Which condition is commonly associated with abdominal pain in older adults (70+ years)?

Abdominal pain in older adults can be attributed to various medical conditions, and it is essential to identify those that are most prevalent within this age group. Cholecystitis and bowel obstruction are indeed common causes of abdominal pain in individuals who are 70 years and older.

Cholecystitis, which is an inflammation of the gallbladder, often presents as a sharp pain in the upper right abdomen and is more frequent in older adults due to the increased incidence of gallstones and related complications as they age. Similarly, bowel obstruction can occur due to a range of factors, including scar tissue from previous surgeries, tumors, or diverticular disease, all of which are more common in the elderly. Both conditions can lead to significant morbidity if not promptly identified and treated.

In contrast, while gas and bloating are indeed common complaints, they are less likely to result in severe abdominal pain or necessitate surgical intervention compared to cholecystitis and bowel obstruction. Similarly, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and dyspepsia are common gastrointestinal disorders but are not typically associated with the acute complications that can arise from cholecystitis or bowel obstruction. Additionally, while appendicitis can occur in older adults, it is less