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Stomach Pain – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Stomach pain refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. It is very common and often harmless, but can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition.

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Things worth knowing about "Stomach Pain"

Stomach pain refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. It is very common and often harmless, but can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition.

What Is Stomach Pain?

Stomach pain, also referred to as gastralgia or epigastric pain, describes discomfort or pain felt in the upper abdominal region where the stomach is located. It is one of the most common complaints across all age groups. The pain can range from dull or cramping to burning or sharp, and may be short-lived or persistent.

Causes

Stomach pain has a wide range of causes, from everyday lifestyle factors to more serious medical conditions.

Common Causes

Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, stress, alcohol, or certain medications.
Peptic ulcer (stomach ulcer): Sores in the stomach lining, frequently linked to Helicobacter pylori infection or the regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen.
Acid reflux and heartburn: Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation.
Food intolerances: Such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity (coeliac disease).
Functional dyspepsia (irritable stomach): Stomach discomfort without a detectable organic cause.
Stress and emotional strain: The stomach is highly sensitive to psychological stress.
Food poisoning: Caused by contaminated or spoiled food.

Less Common or Serious Causes

Stomach cancer (gastric carcinoma)
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
Appendicitis
Kidney problems

Symptoms

Stomach pain is often accompanied by other symptoms that can help identify the underlying cause:

Nausea and vomiting
Bloating or a feeling of fullness
Belching or heartburn
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea or constipation
In severe cases: blood in stool or vomiting blood

When to See a Doctor

Mild and short-lived stomach pain is generally not a cause for concern. However, medical attention is strongly recommended if:

the pain is severe or persists for more than a few days,
there is blood in the stool or vomit,
unexplained weight loss occurs,
swallowing difficulties are present,
pain wakes you from sleep at night,
fever accompanies the abdominal pain.

Diagnosis

To identify the cause of stomach pain, a doctor will first take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination. Depending on the suspected cause, further tests may include:

Gastroscopy (endoscopy): A camera is used to directly examine the stomach lining.
Ultrasound (sonography): To evaluate abdominal organs.
Blood tests: To check for signs of infection or inflammation, including Helicobacter pylori.
Breath test or stool test: To detect Helicobacter pylori infection.
X-ray or CT scan: If a more serious condition is suspected.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the stomach pain.

General Measures

Eating light, easily digestible foods (e.g., plain rice, toast, steamed vegetables)
Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, fatty foods, and spicy meals
Reducing stress and getting adequate rest
Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions

Medication

Antacids: Neutralize stomach acid and provide short-term relief from heartburn.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid production long-term, used for gastritis or reflux disease.
Antibiotics: Used to eradicate Helicobacter pylori infection (eradication therapy).
Antispasmodics: Relax stomach muscles and relieve cramping pain.
Prokinetics: Help the stomach empty more efficiently, relieving bloating and nausea.

Prevention

Many cases of stomach pain can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle:

A balanced, stomach-friendly diet
Regular mealtimes and adequate fluid intake
Limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption
Managing stress through exercise, relaxation techniques, or therapy
Using stomach-damaging medications (NSAIDs) with caution and only when necessary

References

Malfertheiner P., Megraud F. et al. - Management of Helicobacter pylori infection: the Maastricht V/Florence Consensus Report. Gut, 2017.
Tack J., Talley N.J. et al. - Functional Gastroduodenal Disorders. Gastroenterology, 2006.
World Health Organization (WHO) - Gastrointestinal Diseases Overview. WHO Technical Report, Geneva.

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