, including:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Certain antibiotics
• Iron supplements

If abdominal pain starts after a new medication, speak to a doctor before stopping it.

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Cancer as a Possible Cause

While most abdominal pain is not caused by cancer, the risk does increase with age. Cancers that may cause lower abdominal pain include:

• Colorectal cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Bladder cancer

Pain may be vague and accompanied by:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits
• Fatigue

These symptoms should never be ignored.

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When to Take Lower Abdominal Pain Seriously

Speak to a doctor promptly if abdominal pain is:

• Severe or worsening
• Persistent for more than a few days
• Associated with fever, vomiting, or blood in stool or urine
• Accompanied by unexplained weight loss or weakness

These could signal a serious or life-threatening condition.

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A Helpful First Step: Symptom Checking

If you're experiencing unexplained discomfort and want to better understand what might be causing it, you can use a free abdominal pain symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine how urgently you should seek care. This AI-powered tool can guide your next steps and support more informed conversations with your healthcare provider.

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The Importance of Speaking to a Doctor

Lower abdominal pain in people over 50 should always be taken seriously—even if it seems mild. Early evaluation often leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes.

Always speak to a doctor about:

• Sudden or severe abdominal pain
• Pain that interferes with daily life
• Any symptoms that could be life-threatening or serious

Listening to your body and seeking medical advice when something feels off is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health.

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Final Thoughts

Lower abdominal pain in people over 50 can have many causes, ranging from common digestive issues to more serious conditions. Most causes are manageable when identified early. Paying attention to new or changing symptoms, using reliable tools, and speaking to a doctor when needed can make a meaningful difference in long-term health and peace of mind.