Hi
You have mentioned "irregular" teen. By irregular, are you referring to your menstrual cycle?
Firstly, it is important to note the location of the pain. The pain's location will help suggest the
likely differential diagnosis for your condition. Pain in the center of the abdomen may pertain to intestinal
conditions. Pain located in the epigastrium (the area just beneath the chest) may suggest stomach ulcers or
pancreatic problems. Pain on the right side may suggest gallbladder and liver problems, while pain on the left
side may suggest underlying problems with the spleen.
It is also important to note that pain in the abdomen may be referred pain from conditions outside of the
abdomen. Kidney and gynecologic disease conditions may also refer pain in the abdominal region.
Sharp pains may be musculoskeletal (eg costochondritis or inflammation of connective tissues of the ribs) in
nature especially when associated with postural changes and movement. They may also be due to inflammed
tissues like appendicitis and peptic ulcer diseases. Pain associated with food intake may be due to peptic or
duodenal ulcers as well as gallstones.
I would suggest that you have a urinalysis done to rule out urinary tract infections. A kidney, ureter and
bladder ultrasound will also be able to help rule out kidney stones which may present as sharp or colicky
pain. A pelvic examination by a gynecologist may be able to help especially in the presence of irregular
menses.
If the pain becomes severe and is aggravated by food intake , I suggest that a referral to a
gastroenterologist may be able to help. Upper GI studies as well as upper GI endoscopy may help rule out
peptic ulcers. Stool guaiac examinations may also be indicated.
Eat well. Do not skip meals. Avoid coffee and cold drinks. Sleep early and exercise when you can. Anxiety and
stress may cause abdominal pains.
