Stomach Pain: Causes, Home Remedies and Prevention Tips

Stomach pain is a common issue we all face at some point in our lives. Occurring anywhere between the chest and pelvis, stomach pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, nausea, or indigestion. The causes of stomach pain vary greatly and may range from minor issues such as indigestion, to more serious underlying causes such as tumours and cancers. Understanding the nature of your stomach pain can help you choose the right remedy and know when to seek medical attention.

Causes of Stomach Pain

Stomach pain can stem from various causes, ranging from minor health to major, life-threatening concerns. Here is a quick look at some common causes of stomach pain:

Digestive Issues

Digestive issues are the most common cause of stomach pain. These include:

• Indigestion: Caused by overeating, eating too fast, consuming fatty or spicy foods, or excessive consumption of alcohol.
• Gas and Bloating: Often caused due to swallowing air along with food, or having foods that produce gas, such as beans and carbonated drinks.
• Constipation: Can be caused by certain medications, not having enough fibre or liquids in diet, and problems with digestive function.

Infections

Infections are another common cause of stomach pain. Common infections that can cause stomach pain include:

• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Food Poisoning: Eating contaminated or decaying food can cause infections, resulting in cramps, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Inflammatory Conditions

Certain inflammatory conditions can also cause stomach pain. These include but are not limited to:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that can cause bloating, cramps, and changes in bowel habits. 
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis that cause chronic digestive tract inflammation. 
• Gastritis: Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to infection, alcohol abuse, or overuse of NSAIDs (painkillers). 

Ulcers and Acid-Related Disorders

Certain ulcers and acid-related conditions can also cause abdominal pain. These include:

• Peptic Ulcers: Sores in the stomach or small intestine, often linked to bacterial infections or overuse of NSAIDs.
• Acid Reflux (GERD): Stomach acid flowing back into the oesophagus, causing upper abdominal discomfort.

Tumours and Cancers

Tumours and cancers are another common cause of stomach pain. Unfortunately, the symptom is often ignored by people, which delays diagnosis. Here are some of the tumours and cancers that can cause stomach pain:

• Gastric (Stomach) Cancer: Causes pain, unintentional weight loss, nausea, and bloating.
• Liver Cancer: Pain in the upper right abdomen, typically accompanied by jaundice and fatigue.
• Pancreatic Cancer: Pain in the upper abdomen radiating to the back, jaundice, and appetite loss.
• Colorectal Cancer: Cramping, bloating, blood in stool, and changes in bowel habits.
• Ovarian Cancer: Abdominal or pelvic pain, bloating, and feeling of fullness.
• Small Intestinal Tumours: Intermittent abdominal pain, nausea, and blood in stool.
• Esophageal Cancer: Can cause stomach pain, especially after eating.
• Lymphoma: Abdominal swelling and pain, often with fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

Food Allergies and Intolerances

Stomach pain is often linked to food allergies or intolerances, which affect how your body processes certain substances. Here are some common ones:

• Lactose Intolerance: The inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products, can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhoea after consuming milk or cheese.
• Gluten Intolerance (Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity): Individuals with this sensitivity may experience abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea when consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
• Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where ingesting gluten causes damage to the small intestine, leading to severe abdominal pain, bloating, and malabsorption of nutrients.
• Fructose Intolerance: Difficulty digesting fructose, a sugar found in fruits, honey, and high-fructose corn syrup, can cause stomach cramps, gas, and diarrhoea.
• Histamine Intolerance: An inability to break down histamine, a compound found in aged foods, wine, and certain cheeses, can result in symptoms like stomach pain, headaches, and nausea.
• Soy Intolerance: Some people have trouble digesting soy and soy products, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and cramps.
• Shellfish Allergy: An allergic reaction to shellfish can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and even anaphylaxis in severe cases.
• Nuts Allergy: Allergies to tree nuts or peanuts can cause digestive issues including stomach pain, as well as more severe allergic reactions.
• Egg Allergy: Eggs can cause stomach pain, cramps, and nausea in individuals with an allergy, along with potential other allergic symptoms.
• Food Additives and Preservatives: Certain additives and preservatives in processed foods may trigger digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Home Remedies for an Upset Stomach

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help with nausea and digestive discomfort. 
• Peppermint Tea: Peppermint tea has menthol which relaxes stomach muscles, helping reduce cramps and bloating.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A spoonful of apple cider vinegar diluted in water can help control stomach acid and indigestion.
• Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has soothing properties that ease stomach pain and relax the digestive tract.
• Bananas: Bananas are gentle on the stomach and can help restore electrolytes and relieve nausea or diarrhoea.
• Yoghourt: Yoghourt is a great source of probiotics that replenish gut bacteria, aiding digestion and soothing an upset stomach.
• Rice Water: Drinking the water leftover from boiling rice can help soothe an irritated stomach and reduce inflammation.
• Fennel Seeds: Eating fennel seeds or having fennel tea can relax digestive muscles, relieving gas and bloating.
• Warm Compress: Using a warm compress or heating pad on the abdomen can help improve blood flow to the stomach and reduce cramps.
• BRAT Diet: Following a diet of Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast can help calm an upset stomach by providing easily digestible foods that are gentle on the gut.

While these remedies can offer quick relief from stomach pain and discomfort, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult a doctor.

Tips to Prevent Stomach Pain

Preventing stomach pain often comes down to maintaining healthy habits and being mindful of your digestive system. Here are some effective prevention tips:

• Eat Slowly: Chew food thoroughly and avoid overeating to reduce indigestion and bloating.
• Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and steer clear of foods that irritate your stomach, such as spicy, fatty, or processed meals.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support digestion and prevent constipation.
• Incorporate Probiotics: Include probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or supplements to maintain healthy gut flora.
• Manage Stress: Practise relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation, to reduce stress-related stomach issues.
• Regular Exercise: Moderate physical activity improves digestion and prevents bloating and constipation.
• Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can irritate the stomach lining and trigger acid reflux or ulcers if consumed in excess.
• Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, opt for smaller portions throughout the day to prevent overwhelming your digestive system.
• Wash Hands Regularly: Proper hygiene reduces the risk of stomach infections caused by bacteria or viruses.
• Be Mindful of Food Intolerances: If you suspect allergies or intolerances, consult a doctor and avoid problematic foods to prevent pain and discomfort.

By adopting these habits, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing stomach pain or an upset stomach.

When to See a Doctor?

It's important to seek medical attention for stomach pain if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Pain: Intense or persistent abdominal pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies.
• Accompanied Symptoms: Pain accompanied by other serious symptoms such as high fever, vomiting blood, or black, tarry stools.
• Chronic Discomfort: Ongoing or recurring pain that disrupts your daily life or worsens over time.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without a clear reason, which could indicate a serious underlying condition.
• Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing: Pain or discomfort that affects your ability to breathe or swallow properly.
• Swelling or Tenderness: Noticeable abdominal swelling or tenderness, which could signal an infection or other issues.
• Pain Radiating to Other Areas: Pain that spreads to the chest, back, or shoulders, which might be indicative of a more serious condition like a heart attack.
• Changes in Bowel Movements: Persistent diarrhoea or constipation, especially if accompanied by severe pain or blood in the stool.
• Pregnancy-Related Concerns: Pregnant women experiencing abdominal pain should seek medical advice to rule out complications.
• New or Severe Symptoms: Any new, severe, or worsening symptoms that you haven’t experienced before.

Immediate medical evaluation is crucial to determine the cause of your stomach pain and receive appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Taking control of your digestive health can make a world of difference in your quality of life. By recognising the signs of stomach pain, understanding its causes, and applying effective home remedies, you can often find relief and prevent future discomfort. However, persistent or severe symptoms call for medical intervention. If you’re experiencing ongoing stomach pain or need expert advice on managing your digestive health, the specialists at Max Hospitals are here to help. Our team of experienced gastroenterologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Don’t let stomach pain impact your life. Schedule an appointment with a specialist at Max Hospitals, and take the first step towards reclaiming your health.