Sudden Abdominal Pain Over 65: When to Call the Doctor

Sudden Abdominal Pain Over 65: When to Call the Doctor

Abdominal pain is common at any age, but sudden abdominal pain in adults over 65 deserves special attention. As we get older, our bodies respond differently to illness and injury. Pain may feel milder than expected, symptoms can be less obvious, and serious conditions may progress more quickly. That's why understanding when abdominal pain is urgent—and when it can wait—matters.

This guide explains what sudden abdominal pain can mean for older adults, warning signs to watch for, and when it's important to speak to a doctor right away. The goal is to help you make informed decisions without unnecessary fear.

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Why Abdominal Pain Is Different After Age 65

Abdominal pain is not one condition—it's a symptom with many possible causes. In older adults, several factors make abdominal pain harder to interpret:

• Pain sensitivity may be reduced due to aging nerves or conditions like diabetes
• Chronic illnesses can mask or change symptoms
• Medications (such as blood thinners or pain relievers) can increase risk
• The immune system may not respond strongly, so fever or obvious signs may be absent

Because of this, serious abdominal problems may not cause severe pain at first, and delays in care can lead to complications.

Medical organizations focused on geriatric care consistently emphasize that new or sudden abdominal pain in older adults should be taken seriously, even if it seems mild.

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Common Causes of Abdominal Pain in Adults Over 65

Many causes of abdominal pain are not life-threatening, but some require urgent care. Common possibilities include:

Digestive Causes

• Constipation or bowel blockage
• Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation
• Stomach ulcers or gastritis
• Diverticulitis (inflamed pouches in the colon)

Vascular Causes (Blood Flow Issues)

• Reduced blood flow to the intestines (intestinal ischemia)
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (a weakened, enlarged artery)

Urinary and Reproductive Causes

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs), which may cause confusion more than pain
• Kidney stones
• Prostate or gynecologic conditions

Medication-Related Causes

• Side effects from NSAIDs, antibiotics, or opioids
• Internal bleeding related to blood thinners

Some of these conditions develop slowly, while others can become dangerous within hours. That's why timing and associated symptoms matter as much as pain intensity.

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When Abdominal Pain Is More Concerning

You should call a doctor promptly or seek urgent care if abdominal pain is:

• Sudden and severe
• New and unexplained
• Getting worse over several hours
• Different from any pain you've had before

Even pain that feels "manageable" can signal a serious problem in older adults.

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Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Call emergency services or go to the emergency room right away if abdominal pain is accompanied by:

• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting
• Confusion, extreme weakness, or sudden behavior changes
• Fever with shaking chills
• Persistent vomiting or vomiting blood
• Black or bloody stools
• A rigid, hard, or very tender abdomen
• Severe pain after a fall or injury
• Sudden pain with low blood pressure or dizziness

These symptoms can point to life-threatening conditions such as internal bleeding, bowel perforation, sepsis, or major blood vessel problems. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.

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When to Call Your Doctor Soon (Same Day or Next Day)

Not all abdominal pain requires emergency care, but many situations still warrant prompt medical advice. Call your primary care doctor if you notice:

• Ongoing abdominal pain lasting more than 24 hours
• Pain with nausea, loss of appetite, or bloating
• Changes in bowel habits that don't resolve
• Pain along with urinary symptoms (burning, urgency, dark urine)
• Abdominal pain plus unexplained weight loss

If you're unsure, it's always reasonable to speak to a doctor and ask whether symptoms should be evaluated urgently.

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Why "Waiting It Out" Can Be Risky Over 65

In younger adults, mild abdominal pain is often caused by gas, indigestion, or a stomach bug. In older adults, the same symptoms may represent:

• A more serious underlying condition
• A complication of an existing disease
• A medication-related problem

Delaying care can increase the risk of hospitalization, surgery, or long-term complications. Early evaluation often leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes.

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How Doctors Evaluate Abdominal Pain in Older Adults

When you see a doctor for abdominal pain, they may:

• Review your medical history and medications
• Ask detailed questions about timing, location, and triggers
• Perform a physical exam
• Order blood tests, urine tests, or imaging (such as ultrasound or CT scan)

These steps help rule out dangerous causes and guide appropriate treatment. Even when results are reassuring, getting checked provides peace of mind.

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Practical Steps You Can Take Right Now

If you or a loved one over 65 develops abdominal pain:

• Do not ignore new or sudden pain
• Avoid taking leftover pain medication unless advised
• Note when the pain started and what makes it better or worse
• Watch for changes in alertness, appetite, or bowel habits

If you're experiencing symptoms and want to better understand what might be causing your abdominal pain, a free AI-powered symptom checker can help you organize your concerns and determine whether immediate medical attention is needed. This can be useful preparation, but it should never replace professional medical care.

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How to Talk to a Doctor About Abdominal Pain

When speaking to a doctor, be clear and specific. Mention:

• Your age and medical conditions
• All medications and supplements
• When the abdominal pain started
• Whether it is constant or comes and goes
• Any associated symptoms, even if they seem minor

If something feels serious or unusual, say so directly. You know your body best, and your concerns matter.

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The Bottom Line

Abdominal pain over age 65 should always be taken seriously—especially when it is sudden, new, or worsening. While many causes are treatable and not life-threatening, others require urgent attention. The challenge is that serious conditions may not always cause dramatic pain in older adults.

Trust your instincts. If abdominal pain feels different, persistent, or concerning, speak to a doctor. If symptoms suggest something life-threatening, seek emergency care immediately. Prompt action can make a meaningful difference in recovery and long-term health.