Causes Of Stomach Pain

What is Stomach Pain?

Stomach pain is defined as discomfort or other unpleasant sensations in the abdomen. Almost everyone will experience a stomachache at some point in their life.

The majority of causes of stomach pain do not cause concern, and your doctor can easily diagnose and solve the condition. However, it can occasionally be a sign of a serious illness that necessitates medical attention.

Common Types of Stomach Pain

• Acute pain develops over a few hours or days and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
• Chronic pain can last for weeks, months, or even years, and it can come and go.
• Progressive pain worsens over time and is frequently accompanied by other symptoms.

Common Causes of Stomach Pain

Abdominal pain, whether mild or severe, can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, you could have indigestion, constipation, a stomach virus, or menstrual cramps if you’re a woman.

Other possible causes can be;

• Erythematous mucosa in the antrum
• IBS – Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Food allergies
• Food poisoning
• Acidity due to particular food or drink
• UTI – Urinary Tract Infection
• An abdominal muscle pull or strain

Some serious underlying causes can arise stomach pain as a symptom;

• Hernia
• Stones in the kidney
• Endometriosis
• GERD is the abbreviation for (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
• Appendicitis
• Diverticulitis
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (swelling in the main artery of the abdomen)
• Obstruction or blockage of the bowel
• Stomach, pancreas, liver, bile duct, gallbladder, or immune cell cancer
• Cancer of the ovaries or cysts of the ovaries
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
• A blocked blood vessel causes low blood flow to your intestines.
• Ectopic pregnancy

Diagnosis of Stomach Pain

Because there are so many potential causes, your doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination. They will also ask you questions about your symptoms and the type of pain you are experiencing. Is it, for example, severe stabbing pain or a dull ache?

Other questions your doctor may ask you include;

• Is the pain distributed throughout your abdomen, or is it concentrated in one area?
• When does it become painful? Always? Is it more common in the morning or at night?
• How long does the pain last each time it comes and goes?
• Is it painful to eat certain foods or drink alcohol?
• Do you have menstrual cramps?
• How long have you been afflicted?
• Does the pain occasionally spread to your lower back, shoulder, groin, or buttocks?
• Do you take any prescription medications or herbal supplements?
• Are you expecting a child?
• Is there any activity that relieves the pain, such as eating or lying on one side?
• Is there any activity or position that makes the pain worse?
• Were you recently injured?
• Does your breath smell like mothballs?

Some investigations (tests) may be needed for the final diagnosis. These can include;

• Stool or urine tests
• Blood tests
• Barium swallows or enemas
• Endoscopy
• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• CT scan

Treatment of Stomach Pain

Treatment for abdominal pain varies depending on the cause and may include:

Medications are used to treat ulcers and infections, as well as to reduce inflammation and prevent acid reflux.

Surgery to treat an organ problem

Aspirin and ibuprofen are two over-the-counter pain relievers that can irritate your stomach and make your pain worse. Take them only if a doctor has diagnosed the cause of your stomach pain and recommends them.

Some Home Remedies and Tips for Stomach Pain

• Eat smaller portions more frequently.
• Try to eat slowly.
• Take more time to chew your foods
• Consume beverages at room temperature, try to avoid cold drinks.
• Avoid foods that cause gas or indigestion.
• Control your stress.
• Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided.
• After you eat, sit up straight.
• Engage in regular physical activity and go for a short walk after eating.

When to Worry About Stomach Pain

Consult your doctor if your abdominal pain is severe, does not go away, or returns. If your stomach hurts as a result of a recent injury or if you have any chest pain, call 911 right away.

You should also contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have any of the following symptoms in addition to the pain:

• Fever
• I can’t eat for more than two days.
• Signs of dehydration include infrequent urination, dark-colored urine, and extreme thirst.
• You can’t have a bowel movement if you’re also vomiting.
• When you pee, you may experience pain, or you may need to urinate frequently.
• Vomiting blood
• Take note of any bloody or black, tarry bowel movements.
• Having difficulty breathing
• Constantly vomit
• Have you noticed any swelling in your abdomen?
• Have a yellow complexion
• Are you expecting a child?
• Have you experienced unexplained weight loss?

Takeaway

Stomach pain is quite common nowadays. But you’ve to understand which one is dangerous and which one is not. If any kind of stomach pain persists for more than 1 day, make sure you contacted a doctor. Don’t try any medication at home by yourself.

Author

Jesus M Martinez