STOMACH PAIN

SYMPTOMS

abdomenal-pain

PAIN IN THE ABDOMEN

Abdominal pain can occur anywhere in the belly region – between your ribs and pelvis.4 Abdominal pain can be crampy, achy, dull, intermittent, or sharp.9
cramping-discomfort

CRAMPING OR DISCOMFORT

Cramp-like pain and discomfort in the stomach can be caused by gas, bloating, or constipation. This pain usually resolves on its own without treatment. If the cramping persists; it may be a sign of a more serious medical condition.9

FAQS

Gastrointestinal spasms (or stomach spasms) are contractions of your abdominal muscles, stomach, or intestines, and can range from feeling like a slight muscle twitch or stomach cramps. Usually, stomach spasms are harmless and can be relieved with treatment.10
  • Muscle strain10
  • Dehydration10
  • Gas10
  • Constipation10
  • Inflammatory bowel disease10
  • Irritable bowel syndrome10
  • Gastritis and gastroenteritis10

Most stomach spasms are harmless and go away without further treatment. See a doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms with your stomach spasms:

  • Vomiting10
  • Blood in your bowel movements10
  • Severe pain, especially chest pain10
  • Long-lasting or recurring stomach spasms10
  • Fever10
  • Shortness of breath10

Abdominal pain is discomfort in the belly region — between your ribs and your pelvis. Pain may occur in your digestive system, abdominal wall, and the skin and muscles that make up the outer shell of your abdomen. You may also experience pain coming from elsewhere like your chest, pelvis or back.4

Abdominal pain can feel different depending on the cause of the pain. It may feel:

  • Mild or severe4
  • Dull or sharp4
  • Burning or achy4
  • Crampy or colicky4
  • Constant or intermittent4
  • Localised (in one spot) or generalised (all over)4

Most people will experience stomach pain at some point. Usually, it is not serious and will resolve on its own. In some cases, stomach pain can be a sign of serious illness.4 If your stomach pain persists, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Less serious causes of abdominal pain include:

  • Indigestion4
  • Gas and gas pain4
  • Constipation4
  • Food allergies and intolerances4
  • Food poisoning4
  • Irritable bowel syndrome8
  • Stomach virus8

 

More serious causes of abdominal pain include:

  • Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)4
  • Peptic ulcer disease4
  • Chronic acid reflux (GERD)4
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)4
  • Appendicitis8
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm8
  • Bowel blockage8
  • Cancer8
  • Gastroesophageal reflux8

During your reproductive cycle, you may experience occasional pain from:

  • Menstrual cramps4
  • Ovulation pain4
  • Bowel rest. Avoid solid foods or eat easy-to-digest foods like crackers or bananas.4
  • Hydration. Sip water or other clear fluids.4
  • Heat therapy. Relieve discomfort with a hot water bottle or bath.4
  • Home remedies. Relieve indigestion with ginger or try peppermint to help relax your intestinal muscles.4


If you do not know what is causing your abdominal pain, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Yes. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones and neurotransmitters that can affect the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut, causing gastrointestinal discomfort, which can cause stomach pain.7

Yes. Gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines can sometimes cause uncomfortable pressure and stomach pain.6

  • Swallowing air6
  • Excessive crying6
  • Minor digestive problems such as constipation6
  • An immature digestive tract6
  • A gastrointestinal virus which can cause gas, vomiting, and diarrhea6
  • Trying new foods. For some infants, frequent gas may be a sign of a food sensitivity6

If your pain is unexplained, persistent, or severe, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
See your doctor if your stomach pain is accompanied by any of these symptoms:

  • Persistent fever4
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting4
  • Blood in your stools, urine or vomit4
  • Swelling and tenderness to the touch4
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)4
  • Pain in any other part of your body4
  • Shortness of breath or symptoms that get worse with exertion4