You should not wait at all if abdominal pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by difficulty breathing; these require an immediate ER visit. For most other types of pain, the “waiting period” depends on severity: if intense pain lasts more than 30 minutes without relief, or if mild pain persists for more than 24 to 48 hours, medical evaluation is necessary.
At Sahara West Urgent Care, we help patients skip the long ER wait times by providing rapid triage for acute abdominal issues. If your pain is concerning but not life-threatening, visiting an urgent care in Las Vegas is the most efficient way to determine the cause and receive treatment.
When to Seek Immediate Emergency Care (ER)
Do not wait to see if symptoms improve if you experience the following “Red Flags”:
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Sudden, Stabbing Pain: Especially if it is concentrated in the lower right quadrant.
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Signs of Internal Bleeding: Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools.
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Trauma-Related Pain: Discomfort that follows a blow to the abdomen or an accident.
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Inability to Function: Pain so severe you cannot stand up straight or walk.
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Pregnancy-Related Pain: Any severe cramping or abdominal distress during pregnancy.
Common Reasons to Visit Urgent Care for Abdominal Issues
Many conditions causing abdominal distress are urgent but do not require a hospital ER. Our team frequently treats:
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Severe Bloating and Gas: Pain that mimics more serious issues but is related to digestion.
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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Which can cause significant lower abdominal and pelvic pressure.
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Persistent Nausea or Diarrhea: Especially when there is a risk of dehydration.
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Kidney Stones: Managing the initial intense pain and confirming the diagnosis. Check our guide on for more specific information.
The Diagnostic Process: Why an Exam is Required
Abdominal pain is complex because many different organs occupy the same space. To provide an accurate diagnosis, the medical team at Sahara West Urgent Care may perform:
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Physical Examination: Palpating the abdomen to check for swelling, rigidity, or localized tenderness.
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On-Site Lab Testing: Including urinalysis to rule out infections or blood work to check for inflammation.
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Vital Sign Monitoring: Checking for fever, high heart rate, or blood pressure changes that indicate distress.
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Medical History Review: To see if the pain is linked to chronic conditions or recent dietary changes.
Why Choose Sahara West Urgent Care for Your Treatment?
While the ER is designed for life-saving surgery and trauma, Sahara West Urgent Care focuses on high-quality, efficient diagnostics for acute illness. We offer on-site testing to ensure you get the right answers quickly, saving you time and high hospital costs. If our providers determine your condition is a surgical emergency, like appendicitis, we will stabilize you and coordinate your transfer to the appropriate hospital specialist.
Unsure if your stomach pain requires a doctor? Book your appointment online or walk into Sahara West Urgent Care today for an expert evaluation.
