Severe stabbing abdominal pain suddenly disappeared

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have had severe stomach pain which lasted about an hour. It was a stabbing pain which was worse with movement. I didn't have any gut pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, or any other digestive symptoms. I had a couple of antacids which didn't help, and a small drink of water. The pain suddenly got worse and then suddenly disappeared. I have been treated with omeprazole for reflux in the past, but I don't get heartburn any more. Is this something I should get checked out?

Dear Eve: You need to visit the emergency to get yourself checked at the earliest, because sudden disappearance of severe stabbing pain may be associated with acute appendicitis. There may be a possibility of burst appendicitis, which may have led to the sudden disappearance of pain. If that is the case you may require immediate surgery. Another possibility of such pain could be severe stress or anxiety. However, it would be best to visit emergency or your family doctor for accurate diagnosis.