Stomach Pain: Causes, Types & Treatment

What Is Stomach Pain?

Stomach pain refers to any pain or discomfort felt in the abdomen, the area between the chest and the pelvis. People often describe it as tummy pain, belly pain, abdominal ache, or stomach ache.

It can be:

• Mild or severe
• Sudden or long-lasting
• Sharp, dull, burning, or cramping

Understanding where the pain is, how it feels, and what other symptoms are present helps identify the cause.

Types of Stomach Pain

1. Sharp or Stabbing Stomach Pain

This type of pain comes suddenly and feels intense.

• May indicate gas trapped in the intestines
• Could be due to appendicitis, kidney stones, or gallstones if severe

2. Dull or Aching Stomach Pain

A continuous, mild pain that lingers.

• Common in indigestion, gastritis, or constipation
• Often related to eating habits

3. Cramping Stomach Pain

Feels like tightening or squeezing.

• Common with gas, bloating, diarrhea, or IBS
• Often comes and goes

4. Burning Stomach Pain

A burning sensation in the upper abdomen.

• Usually caused by acidity, acid reflux, or stomach ulcers
• Often worsens after spicy or oily food

5. Chronic Stomach Pain

Pain that lasts for weeks or months.

• Can be linked to IBS, gastritis, ulcers, or food intolerances
• Needs proper medical evaluation

Location-Based Stomach Pain and What It Means

Upper Abdominal Pain

• Acidity or acid reflux
• Gastritis
• Stomach ulcers
• Gallbladder problems

Lower Abdominal Pain

• Constipation
• Urinary tract infection
• IBS
• Appendicitis (usually right side)

Left Side Stomach Pain

• Gas buildup
• Constipation
• Kidney-related issues

Right Side Stomach Pain

• Appendicitis
• Gallstones
• Liver problems

Pain Around the Belly Button

• Indigestion
• Gas
• Early appendicitis
• Intestinal infections

Common Causes of Stomach Pain

1. Gas and Bloating

One of the most common causes of stomach pain.

• Caused by swallowing air or poor digestion
• Leads to cramping and fullness

2. Acidity and Acid Reflux

• Burning pain in the upper stomach
• Often worse after meals or at night

3. Indigestion

• Happens after overeating or eating spicy, oily food
• Causes discomfort, heaviness, and mild pain

4. Constipation

• Leads to lower abdominal pain and bloating
• Common due to low fiber intake or dehydration

5. Food Poisoning

• Caused by contaminated food or water
• Pain usually comes with diarrhea, vomiting, and fever

6. Stomach or Intestinal Infections

• Viral or bacterial infections
• Pain is often crampy and associated with loose motions

7. Gastritis

• Inflammation of the stomach lining
• Causes burning pain, nausea, and bloating

8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Chronic condition causing abdominal pain, gas, constipation, or diarrhea
• Pain improves after passing stools

9. Appendicitis

• Sudden pain starting near the belly button and moving to the right side
• A medical emergency

10. Gallstones or Kidney Stones

• Severe, sharp pain on one side of the abdomen
• Often comes in waves

Stomach Pain with Other Symptoms

• Stomach pain and diarrhea: Infection, food poisoning, IBS
• Stomach pain and vomiting: Food poisoning, gastritis
• Stomach pain and nausea: Acidity, indigestion, pregnancy
• Stomach pain and fever: Infection or inflammation
• Bloating and stomach pain: Gas, constipation, indigestion

Trigger-Based Stomach Pain

• Stomach pain after eating: Indigestion, acidity, food intolerance
• Stomach pain on empty stomach: Acid buildup or ulcers
• Stomach pain at night: Acid reflux or gastritis
• Stomach pain after spicy or fatty food: Poor digestion or acidity

Stomach Pain in Different Age Groups

Stomach Pain in Adults

Mostly related to lifestyle, diet, stress, or digestion problems.

Stomach Pain in Children

Often due to gas, constipation, or infections—but persistent pain should not be ignored.

Stomach Pain in Women

May be linked to periods, pregnancy, or hormonal changes.

Stomach Pain During Pregnancy

Usually due to gas or stretching of muscles, but severe pain needs medical attention.

How Is Stomach Pain Diagnosed?

Doctors may suggest:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests
• Stool or urine tests
• Ultrasound of the abdomen
• CT scan in severe or unclear cases

Stomach Pain Treatment Options

Medical Treatment

• Medicines for gas, acidity, or infection
• Pain relief medications
• Antibiotics (if infection is present)

Lifestyle-Based Treatment

• Eating smaller meals
• Avoiding trigger foods
• Managing stress

Home Remedies for Stomach Pain

• Drink warm water
• Eat light, bland food
• Ginger or ajwain for gas
• Avoid spicy and oily food
• Rest and proper hydration

When to See a Doctor for Stomach Pain

Seek medical help if:

• Pain is severe or sudden
• Pain lasts more than 2–3 days
• Pain is accompanied by fever or vomiting
• There is blood in stools
• Stomach pain keeps coming back

Key Facts About Stomach Pain

• Most stomach pain is not serious and improves on its own
• Gas and acidity are the most common causes
• Location and type of pain provide important clues
• Persistent or severe pain should never be ignored
• Early diagnosis helps prevent complications

Final Thoughts

Stomach pain is common, but it shouldn’t be ignored—especially if it keeps returning or feels severe. Understanding your symptoms, identifying triggers, and seeking timely medical advice can make a big difference in your digestive health.

If your stomach pain feels unusual, persistent, or worrying, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

FAQs

Why does my stomach hurt suddenly?

Sudden stomach pain is often caused by gas, indigestion, or food poisoning. Severe pain may need medical evaluation.

Can gas cause severe stomach pain?

Yes, trapped gas can cause sharp, cramping pain that may feel severe but usually improves with time.

What causes stomach pain after eating?

Indigestion, acidity, food intolerance, or overeating are common reasons for pain after meals.

What is the best medicine for stomach pain?

It depends on the cause. Medicines for gas, acidity, or infection are used based on symptoms.

Is stomach pain serious?

Most stomach pain is mild, but severe or persistent pain should be checked by a doctor.

How long does stomach pain last?

Mild pain may last a few hours. Chronic or recurring pain may need treatment.

What should I do for stomach pain at home?

Drink fluids, eat light food, avoid triggers, and rest. If pain persists, consult a doctor.

Can constipation cause stomach pain?

Yes, constipation often causes lower abdominal pain and bloating.

When is stomach pain an emergency?

If pain is severe, sudden, or associated with fever, vomiting, or blood in stool.

Can stress cause stomach pain?

Yes, stress can affect digestion and trigger stomach pain, especially in IBS.