What do cramping sharp pain and tenderness in and around the belly button area indicate?
Patient: HI I have been experiencing pain behind my belly button awhile now. It s not always there but every once in awhile. It s like a cramping sharip pain. Also feels tender in the cramping location. Today I felt another sharp cramping pain under my right rib. Haven t experienced that before or at least not recently. What could it be Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  * As per my clinical experience, the sharp pain with cramps around  belly area may be due to early appendicitis or other issues. * I recommend to undertake lab tests with complete blood counts and CT scan of the abdomen & pelvis for best evaluation of the cause and manage accordingly.  Hope I have answered your query.  Let me know if I can assist you further.