GENERAL HEALTH CONCERN

Stomach Pain

Also called: stomach pain, stomach ache, tummy pain, belly pain, abdominal pain, bloating

Stomach pain is a broad term for discomfort, aching or cramping felt anywhere in the abdomen. It may be caused by temporary digestive problems, but persistent, severe or unusual abdominal pain can sometimes indicate a condition requiring medical assessment.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Indigestion, infection, inflammation and digestive conditions

TREATED BY

Surgery when indicated, medication and dietary management

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Abdominal pain can originate from many different organs and tissues, which is why the location, type and duration of pain can provide important clues to its cause. The stomach, intestines, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, kidneys and urinary system can all produce pain felt within the abdomen. Common short-term causes include indigestion, trapped wind, constipation and gastroenteritis. Food intolerances and temporary digestive disturbances can also cause cramping, bloating or discomfort, particularly around meals.

Persistent or recurring stomach pain can have a wider range of causes. Acid reflux, gastritis and stomach ulcers may produce discomfort or burning in the upper abdomen, while irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause recurring abdominal pain associated with changes in bowel habits. Gallstones, kidney stones, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, diverticular disease and pancreatic conditions can also cause abdominal symptoms. Depending on the individual, reproductive and pelvic conditions such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis may produce pain that is perceived as lower abdominal or stomach pain.

The pattern of pain is often as important as its location. Sudden severe pain has different potential causes from mild discomfort that gradually develops over several weeks. Pain that moves, repeatedly occurs after eating, wakes someone from sleep or occurs alongside vomiting, fever, jaundice, bowel changes, urinary symptoms, bleeding or unexplained weight loss may require further investigation. Because abdominal pain has such a wide range of possible causes, persistent symptoms should not automatically be attributed to indigestion or diet without considering the overall pattern and accompanying symptoms.

How far along is it?

Early

Temporary aching, cramping or discomfort occurs occasionally and may be associated with eating, indigestion, bloating, constipation or a short-term digestive disturbance.

Moderate

Pain occurs repeatedly or lasts longer than expected. It may be associated with ongoing bloating, nausea, changes in bowel habits, reflux or discomfort after eating and may begin to affect everyday activities.

Advanced

Pain becomes severe, rapidly worsens or occurs alongside warning signs such as persistent vomiting, fever, significant tenderness, bleeding, jaundice or unexplained weight loss. Urgent investigation may be required depending on the symptoms.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Stomach surgeries→Intestinal surgery→Gallbladder removal→

Professional assessment is worthwhile when stomach pain persists, repeatedly returns, progressively worsens or interferes with eating, sleeping or normal activities. Pain accompanied by persistent changes in bowel habits, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, recurrent vomiting, urinary symptoms, jaundice or blood in the stool should also be investigated.

Seek urgent medical attention for sudden or severe abdominal pain, particularly if the abdomen becomes very tender, swollen or rigid, or if the pain occurs with persistent vomiting, high fever, fainting, confusion or significant bleeding. Vomiting blood or passing black, tar-like stools also requires urgent assessment.

Severe abdominal pain during pregnancy or when pregnancy is possible, particularly with vaginal bleeding, dizziness, shoulder-tip pain or fainting, also requires urgent medical assessment.

Quick Questions:

What are the most common causes of stomach pain?

Common causes include indigestion, trapped wind, constipation, gastroenteritis and other temporary digestive disturbances. Persistent pain can also be associated with conditions affecting the stomach, bowel, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys or pelvic organs.

When should I worry about stomach pain?

Seek medical advice when pain is persistent, repeatedly returns, becomes progressively worse or occurs with symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, bowel changes, vomiting or bleeding. Sudden severe pain or significant illness requires urgent assessment.

Why does my stomach hurt after eating?

Pain after eating can be associated with indigestion, reflux, gastritis, food intolerances or digestive conditions. Gallbladder problems can also cause pain after meals. Frequent or significant post-meal pain should be assessed to determine its cause.

Can stress cause stomach pain?

Yes. The brain and digestive system are closely connected, and stress can influence gut movement, sensitivity and symptoms. It can contribute to abdominal discomfort and conditions such as IBS, but persistent pain should not automatically be assumed to be caused by stress.