Stomach pain, also known as a stomach ache, is a common experience for most people. While often not serious and resolving on its own within a few days, it’s important to understand the potential causes and know when to seek help. This guide will explore common reasons for stomach pain, what you can do to relieve discomfort, and when it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.
Common Causes of Stomach Pain
Stomach pain can manifest in various ways, and the type of pain can sometimes indicate the underlying cause. Here are some common types of stomach ache and their possible common causes:
| Type of Stomach Ache | Possible Condition | What Might Help |
|---|---|---|
| Feeling Bloated, Farting a Lot | Trapped Wind (Flatulence) | Gentle exercise, over-the-counter remedies like simethicone, avoiding gas-producing foods (beans, cabbage, onions), drinking peppermint tea. |
| Full & Bloated After Eating, Heartburn, Nausea | Indigestion | Antacids, smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods (fatty, spicy, acidic foods), eating slowly, not lying down immediately after eating, over-the-counter indigestion remedies. |
| Difficulty Pooping | Constipation | Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), drink plenty of water, regular exercise, over-the-counter laxatives (if needed and used as directed), prune juice. |
| Watery Stool, Nausea, Vomiting | Stomach Bug (Viral Gastroenteritis) or Food Poisoning | Stay hydrated with clear fluids (water, broth, electrolyte solutions), rest, avoid solid foods until symptoms improve, practice good hygiene to prevent spread (handwashing). For food poisoning, allow the body to naturally expel toxins, seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or prolonged. |
Seeking Help from a Pharmacist
For many instances of stomach pain, a pharmacist can provide valuable advice and over-the-counter solutions. Consult a pharmacist if you are experiencing stomach ache and need help with:
- Identifying potential causes: Pharmacists can assess your symptoms and help you understand what might be causing your stomach pain based on your description and other symptoms.
- Recommending treatments: They can suggest appropriate over-the-counter medications and remedies to alleviate your discomfort, such as antacids for indigestion, or laxatives for constipation.
- Guidance on medicines: Pharmacists can advise on medications for constipation and indigestion, ensuring you use them safely and effectively.
Find a pharmacy (This link is from the original article and can be kept for UK audience, consider replacing or adding a generic link for broader audience if needed).
When to See a Doctor: Non-Urgent and Urgent Situations
While many cases of stomach pain are manageable at home or with pharmacist advice, it’s crucial to recognize when to seek medical attention from a doctor (GP – General Practitioner) or even emergency services (A&E – Accident & Emergency).
Non-Urgent Advice: See a GP if:
- Worsening Pain: Your stomach ache becomes significantly worse quickly.
- Persistent or Recurring Pain: Stomach pain or bloating doesn’t go away or keeps returning.
- Swallowing Difficulties: You experience stomach pain along with problems swallowing food.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: You are losing weight without intentionally trying to.
- Changes in Urination: You suddenly pee more often or less often than usual.
- Painful Urination: Peeing becomes suddenly painful.
- Bleeding or Abnormal Discharge: You experience bleeding from your bottom or vagina, or have unusual vaginal discharge.
- Persistent Diarrhea: Diarrhea that does not improve after a few days.
Immediate Action Required: Call Emergency Services or Go to A&E if:
- Sudden or Severe Pain: Stomach pain comes on very suddenly or is excruciatingly severe.
- Tenderness to Touch: Your stomach is very painful to touch.
- Vomiting Blood: You are vomiting blood or your vomit looks like coffee grounds.
- Bloody or Black Stool: Your stool is bloody or black, sticky, and extremely foul-smelling.
- Inability to Urinate: You cannot pee at all.
- Inability to Pass Gas or Stool: You cannot poop or fart.
- Breathing Difficulty: You are struggling to breathe.
- Chest Pain: You experience chest pain.
- Diabetes and Vomiting: You have diabetes and are vomiting.
- Collapse: Someone has collapsed.
Understanding Pain Severity:
It’s helpful to differentiate between different levels of pain to assess the urgency of your situation:
- Severe Pain: Constant, overwhelming pain that makes it difficult to think, talk, sleep, or move.
- Moderate Pain: Persistent pain that makes it hard to concentrate or sleep, but you can still manage basic activities.
- Mild Pain: Intermittent pain that is annoying but doesn’t prevent you from doing daily activities.
Important Note: Do not drive yourself to the emergency room (A&E). Ask someone to drive you or call emergency services for an ambulance. Bring a list of any medications you are currently taking with you to any medical appointment.
Less Common Causes of Stomach Pain
While the above are common causes, stomach pain can also be a symptom of less frequent conditions. It is crucial to avoid self-diagnosing and consult a GP if you are concerned about your stomach pain.
| Type of Stomach Ache | Possible Condition |
|---|---|
| Pain and Cramps During Periods | Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea) |
| Sudden Pain in the Lower Right-Hand Side | Appendicitis |
| Ongoing Cramps, Bloating, Diarrhea, Constipation | Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) |
| Severe Pain Radiating to Groin, Nausea, Painful Urination | Kidney Stones |
| Severe, Hours-Long Pain in Upper Abdomen (Center or Right Ribs) | Gallstones |
This information is for general knowledge and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
Page last reviewed: 26 May 2023 (This information can be removed or updated if needed for the new article)
Next review due: 26 May 2026 (This information can be removed or updated if needed for the new article)
