Abdominal pain can arise from a variety of conditions, ranging from minor indigestion to more serious conditions. Some of the most common causes of stomach pain include:
- Digestive Issues:
- Indigestion (Dyspepsia): A feeling of fullness, bloating, or discomfort in the upper abdomen after eating.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infections, alcohol use, or excessive use of pain relievers (NSAIDs).
- Acid Reflux (GERD): A condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing burning pain (heartburn).
- Constipation: Difficulty passing stools, which can cause bloating and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
- Infections:
- Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis): A viral or bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramping.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection: A bacterial infection that can cause ulcers and stomach discomfort.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
A chronic condition affecting the large intestine, leading to symptoms like bloating, cramping, diarrhea, or constipation.
- Abdominal Muscle Strain:
Overuse or injury to the muscles in the abdominal area can cause localized pain, especially during movement.
- Gallstones:
Solid particles that form in the gallbladder and can block bile flow, leading to intense pain in the upper abdomen, particularly after eating fatty foods.
- Appendicitis:
An inflammation of the appendix that causes sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. It often requires surgical removal of the appendix.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) or Kidney Stones:
Infections or stones in the urinary system can cause discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen, especially during urination.
- Ovarian Cysts (Women):
Fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries and can cause sharp or dull abdominal pain, often on one side.
- Food Intolerance or Allergy:
Certain foods may cause bloating, pain, or discomfort due to an intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance) or an allergy.
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD):
Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to persistent abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea.
- Hernia:
A condition in which part of the intestine bulges through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall, causing pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects.