Abdominal exploratory surgery may be needed to make the diagnosis. Long-term effects can range from none, to permanent disability, or even death. This depends on the underlying cause of the abdominal distress. Some conditions that cause abdominal pain, such as infection, may be contagious. Other causes do not result in a risk to others.
Treatments vary widely depending on the cause of the abdominal discomfort.
Treatment may include medicines or surgery. All medicines have potential side effects, including allergic reactions and stomach upset. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and reactions to the medicines used for anesthesia. What happens after treatment depends on the underlying cause. A person may need no further monitoring or may need treatment for the rest of his or her life.