Abdominal pain is a common health concern that can range from mild discomfort to sharp, sudden pain. When abdominal pain develops suddenly and has lasted less than 24 hours, it often requires timely evaluation to determine the cause and provide relief. While severe or ongoing abdominal pain may require emergency care, urgent care visits are an excellent option for new, short-term pain that needs prompt attention but is not immediately life-threatening.
At Integrous Family Care in Charlotte, NC, we provide urgent care visits for patients experiencing new abdominal pain. Sabrina McCluskey, MSN, FNP-C, has more than 20 years of nursing experience and 16 years in advanced practice, including urgent care and family medicine. She combines clinical expertise with a compassionate, patient-first approach to ensure that abdominal pain is thoroughly evaluated and treated quickly.
When to Seek Urgent Care for Abdominal Pain
Sudden abdominal pain can interfere with daily activities and may be a sign of infection, inflammation, or digestive upset. Urgent care is appropriate when:
- Pain has started recently and lasted less than 24 hours
- The pain is moderate to severe but not unbearable
- Symptoms are uncomfortable enough to disrupt eating, sleeping, or daily routines
- Pain is accompanied by mild nausea, bloating, or cramping
- You are uncertain about the cause and want peace of mind through an evaluation
In these cases, scheduling an office visit for an illness provides an accessible alternative to waiting for a primary care appointment while avoiding unnecessary emergency room visits.
Possible Causes of Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can stem from many different conditions. Common causes include:
- Indigestion or gas
- Stomach viruses or mild infections
- Constipation
- Urinary or bladder irritation
- Muscle strain or minor injury
- Food-related sensitivities
While most causes are not serious, abdominal pain can sometimes indicate a more concerning condition. Seeking urgent care ensures that the cause is evaluated quickly so treatment can begin as soon as possible.
What to Expect During Your Visit
During an urgent care appointment for abdominal pain, the provider will:
- Review your health history, recent meals, and any medications
- Ask about the location, duration, and severity of the pain
- Perform a physical exam to check for tenderness, swelling, or other signs
- Order diagnostic tests if needed, such as lab work or imaging
- Provide treatment recommendations, which may include medication, hydration, or diet modifications
- Offer guidance on when additional care or follow-up is necessary
The goal of the visit is to identify possible causes, provide immediate relief when possible, and ensure patients leave with a clear plan for next steps.
Why Choose Integrous Family Care for Abdominal Pain?
At Integrous Family Care, patients receive urgent care delivered with integrity and compassion. Sabrina McCluskey, MSN, FNP-C, draws on her extensive experience in urgent care and family medicine to evaluate abdominal pain with precision and care. She takes the time to listen to each patient’s concerns, explain findings clearly, and create a personalized care plan.
Our Charlotte clinic offers flexible scheduling, including in-person appointments on Saturdays and Mondays, making it easier for patients to be seen when sudden symptoms arise. Families trust us because we provide a welcoming environment, thorough evaluations, and a commitment to patient well-being.
Find Relief from Abdominal Pain in Charlotte, NC
If you are experiencing sudden abdominal pain that has lasted less than a day, urgent care at Integrous Family Care in Charlotte, NC can help you find answers and relief. Call 980-357-9300 today to schedule your visit and get the care you need to feel better with confidence.