Most of us have experienced occasional abdominal pain or bloating, maybe after a large meal or during a particularly stressful week. But when this discomfort becomes persistent, painful, or begins to interfere with your quality of life, it may be time to look beyond the usual assumptions. At GI Solutions of Illinois, located in Chicago, we know how distressing digestive symptoms can be and how important it is to get the right answers early.
Many people delay seeking care, thinking it’s “just gas” or something that will pass with home remedies. But here’s the truth: persistent abdominal pain and bloating are not always harmless. These symptoms could be early signs of underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), or other digestive disorders that require medical attention.
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
IBS – Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder. This means there’s no visible damage to the digestive tract, but the way the gut works is impaired. Many patients experience abdominal pain, bloating, excess gas, and changes in bowel habits, such as alternating constipation and diarrhea.
These symptoms often fluctuate with stress, diet, or hormonal changes, and while not life-threatening, they can deeply affect daily life. IBS commonly starts before the age of 50, but symptoms can persist or worsen if not properly managed.
IBS symptoms are often influenced by stress, diet, and even hormones. Also, IBS affects up to 15% of the U.S. population, and many people live with it undiagnosed.
IBD – Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), on the other hand, involves chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and includes conditions like Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. These disorders can cause ongoing abdominal pain, bloody stools, fatigue, weight loss, and frequent bowel movements, sometimes accompanied by fever.
Unlike IBS, IBD can lead to serious complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly. It tends to appear in late teens to early adulthood, though older adults are not immune to new onset symptoms.
What if the abdominal pain is not IBS and IBD
IBS and IBD are not the only reasons behind the abdominal pain. At GI Solutions of Illinois, our physicians assess a full spectrum of possible causes when evaluating patients with abdominal symptoms. Food intolerances, like lactose or gluten sensitivity, can lead to bloating and pain shortly after eating. Conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), where excess bacteria build up in the small intestine, may cause chronic bloating and gas that home remedies cannot resolve.
Other potential causes include gastroparesis, where the stomach empties too slowly, gallstones that trigger sharp pain after fatty meals, or even gynecological conditions like endometriosis that often mimic digestive disorders in women. More serious causes, such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, pancreatitis, or diverticulitis, must also be considered—especially when the symptoms are severe or persistent.
The Dangers of Self-Treating Digestive Symptoms with Home Remedies
One of the most dangerous habits people fall into is minimizing symptoms or trying to manage them with over-the-counter medications and home remedies. While temporary relief might mask the discomfort, it does not address the root cause—and in many cases, it can delay vital diagnosis and treatment. Abdominal bloating and pain, especially when recurring, should not be self-diagnosed.
Ignoring these signs could allow a manageable issue to develop into a more complex condition. These symptoms can affect individuals of all ages, but they often begin in early adulthood and may evolve with age. Adults over 50 should be especially cautious if new symptoms appear, as the risk for serious conditions like colorectal cancer increases with age.
When to Seek Expert Help from GI Solutions of Illinois
If you’re experiencing persistent pain for more than a week, worsening over time or severe abdominal bloating and pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. While occasional discomfort can be normal, certain symptoms warrant immediate attention from a gastroenterologist.
Seek medical advice from GI Solutions of Illinois if you experience:
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Bloody or black stools.
- Persistent vomiting or nausea.
- Severe abdominal pain that worsens over time or wakes you from sleep.
- Fever.
- Symptoms that significantly disrupt your daily life despite dietary changes or over-the-counter remedies.
- New onset of symptoms, especially if you are over 50.
At GI Solutions, our board-certified gastroenterologists are dedicated to providing compassionate and advanced care for all your digestive health needs. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, including endoscopy and colonoscopy, to accurately diagnose your condition. Our approach is personalized, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Don’t Ignore the Signs—Take Action Today
Don’t let abdominal bloating and pain dictate your life. If you are seeking for gastroenterology in Chicago,
Contact GI Solutions of Illinois today to schedule an appointment. Let us help you find relief and get back to feeling your best. Your digestive health is our top priority!
Call us today at (773) 631-2728
Or visit our website to request an appointment online.
