Why does my stomach hurt when I wake up? What to do about morning stomach pain. Discover the common reasons and effective remedies for abdominal discomfort upon waking.

Causes of Stomach Pain in the Morning

There are several potential reasons why your stomach may hurt when you wake up:

1. Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, occurs when stomach acid irritates the lining of your stomach, esophagus, or upper intestines. Factors like medication, obesity, stress, anxiety, alcohol, caffeine, and eating certain foods can trigger indigestion. Symptoms typically appear after eating, so you may experience stomach pain right after breakfast.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that can be exacerbated by stress, lack of sleep, or disruptions to your circadian rhythm. If you’ve had a poor night’s sleep, abdominal pain from IBS may be worse the next morning. Sleep disruption can also worsen GI symptoms and visceral hypersensitivity.

3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a more serious gastrointestinal condition characterized by chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease fall under the IBD umbrella. Symptoms include stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss.

4. Constipation

Constipation, defined as infrequent or difficult bowel movements, can lead to abdominal pain. Common causes include stress, lack of fiber, dehydration, and lack of physical activity.

5. Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation and potentially stomach pain. Chronic acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). One study found nearly half of GERD patients experience an acid reflux event within the first 20 minutes of waking up.

How to Stop Stomach Pain in the Morning

To alleviate morning stomach pain, you can try the following remedies:

Dietary Changes

Reduce your intake of alcohol, caffeine, spicy, and fatty foods, which can trigger indigestion. Eat smaller, slower meals and increase your fiber intake to help with constipation.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Manage stress and anxiety, get regular exercise, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule to help regulate your circadian rhythm and reduce IBS symptoms.

Medications and Supplements

Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin can provide temporary relief, while ginger ale and peppermint tea may also soothe stomach pain. For more chronic conditions like IBS or GERD, prescription medications may be necessary.

Falling Back Asleep with Stomach Pain

If your stomach pain wakes you up early, try the following strategies to help you fall back asleep:

Relaxation Techniques

Practice deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to calm your mind and body and promote sleep.

Avoid Stimulants

Steer clear of caffeine, alcohol, and screen time, which can all disrupt sleep. Instead, try a warm, non-caffeinated beverage like herbal tea.

Create a Conducive Sleep Environment

Ensure your bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet to facilitate restful sleep. You may also want to try using a white noise machine or earplugs.

When to See a Doctor

If your morning stomach pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. They can help identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Signs to Watch For

Seek medical attention if you experience:
– Frequent or severe stomach pain
– Unexplained weight loss
– Blood in your stool
– Difficulty swallowing
– Persistent nausea or vomiting

Optimize Your Sleep for Better Gut Health

Maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle is crucial for overall gut health and can help alleviate morning stomach pain. The RISE app can help you track your sleep patterns, identify areas for improvement, and implement science-backed strategies to optimize your sleep and circadian rhythm.

Key Takeaways

Morning stomach pain can have various causes, including indigestion, IBS, IBD, constipation, and acid reflux. Addressing the underlying issue through dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and, if necessary, medication can help provide relief. If the pain persists or worsens, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

Why Does My Stomach Hurt When I Wake Up? What to Do About It

When your alarm goes off in the morning, you should be waking up excited for a new day, or at least for the coffee that’s been brewing. But, instead, you’re struck down with stomach pain that makes it hard to get out of bed. 

If this is a rare occurrence, it’s probably nothing to worry about, and the pain should go away on its own soon enough. If, however, you’re regularly waking up with stomach pain, or your stomach pain wakes you up early, stopping you from getting a full night’s sleep, you need to find the fix and/or seek medical attention. 

Below, we’ll cover the common reasons your stomach might be hurting when you wake up and what you can do to fix it. Plus, we’ll share how the RISE app can help.

‍

What causes stomach pain in the morning?

How to stop stomach pain in the morning?

How to fall back to sleep when your stomach hurts?

What causes stomach pain at night?

When to see a doctor about stomach pain?

‍

What Causes Stomach Pain in the Morning?

Here’s what could be behind your morning stomach pain.  

1. Indigestion 

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is common. It happens when stomach acid irritates the lining of your stomach, the top part of your bowel, or your esophagus. 

It’s not a condition in its own right, however. It’s a symptom of a condition like acid reflux or ulcers.  

Medication, obesity, stress, anxiety, alcohol, caffeine, eating spicy or fatty foods, or eating too quickly can cause indigestion. Symptoms usually appear after eating, so you may get stomach pain right after breakfast. 

Symptoms of indigestion include: 

• Stomach pain 
• Heartburn 
• Bloating 
• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 

The fix: Cut down alcohol, caffeine, and your intake of spicy and fatty foods. Try eating smaller meals and eating more slowly, and keeping your stress and anxiety in check.

Over-the-counter pain relief like aspirin can help reduce pain in the moment, but these can also irritate your stomach. Ginger ale and peppermint tea are home remedies that may ease stomach pain. 

We’ve covered what helps with digestion and how to improve gut health naturally here. 

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) 

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. It can be triggered by stress, a lack of sleep, or being out of sync with your circadian rhythm — your body’s roughly 24-hour biological clock. 

If you’ve had a night of poor sleep, abdominal pain from IBS may be worse the next day. And sleep disruption can make GI symptoms and visceral hypersensitivity (pain in your visceral organs like your stomach) worse. Morning IBS symptoms are also worse after a night of poor sleep. 

Symptoms of IBS include:

• Stomach pain
• Cramps 
• Diarrhea 
• Constipation 
• Bloating 
• Nausea 

The fix: Keep your sleep debt low and circadian rhythm in check (more on how to do that soon) as these can trigger IBS and make symptoms worse. Avoid eating within two to three hours of bedtime and reduce how much fiber, fat, and spicy foods you eat. Exercise, lowering anxiety, and melatonin supplements can also help. 

To see more causes and treatments, check out how to sleep with IBS here. 

{{ cta }}

3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 

Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, is a more serious gastrointestinal disorder. It happens when your gastrointestinal tract is chronically inflamed. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease come under IBD. 

Symptoms of IBD include: 

• Stomach pain 
• Cramps 
• Diarrhea 
• Fatigue 
• Weight loss
• Blood in stool 

The fix: Speak to a doctor if you think you have IBD. Anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, and biologics (which neutralize inflammation-causing proteins) may be needed.

4. Constipation 

Constipation is infrequent bowel movements or having difficult bowel movements. It’s usually described as fewer than three bowel movements a week. 

Common causes of constipation include stress and anxiety, not eating enough fiber, not drinking enough water, or a lack of exercise.

Symptoms of constipation include: 

• Stomach pain 
• Having hard or lumpy stools 
• Straining to have a bowel movement 
• Pain when having a bowel movement 

The fix: Try lifestyle changes like doing more exercise, drinking more water, eating more fiber, and reducing your anxiety to ease constipation. Medications like laxatives can also help.    

5. Acid Reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Acid reflux is usually felt as a burning sensation in your chest, but you may also feel stomach pain. 

It happens when stomach acid flows back up your digestive tract into your esophagus. Chronic acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). 

One small study found almost half of GERD patients have an acid reflux event within the first 20 minutes of waking up.

Symptoms of acid reflux include: 

• Stomach pain
• Heartburn 
• Nausea 
• Bad breath
• A bad taste in your mouth 
• Bloating 

The fix: Try eating smaller and more frequent meals and avoid overeating, reducing your anxiety, losing weight if you’re overweight, avoiding eating too close to bedtime, and sleeping with your head elevated. You can also take over-the-counter medication like Prevacid, Nexium, or Prilosec, after consulting with your doctor. 

Sleeping on your left side may also help. A 2022 study found left-side sleeping helped those with GERD have more reflux-free nights. 

You can learn more about the best side to sleep on for digestion here and how to sleep with acid reflux here. 

6. Food Intolerances and Allergies 

You might have had something new for dinner last night — or accidentally consumed something you know you’re allergic to — and now you’ve woken up in pain or with an upset stomach.  

Allergies or intolerances to dairy, shellfish, wheat, gluten, soy, eggs, or nuts can cause stomach pain, as can celiac disease. 

Symptoms of food allergies include: 

• Stomach pain 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Hives
• Wheezing
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, or eyes 
• Diarrhea 

The fix: If you don’t know of any food allergies, keep a food diary to track what you’ve eaten and when you get symptoms. You can also speak to a doctor about allergy tests. 

7. Pancreatitis 

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. You might feel pain in your stomach, especially after eating — so this may come on after breakfast. 

Symptoms of pancreatitis include: 

• Sharp pain in your stomach or back 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting
• Fever 
• Having a swollen or tender belly  

The fix: Seek medical attention. Pain relief can help in the moment, but you may need antibiotics, fluids, or surgery. A doctor will also be able to determine the cause of your pancreatitis and treat that. This could be something like gallstones or alcohol misuse. 

8. Peptic Ulcer 

A peptic ulcer is an ulcer found on your stomach lining or in your small intestine. They’re caused by a Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection or from overusing anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) like aspirin. 

You may get peptic ulcer pain at any time of the day, but it might feel worse in the morning as you have an empty stomach. 

Symptoms of peptic ulcers include: 

• Stomach pain 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Weight loss 
• Indigestion  

The fix: An over-the-counter antacid can ease pain. See a doctor if you think you have a stomach ulcer as you may need antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid, or surgery. 

9. Period Pain 

Cramps and bloating can hit you at any time of your period, including the morning. And period pain may be made worse by the fact it’s hard to get enough sleep (due to a potent cocktail of pain, anxiety, and fluctuating hormones). 

Symptoms of period pain include: 

• Stomach cramps 
• Bloating
• Lower back pain
• Breast tenderness
• Migraines 

The fix: Try a hot water bottle or heating pad to ease the stomach ache and pain relievers like ibuprofen. Yoga, a brisk walk, and abdominal massage can also help.

Getting enough sleep can make the pain easier to deal with, but sleep can be hard to come by on your period. We’ve covered how to sleep on your period and more about insomnia before your period here.  

{{ cta-mini }}

10. Gastritis 

Gastritis is when your stomach lining becomes inflamed. This can be caused by an infection, overuse of certain pain relievers, or overuse of alcohol. 

Gastritis may become worse when you eat, so you may feel your stomach pain more after breakfast.  

Symptoms of gastritis include: 

• Stomach pain 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Feelings of fullness in your upper abdomen 

The fix: Speak to a doctor. You may need antibiotics, acid blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. 

11. Diverticulitis 

Diverticulitis happens when small sacs develop in the wall of your large intestine and become inflamed. 

Symptoms of diverticulitis include: 

• Stomach pain, usually in the lower left side of your abdomen  
• Constipation 
• Fever 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting  

The fix: Speak to a healthcare professional. You may need antibiotics. Mild cases can be treated with rest and dietary changes, but more severe cases may need surgery. 

12. Gallstones 

Gallstones are small stones, usually of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder. 

You may have no symptoms and not even need treatment. But, if a gallstone becomes trapped in a duct in your gallbladder, you may feel symptoms like: 

• Stomach pain in the center or upper right of your abdomen 
• Back or right shoulder pain 
• Nause
• Vomiting 

The fix: Speak to a doctor. They may prescribe medication to dissolve your gallstones or recommend surgery to remove your gallbladder. 

13. Food Poisoning 

You can get food poisoning from eating contaminated food. It usually goes away on its own within a few hours or days. 

Symptoms of food poisoning include: 

• Stomach pain
• Cramps  
• Diarrhea 
• Vomiting 

The fix: Unfortunately, you’ll have to ride out the illness. Keep hydrated, eat small meals of bland foods, and rest as much as possible. Get medical advice if your symptoms don’t improve after a few days, you’re pregnant, over 60, have an underlying serious condition, or it’s your child who’s sick. 

‍

How to Stop Stomach Pain in the Morning?

Apart from treating the root cause (see our fixes above), here’s what you can do to reduce stomach pain in the morning. 

1. Lower Your Sleep Debt 

The RISE app can tell you how much sleep debt you have.

Sleep debt is the name for the amount of sleep you owe your body. It’s compared to your sleep need, the genetically determined amount of sleep you need. 

When you don’t meet your sleep need at night, you start building up sleep debt, and this can lead to low energy levels, poor mood, and many mental and physical health conditions — including those that could be causing your stomach pain.  

Poor sleep has been linked to a number of causes of stomach pain including: 

• Upper and lower GI symptoms 
• Upper abdominal pain 
• Reflux 
• Diarrhea
• Constipation 
• IBS 
• Low cortisol

To make matters worse, when you don’t get enough sleep, you feel pain more acutely. So, even if a lack of sleep isn’t behind your stomach pain, it could very well make it much harder to deal with. 

Plus, sleep deprivation can throw your hunger hormones out of whack, making you more likely to overeat and reach for unhealthier foods — both of which can contribute to digestive issues and stomach pain. You learn more about the link between sleep and what and how much you eat here.

Luckily, you can pay down the sleep debt you’ve built up. 

To lower your sleep debt, you can: 

• Take naps: Check RISE for the best time to do this. 
• Go to bed a little earlier. 
• Sleep in a little later: Keep this to an hour or two to avoid messing up your circadian rhythm (more on that soon). 
• Improve your sleep hygiene: Sleep hygiene can cut down the time it takes you to fall asleep and reduce how often you wake up during the night, helping you get more sleep overall. More on what to do soon.

The RISE app can work out how much sleep debt you have and keep track of it as you pay it back. We measure your sleep debt over your past 14 nights and recommend you keep it below five hours to feel your best. 

RISE users on iOS 1.202 and above can click here to view their sleep debt.

{{ cta-mini }}

2. Get in Sync with Your Circadian Rhythm

The RISE app can predict your circadian rhythm each day.

Your circadian rhythm is your body’s biological clock. When you’re out of sync with it, you can not only cause low energy and sleep problems, but a whole host of health issues — including in your digestive system, causing stomach pain. 

But you don’t just have one circadian rhythm to think about. You have one master clock in your brain that controls your sleep-wake cycle. And you have clocks in almost every other tissue and organ — these are called peripheral clocks. 

When your master clock, peripheral clocks, and the outside world are at odds, you can easily suffer from digestive issues like constipation, acid reflux, IBS, IBD, and even digestive cancers. 

Here’s how to get in sync: 

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at roughly the same times each day, even on your days off.  
• Eat meals at roughly the same times and during the day: Eating can change the timing of your circadian rhythm, so keep meals at roughly the same time and avoid eating when your body’s not expecting it (i.e. at night). Finish up your final meal two to three hours before bed to stop digestive issues from keeping you up. What you eat matters, too. We’ve covered the best foods for sleep here. 
• Go to bed during your Melatonin Window: This is what we call the roughly one-hour window of time when your body’s rate of melatonin production is at its highest. Melatonin is your body’s sleep hormone, so going to bed during this window can help you fall and stay asleep.

The RISE app predicts your circadian rhythm each day based on factors like your inferred light exposure and last night’s sleep times. You can then see when your body naturally wants to wake up, wind down for bed, and go to sleep, and sync up your sleep and meal times to it.  

RISE can also remind you when to have your final meal of the day and show you when your Melatonin Window will be. 

RISE users on iOS 1.202 and above can click here to see their circadian rhythm on the Energy screen.

3. Improve Your Sleep Hygiene 

The RISE app can remind you when to do 20+ sleep hygiene habits.

Sleep hygiene can help you both meet your sleep need each night and stay in sync, by helping you feel sleepy at bedtime and fall asleep at the right times. 

Here’s what to do: 

• Get bright light first thing: Morning light resets your circadian rhythm for the day. Aim for at least 10 minutes of light as soon as possible after waking up, and get 15 to 20 minutes if it’s overcast or you’re getting light through a window.
• Avoid light close to bedtime: As light suppresses melatonin, you want to avoid it in the run-up to bedtime. Dim the lights and put on blue-light blocking glasses 90 minutes before bed.  
• Avoid caffeine, large meals, intense exercise, and alcohol too late in the day: All four can keep you up or wake you up during the night. These things may also be a trigger making stomach pain worse if you have indigestion, acid reflux,  IBS, or GERD. 
• Do a calming bedtime routine: Lower your stress (another trigger for issues causing stomach pain) and slow your brain and body down for sleep. Try reading, listening to music, or doing yoga. We cover how to relax before bed, even when you’re stressed, here.
• Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet: Set your thermostat to 65 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, use blackout curtains, and wear earplugs and an eye mask. 

To remember it all, the RISE app can guide you through 20+ sleep hygiene habits each day and tell you the ideal time to do each one based on your circadian rhythm to make them more effective.

RISE users on iOS 1.202 and above can click here to set up their 20+ in-app habit notifications.

‍

How to Fall Back to Sleep When Your Stomach Hurts?

Woken up before your alarm with stomach pain? Here’s how you can get back to sleep to get some more shut-eye: 

• Treat the pain: If pain has woken you up, try grabbing a hot water bottle or heat pad, doing some gentle stretches, or abdominal massage. 
• Keep the lights low: Light suppresses melatonin, so keep the lights as low as possible if you get up during the night. 
• Do a sleep reset: If you find yourself awake in bed for more than 20 minutes, get up and do a relaxing activity until you feel sleepy. Try reading, meditating, or journaling. This will stop your brain from associating your bed with wakefulness.  
• Keep calm: Easier said than done, but anxiety over pain or lost sleep will only make it harder to drift back off. As much as you can, try to remain calm. Avoid looking at the time and counting down the hours until you need to get up. RISE can guide you through science-backed relaxation techniques to help slow your mind. 
• Sleep on your side: If you’re a front sleeper, try switching your position to avoid putting weight on your stomach when it’s in pain. Left-side sleeping has been shown to help those with GERD. We’ve covered the best side to sleep on here and the best sleeping positions to lose weight here.
• Maintain excellent sleep hygiene: To stop anything like caffeine or alcohol from waking you up in the future, keep your sleep hygiene on point each day. 

RISE users on iOS 1.202 and above can click here to go right to their relaxation audio guide homepage and get started.

‍

What Causes Stomach Pain at Night?

Going to bed with stomach pain or waking up with it in the middle of the night? Many of the causes of stomach pain in the morning are the same as nighttime stomach pain.

These include: 

• Indigestion 
• IBS 
• IBD 
• Constipation 
• Acid reflux and GERD 
• Food allergies 
• Pancreatitis 
• Peptic ulcer
• Period pain
• Diverticulitis 
• Gallstones 
• Gastritis 

Your stomach pain may feel worse at night as you’re laying down, which makes it easier for stomach acid to rise into your esophagus, for example. Pain may be worse after a large meal, and you may have just eaten dinner close to bedtime. Pain may also feel worse because you have no distractions like work or family when you’re laying in bed. 

Speak to a doctor if stomach pain at night is a regular occurrence for you. 

Waking up with stomach pain can be a scary experience, or you may be worrying as battling pain has become a regular part of your morning routine. But when does stomach pain in the morning go from harmless to something serious? 

Most of the time, stomach pain is harmless and will go away on its own. But you should seek medical help for stomach pain if it’s a regular occurrence or if severe pain has woken you up from sleep. 

Soothe Morning Stomach Pain the Night Before 

There are many causes of morning stomach pain, ranging from food allergies and indigestion to acid reflux and IBS. Speak to a doctor if you regularly wake up with stomach pain or if it’s severe enough to wake you up in your sleep.  

For other times, focus on lowering your sleep debt and syncing up with your circadian rhythm to keep your digestive health in tip-top condition. Maintain excellent sleep hygiene to help make this happen. 

The RISE app can work out how much sleep debt you have, predict your circadian rhythm each day, and remind you when to do 20+ sleep hygiene habits. All this will help you get a good night’s sleep, improving your overall health and wellness and, hopefully, leading to pain-free mornings. 

Causes and when to see a doctor

Share on PinterestAcid reflux and GERD are possible causes of stomach pain in the morning.

The following are some of the more common causes of stomach pain in the morning:

1. Acid reflux and GERD

Acid reflux is a condition where acid and other stomach contents flow the wrong way, moving back into the esophagus. This may cause a burning sensation in the back of the mouth.

The most common acid reflux symptom is heartburn, which affects about 60 million people in the United States at least once a month, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Someone who has more than two episodes a week may have a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause complications if not treated.

People with acid reflux may feel pain in their stomachs, usually in the middle of the abdomen.

2. Gastritis

Gastritis, or an inflammation of the stomach lining, can develop all of a sudden or slowly over time. Pain in the upper abdomen is a common symptom of this condition, as are nausea and feeling full.

3. Gastroenteritis

Sometimes described as stomach flu, gastroenteritis is a viral or bacterial infection that targets the stomach and bowels. It causes stomach pain and diarrhea.

4. Stomach ulcers

Also known as peptic ulcers, stomach ulcers can cause dull, burning stomach pain in the morning or other times. Peptic ulcers are sores in the stomach lining and the lining of the small intestine closest to the stomach.

5. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. It is a common cause of severe and sudden stomach pain that starts around the navel and moves lower. The pain usually gets worse with time. Other symptoms may include nausea and fever. Appendicitis often requires surgery,

6. Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. This inflammation can cause cramping and stomach pain. Diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and fatigue are other symptoms of this chronic disease.

7. Indigestion

Dyspepsia is the medical term for indigestion. Lifestyle choices, such as the type of food a person eats, can cause it, but it can also be related to certain diseases. Stomach pain is the most common symptom associated with indigestion, although people may also suffer from nausea and bloating and get full quickly when they eat.

8. Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that can cause stomach pain, as well as changes in bowel habits. People with IBS may experience frequent constipation and diarrhea, or alternate between the two. They may also feel bloated and have incomplete bowel movements.

9. Abdominal adhesions

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 9 out of 10 people who have open-abdomen surgery develop adhesions, or scar tissue that causes organs to stick to each other and the abdominal wall.

Most people with adhesions do not develop complications, but in those that do, chronic stomach pain is common. Other symptoms include bloating, constipation, and nausea.

10. Food allergies

Stomach pain is a common symptom of food allergies, which affects 4 –6% of children and 4% of adults. Other symptoms include nausea, hives, and potentially fatal anaphylaxis, which interferes with breathing and causes blood pressure drops.

11. Constipation

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) define constipation as three or fewer bowel movements a week, which may be difficult or painful and feel incomplete. People with constipation may also develop stomach pain. Individuals can usually treat constipation on their own, but if it becomes chronic or other symptoms, such as bleeding or fever develop, see a doctor.

12. Diverticular disease

Diverticular disease, or diverticulosis, affects roughly half the people over age 60. It occurs as segments of the colon bulge outward in pouches. Usually, the pouches do not cause any problems, but if they get infected or inflamed, symptoms may develop. This is known as diverticulitis. People may experience stomach pain (typically on the left side), fever, nausea, and more severe complications.

13. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection that affects a person’s ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and cervix. According to the Office on Women’s Health, about 5% of women in the U.S. have PID, and it is most common in women aged 15-24.

The most common symptom is a pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms include fever, unusual vaginal discharge, and pain when having sex or urinating. It can cause severe complications if not treated promptly.

14. Celiac disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes people’s immune systems to attack their small intestines when they eat anything containing gluten. Wheat, rye, barley, and many other products contain gluten. Symptoms vary, but stomach pain and diarrhea are common.

15. Gallbladder disease

Problems with the gallbladder can cause stomach pain, often in the upper right portion of the abdomen. The pain can come and go for people who have biliary colic. If gallstones are present and blocking ducts in the gallbladder, other symptoms develop, too, such as nausea, vomiting, dark urine, jaundice, and dropping blood pressure.

16. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed, often because of gallstones. Common symptoms include sudden and severe pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and vomiting. Medical treatment is necessary.

Many different health issues can cause stomach pain in the morning. While some conditions may resolve on their own, others will require immediate treatment. When considering medical attention, things to consider include:

• Severity: If the pain is so bad that the individual cannot stand up, seek medical help immediately. Early symptoms of appendicitis can include pain in the abdomen.
• Duration: The longer an individual has stomach pain in the morning, the more important it is to seek medical treatment.
• Age: Severe stomach pain in younger people could indicate appendicitis. In older people, it may suggest gall bladder problems. Both conditions require prompt medical treatment.
• Speed of onset: Sudden stomach pain is a potential symptom of appendicitis, especially if the pain is getting worse.
• Other symptoms: People with appendicitis may develop a fever along with abdominal pain. Stomach pain alongside nausea can suggest a blockage or other serious condition. Bleeding from the rectum is a possible sign of conditions that require prompt medical treatment.

Many different conditions and diseases can cause stomach pain in the morning.

Most often, people can recover on their own, with self-care. However, this sort of pain is sometimes a symptom of severe health problems that require immediate medical attention.

For persistent, severe stomach pain in the morning alongside other symptoms, speak to a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Why the stomach hurts in the morning: 10 serious reasons

• Health

Any painful manifestations in the abdomen are extremely unpleasant and require attention. But if abdominal pain occurs mainly in the morning, you need to pay attention to this doctor. And that’s why.

July 8, 2022

Source:

iStockphoto

When we feel pain in the abdomen, this unpleasant sensation is not always associated with digestion. Sometimes it can be mild muscle spasms, damage to other organs located in the abdominal cavity, or even lung problems. It is often even difficult to describe the nature and strength of the pain, but one criterion will be important for the doctor – this is the time of occurrence of discomfort. If it is morning pain, it may give the doctor a clue as to the possible causes.

Doctor Peter together with gastroenterologist Vera Samsonova identified the most likely causes of morning abdominal pain. We will determine which of the manifestations are dangerous and require attention, and which can be eliminated on their own.

1. Acid reflux with heartburn

Often in the morning, abdominal pain occurs as a result of heartburn with the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus and even the pharynx. Often, such manifestations are also accompanied by a burning sensation in the throat, an unpleasant aftertaste, and problems with the teeth. Usually, the pain of reflux disease is felt in the area of ​​​​the pit of the stomach, and is aggravated after lying down.

2. Gastritis

In case of inflammation in the area of ​​the gastric mucosa, unpleasant sensations are possible in the morning, when the stomach cavity is completely emptied during the night and the acidic contents can irritate the walls. Often, such sensations are accompanied by nausea, a feeling of fullness in the stomach and lack of appetite in the morning.

3. Acute gastroenteritis or “intestinal flu”

Often in adults, viral infections of the digestive tract are accompanied by pain in the abdomen without a clear localization. Mostly they are concentrated in the upper abdomen above the navel, may be accompanied by diarrhea and bouts of vomiting. In the morning, the pain may increase due to the fact that at night the stomach is empty for a long time and the viruses irritate the mucous membranes more.

Read also

4. Erosions and stomach ulcers

Morning pain is typical for stomach ulcers and erosive processes. Defects on the mucous membranes most often occur due to the activity of special bacteria – Helicobacter pylori. These microbes are resistant to the action of acid, actively damage the mucosa, due to which surface defects are first formed – erosion, and if the process is not inhibited, even deeper ulcers.

5. Crohn’s disease

The inflammatory process in Crohn’s disease can provoke inflammation along any part of the digestive tube from the oropharynx to the rectum. Often there is pain throughout the abdomen, usually in the form of spasms or constant pressure. In addition, constipation may occur or they alternate with diarrhea, weight loss, constant fatigue, malaise, and weakness occur.

6. Constipation

If problems with stools become persistent, abdominal pain, cramps, nausea and malaise often follow. The pain intensifies in the morning, when a healthy person develops a natural reflex to defecate. Problems with the stool are aggravated due to nutritional problems, with a lack of fluid, and inactivity. Basically, this problem is typical for older people.

See also

7.

Diverticula in the intestines

In old age, sacs called diverticula can form on the walls of the intestines. They are usually detected on the walls of the colon in the form of single elements. Usually, diverticula do not manifest themselves in any way, but with irritation of the walls, inflammation, signs of diverticulitis may occur. Morning pain is formed in the abdomen, mainly on the left side, the temperature rises, nausea may occur. In rare cases, the help of surgeons with the removal of diverticula is necessary.

8. Pancreatitis

Inflammatory process in the pancreas develops due to problems with the gallbladder, excess alcohol, fatty foods, excess weight and other pathologies. An acute attack occurs suddenly, at night or in the early morning, and is manifested by a sudden, sharp pain in the upper abdomen, closer to the left ribs. In addition, against the background of pain, there is excruciating nausea with vomiting.

Read also

9. Problems of the gallbladder

Cholecystitis manifests itself in a similar way, it provokes pain in the abdomen, under the ribs, in the upper part, but mainly on the right. Often the pain occurs in the form of biliary colic, it is formed suddenly, against the background of a heavy dinner, excess fatty foods, alcohol. Pain may occur in the morning, on an empty stomach, or immediately after breakfast. The attack gives a sharp pain that shoots into the shoulder, radiating to the sides. In addition, vomiting, a decrease in pressure are possible.

10. Inflammation of the appendages

Pain in the morning in the lower abdomen may be a sign of inflammatory lesions in the genital area. Possible inflammation of the ovaries and fallopian tubes, uterus and bladder. In addition to pain, fever, discharge from the genital tract, and nausea also occur. Often problems are combined with urination and defecation disorders. Against the background of emptying the bladder or intestines, the pain intensifies.

Text author:Alena Paretskaya

16 Possible Causes – LIFEKOREA.ru

Morning Pain Has Many Possible Causes

From mild and temporary digestive problems to more serious gastrointestinal problems. Abdominal pain is often a vague term and difficult to diagnose. To diagnose abdominal pain in the morning, you need to be precise about the location and nature of the pain.

Read on for 16 common causes of morning stomach pain and their common symptoms and severity.

Morning Abdominal Pain: 16 Causes and Symptoms

Below are some of the most common causes of morning abdominal pain:

1. Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux is a condition in which acid and other contents the stomach flows incorrectly, returning to the esophagus. This can cause a burning sensation in the back of the mouth.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, the most common symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, which affects about 60 million people at least once a month. Someone with more than two episodes per week may have a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause complications if left untreated. People with acid reflux may feel pain in the abdomen, usually in the middle of the abdomen.

2. Gastritis

Gastritis, or inflammation of the lining of the stomach, can develop suddenly or slowly over time. Pain in the upper abdomen is a common symptom of this condition, along with nausea and a feeling of fullness.

3. Gastroenteritis

Sometimes called stomach flu. Gastroenteritis is a viral or bacterial infection that affects the stomach and intestines. This causes abdominal pain and diarrhea.

4. Gastric ulcers

Also known as peptic ulcers, stomach ulcers can cause a dull, burning pain in the stomach in the morning or at other times. Peptic ulcers are ulcers on the lining of the stomach and the lining of the small intestine that are closest to the stomach.

5. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. This is a common cause of severe and sudden pain in the abdomen that starts around the navel and goes down. The pain usually gets worse over time. Other symptoms may include nausea and fever. Appendicitis often requires surgery.

6. Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. This inflammation can cause cramping and pain in the abdomen. Diarrhea, constipation, weight loss and fatigue are other symptoms of this chronic disease.

7. Dyspepsia

Dyspepsia is the medical term for indigestion. Lifestyle choices, such as the type of food a person eats, can trigger it, but it can also be associated with certain medical conditions. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom associated with indigestion, although people may also suffer from nausea and bloating that swells quickly when eating.

8. Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that can cause abdominal pain as well as changes in bowel habits. People with IBS may experience frequent constipation and diarrhea, which may alternate. They may also feel bloated and have sluggish bowels.

9. Abdominal adhesions

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 9 out of 10 people who have open abdominal surgery develop adhesions, or scar tissue, in which organs stick to each other and to the abdominal wall. Most people with adhesions do not develop complications, but chronic abdominal pain is common in those who do. Other symptoms include bloating, constipation, and nausea.

10. Food allergy

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of food allergy, affecting 4-6% of children and 4% of adults. Other symptoms include nausea, hives, and potentially fatal anaphylaxis, which interferes with breathing and causes blood pressure to drop.

11. Constipation

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) defines constipation as having three or fewer bowel movements per week, which can be difficult or painful. People with constipation may also develop abdominal pain. People can usually treat constipation on their own, but if it becomes chronic or other symptoms develop, such as bleeding or fever, see a doctor.

12. Diverticular disease

Diverticular disease, or diverticulosis, affects about half of people over 60 years of age. It manifests itself as a bulge of the colon in sacs. Usually the pouches do not cause any problems, but if they become infected or inflamed, symptoms may develop. This is known as diverticulitis. People may experience abdominal pain (usually on the left side), fever, nausea, and more serious complications.

13. Inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection that affects the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and cervix.

According to the Women’s Health Administration, about 5% of women have PID, and it is most common among women aged 15-24. The most common symptom is pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms include fever, unusual vaginal discharge, and pain with sex or urination. It can cause serious complications if not treated quickly.

14. Celiac disease

Celiac disease is also known as gluten intolerance. This food intolerance causes a person’s immune system to attack their small intestines when they eat anything that contains gluten. Wheat, rye, barley and many other foods contain gluten. Symptoms vary, but abdominal pain and diarrhea are the most common.

15. Gallbladder disease

Gallbladder problems can cause abdominal pain, often in the upper right side of the abdomen. Pain can come and go for people with biliary colic. If gallstones are present and block the ducts in the gallbladder, other symptoms develop, such as nausea, vomiting, dark urine, jaundice, and low blood pressure.

16. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, often due to gallstones. Common symptoms include sudden and severe pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and vomiting.

Treatment is needed. When to See a Doctor

Many different health problems can cause stomach pain in the morning. While some conditions may resolve on their own, others will require immediate treatment. Consideration should be given to the following factors when considering medical care:

Severity: If the pain is so severe that the person cannot stand up, seek immediate medical attention. Early symptoms of appendicitis may include abdominal pain.

Duration: The longer a person has stomach pain in the morning, the sooner they should seek medical help.

Age: severe abdominal pain in young people may indicate appendicitis. In older people, it may indicate problems with the gallbladder. Both conditions require immediate medical treatment.

Speed ​​of onset: Sudden abdominal pain is a potential symptom of appendicitis, especially if the pain gets worse.

Other symptoms: People with appendicitis may develop fever along with abdominal pain.