Stomach Pain
The types, severity and causes of stomach pain can range from mild to life-threatening.

When is abdominal pain dangerous?

Go to the nearest ER or call 9-1-1 if you have abdominal pain and experience:

  • High fever
  • Black or bloody stools
  • Vomiting blood
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness or feeling you might pass out
  • Pain that extends to your back

Stomach pain can be associated with any of the following conditions:

  • Appendicitis - inflammation of the appendix; typically causes pain in lower right abdomen and worsens over time.
  • Kidney stones or gallstones - severe pain can start on either side and move around
  • Stomach flu - also known as gastroenteritis, a viral or bacterial infection causing irritation in the stomach lining
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) - common disorder of the large intestine/colon, causing cramping, pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation.
  • Bladder or urinary tract infection - bacterial infection anywhere in the urinary tract, pain can be sudden or increase over time
  • Food poisoning - caused by eating contaminated food, symptoms typically include vomiting, diarrhea and high or sudden fever
  • Menstrual cramps - can be very severe for some women, and can include vomiting, diarrhea and/or severe pain

Symptoms of Appendicitis


This list is not inclusive of all possible medical emergencies. If you have recently had abdominal or weight loss surgery, are pregnant and are experiencing any of the symptoms above, or are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

5 Convenient ER Locations
ERs Nearby in Powell & Knoxville


North Knoxville Medical Center

7565 Dannaher Dr.
Powell, TN 37849


Get Directions to the ER


Turkey Creek Medical Center

10820 Parkside Dr.
Knoxville, TN 37934


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Jefferson Memorial Hospital

110 Hospital Dr.
Jefferson City, TN 37760


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Newport Medical Center

435 Second St.
Newport, TN 37821


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LaFollette Medical Center

923 E Central Ave.
LaFollette, TN 37766


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Emergency Symptoms

Heart Attack

A heart attack can occur at any time & they are not always sudden & intense. Knowing & recognizing heart attack warning signs can save a life.

View Warning Signs

Severe Pain

If not due to an injury, most pain should be addressed with your doctor. However, some symptoms may require immediate medical attention.

View Emergent Symptoms

Abdominal Pain

The types, severity & causes of stomach pain range from mild to life-threatening. View our list of emergent symptoms & know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms

Dizziness

There are many possible causes for the feelings of dizziness, weakness and confusion. View symptoms & know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms

Appendicitis

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and is often extremely painful. View symptoms & know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms

Chest Pain

While not always heart-related, some causes of chest pain, such as a heart attack, can be life threatening. View possible causes of chest pain and know when to go to the ER.

View Emergent Symptoms