Abdominal discomfort is typically caused by digestive issues. The entire belly may ache because of discomfort in any organ or region of the abdomen. Abdominal pain is the name for the discomfort or pain felt between the pelvic area and the chest. There are several common causes of stomach discomfort besides indigestion and muscular strain.
Achy, crampy, sporadic, dull, or severe feelings in the abdomen are all possible. Abdominal discomfort can be intense, have a fast onset, and can last for a long period. By comprehending the characteristics of pain, such as its location, time, and length, the diagnosis of the pain may be made. Bacterial and viral infections that damage the stomach and intestine can produce severe abdominal discomfort.
Below are the 7 most common causes of abdominal pain that you should know about.
1. Irritable bowel syndrome
IBS is a common digestive issue that causes constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and stomach cramps. These symptoms often come and go throughout time and might last for a few days, a few weeks, or even several months. Typically, it's a lifetime issue. It may be incredibly annoying to deal with and significantly affect how you live your life. Although there is no cure, medication and lifestyle changes can usually help relieve the symptoms.
2. Gastritis
Gastritis is a general term for a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastritis is usually caused by bacteria H.pylori, the same bacteria that is linked to ulcers. Alcohol abuse, chronic stress, and an unhealthy diet are other factors that might lead to or increase your risk of gastritis.
Acute gastritis develops fast, while chronic gastritis develops gradually. Gastritis sometimes causes ulcers and raises the risk of stomach cancer. However, gastritis is typically not severe and responds well to treatment.
3. Gas
Bacteria present in the small intestine break down foods and lead to the production of gas. Sharp abdominal discomfort may result from an increase in gas pressure in the intestines. The gas also results in burps, tightness, and spasms in the abdomen. The foods that often trigger gas include dairy products, although other cereals, such as oats, can also cause gas. Some of the symptoms of gas may be relieved by over-the-counter medications.
4. GERD
Chronic acid reflux is a long-standing symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is the primary source of stomach discomfort, nausea, and heartburn. The esophagus can become inflamed, which is only one of several issues associated with GERD. There are treatments available for this typical stomach issue. If you experience GERD, make sure to consult a gastroenterologist for a comprehensive examination.
5. Celiac disease and Crohn’s disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition caused by gluten (a protein found in many grains including barley and wheat) intolerance. This results in inflammation of the small intestine and stomach discomfort. Diarrhea and bloating are frequent signs. This issue causes malnutrition, which causes weight loss and severe fatigue. If you have gluten intolerance, you should avoid eating gluten-containing foods.
6. Stomach flu
Stomach flu is a condition also known as gastroenteritis. Symptoms of gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in addition to stomach pain. The symptoms of stomach flu often go away in a few days. If symptoms last for more than two days, they can be signs of serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. If your symptoms bother you, you should consult a doctor.
7. Acid reflux
Acid reflux is the backward movement of stomach acids towards the throat. Abdominal discomfort and burning in the stomach are usually caused by acid reflux. Cramps or bloating are two of the main symptoms that affect the abdomen.