Here's What May Be Causing That Stabbing Pain in Your Upper Stomach

A fever is one of the symptoms doctors call "red flag symptoms," Dr. Brauning explains. "If you have stabbing pain anywhere, and you also have a fever, you need a doctor," she says.

Fevers are often a sign of infection, and if it's accompanied by stomach pain, then it could indicate a serious infection like appendicitis, which is inflammation of the appendix, or colitis, inflammation of the colon.