What are the common causes of bloated stomach pain and nausea. How can you differentiate between harmless bloating and more serious conditions. When should you seek medical attention for persistent bloating and nausea.

Understanding Bloated Stomach: Causes and Symptoms

A bloated stomach occurs when the abdomen feels full, tight, and uncomfortable due to excess gas or fluid buildup. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal distension
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Nausea
• Poor appetite
• Excessive flatulence
• Belching

While occasional bloating is normal, persistent or severe bloating accompanied by other symptoms may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.

What causes a bloated stomach?

There are several potential causes of stomach bloating:

1. Swallowing excess air while eating or drinking
2. Consuming gas-producing foods
3. Constipation
4. Food intolerances
5. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
6. Gastrointestinal infections
7. Hormonal changes
8. Certain medications

Distinguishing Between Bloating and Fullness

While bloating and fullness may seem similar, there are key differences:

Bloating involves excessive gas or fluid in the digestive tract, causing abdominal distension and discomfort. Fullness, on the other hand, is the sensation of having eaten too much, which typically subsides as digestion progresses.

Can bloating be mistaken for fullness? Yes, the two sensations can be confused. Bloating often persists longer and may be accompanied by additional symptoms like pain or nausea, whereas fullness usually resolves on its own as food is digested.

When Bloating Becomes a Concern: Red Flags to Watch For

While occasional bloating is usually harmless, certain signs may indicate a more serious underlying condition:

• Persistent bloating lasting more than two weeks
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pale skin
• Loss of appetite
• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in stool
• Fever

These symptoms, especially when combined with persistent bloating, could be warning signs of conditions such as gastrointestinal cancers, liver disease, or other serious health issues. If you experience any of these red flags, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

The Link Between Bloating, Nausea, and Fatigue

Bloating often occurs alongside other symptoms like nausea and fatigue. This combination can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may indicate an underlying health issue.

Why do bloating, nausea, and fatigue often occur together?

These symptoms frequently co-occur due to shared underlying causes, such as:

• Digestive disorders (e.g., IBS, celiac disease)
• Food intolerances or allergies
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic stress
• Certain medications
• Nutrient deficiencies

When experiencing this symptom triad, it’s essential to consider potential underlying causes and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Lifestyle Factors Contributing to Bloating

Certain lifestyle habits can exacerbate or contribute to stomach bloating:

• Sedentary behavior: Sitting for long periods without exercise can slow digestion and contribute to bloating.
• Poor eating habits: Eating too quickly, consuming large portions, or not chewing food thoroughly can lead to excess gas production and bloating.
• Smoking: This habit can increase air swallowing and affect digestive function.
• Stress: High stress levels can impact gut motility and contribute to bloating and other digestive symptoms.

Making simple lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity, practicing mindful eating, and managing stress, can often help alleviate bloating symptoms.

Medical Conditions Associated with Chronic Bloating

Persistent bloating may be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions, including:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Celiac disease
• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
• Gastroparesis
• Pancreatic insufficiency
• Ovarian cancer (in women)

Is chronic bloating always a sign of a serious condition? Not necessarily. While chronic bloating can be associated with serious health issues, it’s often related to more benign causes like dietary factors or functional gastrointestinal disorders. However, persistent bloating should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Diagnostic Approaches for Persistent Bloating

When bloating persists or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools to identify the underlying cause:

1. Medical history and physical examination
2. Food diary analysis
3. Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies
4. Stool tests to detect parasites or abnormal bacteria
5. Breath tests for lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
6. Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) to visualize abdominal structures
7. Endoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the digestive tract directly

The specific diagnostic approach will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and initial examination findings.

Treatment Strategies for Bloating and Associated Symptoms

Treatment for bloating and related symptoms like nausea and fatigue depends on the underlying cause. Some common approaches include:

Dietary Modifications

• Identifying and avoiding trigger foods
• Following a low-FODMAP diet
• Increasing fiber intake gradually
• Staying hydrated

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular exercise
• Stress management techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
• Improving sleep habits

Medications

• Over-the-counter antacids or gas-relief medications
• Prescription medications for specific conditions (e.g., proton pump inhibitors for GERD)
• Probiotics to support gut health

Alternative Therapies

• Acupuncture
• Herbal remedies (e.g., peppermint oil, ginger)
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for stress-related symptoms

How effective are these treatments for bloating? The effectiveness of treatments varies depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. Many people find relief through a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and targeted therapies. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Prevention Strategies for Reducing Bloating

While not all cases of bloating can be prevented, several strategies can help reduce its frequency and severity:

1. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overloading the digestive system.
2. Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to reduce air swallowing.
3. Avoid carbonated beverages and use of straws, which can introduce excess air into the digestive tract.
4. Limit intake of gas-producing foods like beans, lentils, and certain vegetables.
5. Stay physically active to promote healthy digestion and bowel function.
6. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices.
7. Stay well-hydrated to support optimal digestive function.
8. Consider keeping a food diary to identify personal trigger foods.

Can bloating be completely prevented? While it may not be possible to prevent all instances of bloating, especially those related to underlying medical conditions, implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of bloating episodes for many individuals.

The Impact of Medications on Bloating

Certain medications can contribute to or exacerbate bloating symptoms. These include:

• Antidepressants
• Sedatives
• Opioid pain medications
• Iron supplements
• Some blood pressure medications
• Certain diabetes medications

If you suspect that a medication may be causing or worsening your bloating symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

How do medications contribute to bloating?

Medications can affect bloating through various mechanisms:

1. Slowing gastrointestinal motility
2. Altering gut bacteria balance
3. Causing fluid retention
4. Affecting digestive enzyme production

Your healthcare provider can help determine if your medications are contributing to bloating and suggest alternatives or additional treatments to manage symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Bloating

While occasional bloating is common and often resolves on its own, certain situations warrant medical attention:

• Persistent bloating lasting more than two weeks
• Severe abdominal pain
• Bloating accompanied by unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits (e.g., persistent diarrhea or constipation)
• Blood in stool
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting that doesn’t improve
• Bloating that significantly impacts daily life

Should you see a doctor for occasional bloating? If bloating is infrequent and mild, it may not require medical attention. However, if you’re concerned about your symptoms or they’re impacting your quality of life, it’s always appropriate to consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

The Role of Gut Health in Managing Bloating

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome plays a crucial role in digestive health and can help prevent or alleviate bloating symptoms. Strategies to support gut health include:

1. Consuming a diverse range of plant-based foods
2. Including fermented foods in your diet (e.g., yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)
3. Taking probiotic supplements when recommended by a healthcare provider
4. Limiting processed foods and artificial sweeteners
5. Managing stress, which can impact gut health
6. Getting adequate sleep
7. Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use

How long does it take to improve gut health? Improvements in gut health can begin within days of making dietary and lifestyle changes, but significant changes may take several weeks to months. Consistency is key when working to improve gut health and reduce bloating symptoms.

Bloating in Special Populations

Certain groups may be more prone to bloating or experience it differently:

Women

Women often experience bloating related to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Additionally, conditions like endometriosis and ovarian cysts can cause bloating.

Older Adults

Age-related changes in digestive function and increased medication use can contribute to more frequent bloating in older adults.

Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions

People with conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or liver disease may experience bloating as a symptom or side effect of their condition or treatments.

Athletes

High-intensity exercise and certain dietary practices among athletes can sometimes lead to increased bloating.

Do these groups require different approaches to managing bloating? Yes, management strategies may need to be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of these populations. For example, women might focus on hormonal balance, while older adults may need to address medication side effects or age-related digestive changes.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Bloating

Persistent bloating can have significant psychological effects, including:

• Reduced self-esteem and body image issues
• Social anxiety and isolation
• Depression and mood changes
• Stress and frustration
• Impact on relationships and intimacy

It’s important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic bloating. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, support groups, and mindfulness practices can be helpful in managing the emotional impact of persistent digestive symptoms.

How can individuals cope with the psychological effects of chronic bloating?

1. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist
2. Practice self-compassion and positive self-talk
3. Engage in stress-reducing activities
4. Focus on overall health and well-being rather than just symptoms
5. Consider joining a support group for individuals with similar experiences

Addressing the psychological impact of bloating is an essential part of comprehensive symptom management and can significantly improve quality of life.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Bloating Management

The field of gastroenterology is continually evolving, with new research shedding light on the causes and potential treatments for bloating. Some areas of current interest include:

• The role of the gut-brain axis in bloating and other digestive symptoms
• Personalized nutrition approaches based on individual gut microbiome profiles
• Novel probiotic and prebiotic therapies
• Targeted interventions for specific causes of bloating (e.g., SIBO-specific treatments)
• Non-invasive diagnostic tools for identifying underlying causes of bloating

What promising treatments for bloating are on the horizon? While research is ongoing, some promising areas include:

1. Fecal microbiota transplantation for severe cases of dysbiosis
2. Gut-directed hypnotherapy for functional gastrointestinal disorders
3. Targeted enzyme therapies for specific digestive deficiencies
4. Advanced probiotics designed to address specific gut imbalances

As research progresses, we can expect more personalized and effective approaches to managing bloating and related digestive symptoms.

Signs that shouldn’t be ignored

1. Home
2. Health Articles
3. Bloated Stomach: Signs that shouldn’t be ignored

Back to Home

Gastrointestinal disease

HIGHLIGHTS:

• A bloated stomach that lasts longer than 2 weeks after taking medications, weight loss, pale skin, loss of appetite and yellowing of the skin can be warning signs of cancer.
• Sitting too long without exercise can contribute to stomach bloating.

Although a bloated stomach is a common symptom that is not harmless, it can actually be a sign of something serious. A bloated stomach that lasts longer than 2 weeks after taking medications, weight loss, pale skin, loss of appetite and yellowing of the skin can be warning signs of cancer. Bloating should not be ignored.

A bloated stomach occurs when the stomach or intestine fills with air/gas, causing physical discomfort, stomach pain, nausea or poor appetite. Air or gas in the stomach is typically caused by swallowing air while eating certain types of foods, smoking and chewing gum. Some medications can cause bloating as a side effect, such as sleeping pills, sedatives and antidepressants which influence the nervous system in a way that can lessen bowel contractions, resulting in bloating.

Some people have a bloated stomach for a long period of time due to gastrointestinal tract disease, including gastritis, gastric ulcer, gastrointestinal or colorectal cancer, parasitic infection, irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal dysfunction, and other system disorders such as thyroid and diabetes, which can contribute to stomach bloating that requires detailed examinations.

Are bloated stomachs and stomach fullness the same or different?

A bloated stomach and stomach fullness are symptoms of having excessive gas in the stomach, causing discomfort, a feeling of fullness, a swollen stomach after a meal, nausea, excessive flatulence, and feeling better after belching or passing wind.

Treatment

If you have the above symptoms without warning signs, you can use carminatives or medications that help with digestion, and change dietary habits. However, if the symptoms last longer than 2 weeks after taking medications, please consult a doctor for detection of the cause of the symptoms.

Basic Self-Management

• Avoid high-fat foods that are difficult to digest.
• Do not eat a big meal.
• Chew food thoroughly.
• Sitting too long without exercise can contribute to stomach bloating. Exercise regularly.

Do not leave a “bloated stomach” untreated. Although bloating is a common symptom that is not harmless, it can actually be a sign of something serious or lead to other conditions.

Free first video call consultation with doctor. LEARN MORE HERE

Rating

Share article

Benjarat Promjunyakul, M.D.

Gastroenterology

View profile

Concerned about your health?

Send an inquiry or schedule an appointment

Sign up to save your patient information for your next booking

Sign up

Already have an account?
Log in

Causes and what to do

If a person is bloated, nauseous, and tired, changing their eating habits may help. However, if these symptoms persist, it may be a sign of an underlying health condition.

People with a bloated stomach, nausea, and tiredness may find their stomach feels enlarged, tight, and uncomfortably full.

They may have a stomach ache or pass more gas than usual. In some cases, salty foods and carbohydrates can make someone feel sleepy or bloated.

In this article, we look at the causes of bloating, nausea, and tiredness, and what people can do to relieve these symptoms.

Share on PinterestEating habits, constipation, stress, and other medical conditions may lead to bloating, nausea, and tiredness.

There are many reasons why a person might have a bloated stomach and be feeling sick and tired. Read on for some potential causes.

Eating habits

There are several ways a person’s eating habits and diet can contribute to feeling bloated, nauseous, or tired.

These include:

• eating too quickly
• eating large portions
• drinking carbonated drinks
• eating foods high in salt
• eating a lot of carbohydrates

Eating moderate portions of food slowly and mindfully may aid digestion and ease symptoms.

Constipation

Constipation occurs when someone has less frequent bowel movements than usual. The bowel movements they do have may feel difficult, uncomfortable, or painful.

Other symptoms of constipation include:

• bloating
• feeling sluggish
• stomach pain

According to John Hopkins Medicine, constipation is the most common digestive condition in the United States.

Constipation has a range of causes, including:

• sudden changes in diet or lifestyle
• pregnancy
• dehydration
• not eating enough fiber
• medication that has constipation as a side effect

Treatment for constipation depends on the cause but often involves dietary and lifestyle changes. If these do not work, a doctor may prescribe a laxative.

Stress

Stress and anxiety can affect the nerves of the digestive system, slowing down the movements of the intestines. This may cause people to feel bloated, nauseous, and tired.

Stress can also contribute to constipation, as well as other gastrointestinal conditions.

The American Institute of Stress list a wide range of other symptoms that stress can cause, including:

• nervous habits, such as fidgeting
• muscle tension or pain
• cold or sweaty hands and feet
• insomnia or nightmares
• headaches or jaw clenching
• changes in appetite
• frequent illness, such as colds or flu

Stress can be difficult to manage. However, there are many ways someone can relieve stress, such as:

• deep breathing exercises
• yoga or meditation
• journaling
• prayer
• massage or self-massage

It is a good idea for people to experiment with different stress management techniques to find what helps.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when too many bacteria grow in the small intestine.

SIBO can cause:

• bloating and gas
• diarrhea or constipation
• stomach pain
• nausea
• fatigue

People with SIBO often have low motility, meaning the small intestine does not push food through the digestive tract as it should.

Diverticulitis, abdominal surgery, and adhesions can also make SIBO more likely.

There are several types of SIBO, and the type someone has will determine their treatment. Doctors may prescribe an antibiotic or combination of antibiotics.

People with SIBO may feel relief from symptoms by following a low FODMAP diet.

FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are compounds that bacteria ferment, sometimes causing SIBO symptoms.

Learn more about the low FODMAP diet.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) describes a group of symptoms that affect the gastrointestinal tract, including:

• abdominal pain and cramping
• diarrhea or constipation
• bloating
• white mucus in stools

Because of the range of causes, treatment for IBS varies. The low FODMAP diet, reducing stress, and medications that alleviate the symptoms can help someone manage the condition.

A variety of factors can cause IBS. Stress, early life trauma, and bacterial infections may play a role. Some people with IBS also have SIBO, food intolerances, or mental health conditions.

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis means stomach paralysis and occurs when the stomach cannot contract. This causes food to sit in the stomach, disrupting digestion.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, gastoparesis can cause the following symptoms:

• bloating
• nausea
• feeling full quickly
• heartburn
• vomiting
• abdominal pain

Abdominal pain of gastroparesis occurs under the ribs, especially in the center of the upper abdomen.

As a result of these symptoms, a person may lose weight or not get enough nutrients, which can result in tiredness.

People often manage gastroparesis by changing their diet. Foods high in fat or fiber take longer to digest. Switching to softer foods, such as nutritional drinks, soups, and stews, can help.

Dumping syndrome

Dumping syndrome happens when food empties from the stomach too quickly.

The International Foundation Gastrointestinal Disorders state that dumping syndrome can occur after people have had surgery to remove part of the stomach. It may also occur in people with other digestive conditions.

Along with bloating, nausea, and fatigue, the symptoms of dumping syndrome include:

• abdominal cramping
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• dizziness
• cold sweats

Symptoms may appear during or straight after eating, or 1–3 hours after eating. Dietary changes can often help people to relieve symptoms.

Changes can include:

• eating smaller meals more frequently
• increasing complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains
• increasing foods high in soluble fiber, such as apples, carrots, and oats
• increasing protein

It can help to talk to a dietician so that a person with dumping syndrome can maintain their weight.

Ovarian cancer

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), persistent bloating for 2 weeks or more can be a sign of ovarian cancer in females.

People may also experience:

• unusual vaginal bleeding
• pelvic pain or pressure
• feeling full quickly while eating
• difficulty eating
• constipation or more frequent bowel movements
• more frequent urination

If people have any of these symptoms, they should see their doctor right away. A doctor can request tests to determine if these symptoms are due to cancer or another condition.

In mild or temporary cases of bloating, nausea, and tiredness, a person may find their symptoms resolve with rest, bowel movements, or passing gas.

Home remedies and lifestyle changes can also help relieve symptoms. These include:

• eating smaller meals more regularly
• eating slowly and mindfully, chewing thoroughly
• trying to reduce stress
• drinking enough water throughout the day
• reducing processed foods, which can be high in fat and salt
• stopping smoking or drinking alcohol that can cause heartburn

Depending on the underlying cause, people may find increasing or decreasing fiber intake helps ease symptoms. People can talk to a healthcare professional to work out a helpful fiber intake.

If someone has persistent symptoms of SIBO or IBS after meals, they can try the low FODMAP diet to see if it eases their symptoms.

People should see their doctor if they have experienced persistent bloating for 2 weeks or more. People should also see their doctor if they have:

• unexplained weight loss
• persistent or severe abdominal pain
• blood in their urine or stool
• changes in the color of frequency of bowel movements
• loss of appetite or feeling full quickly

Bloating, nausea, and tiredness can occur due to a wide range of causes. Temporary explanations can include eating rich or salty meals, eating too much, or short-term stress. Longer-term causes include conditions such as IBS, SIBO, and gastroparesis.

People may feel an improvement in symptoms by changing their diet, eating habits, and by reducing stress if possible. However, for persistent or severe symptoms, a person can seek help from a doctor.

Abdominal pain – find out the cause!

There can be many causes of abdominal pain and some of them can be seriously life threatening.

Therefore, do not get carried away with self-treatment – traditional medicine or over-the-counter medicines. It is necessary to consult a doctor, since only a specialist is able to determine the exact diagnosis.
From the point of view of a gastroenterologist, there are quite a few places where the source of pain can be – the stomach, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, etc. However, abdominal pain can also be caused by muscle tissue or nerve endings, which are directly related to problem areas of the spine. Pain can also be caused by pneumonia, a heart attack, or other health problems.

Abdominal pain should be taken very seriously, as it may indicate a malfunction in the functioning of internal organs. Gastroenterologist Medicīnas centrs ARS , certified endoscopist Dr. Sabri ABDELMASI.

• Pain in the abdomen and in the left hypochondrium can cause pancreatitis – inflammation of the pancreas (quite often after parties and feasts).
• Helicobacter pylori infection, gastritis or ulcer.
• Abdominal bloating because gases build up pressure and cramps occur.
• Pain may indicate a serious problem, such as a blockage in the colon. This can be caused by some kind of neoplasm or psychological problems that inhibit bowel function.
• Very severe, attacks, pain in the right hypochondrium with severe chills and nausea to vomiting is most often associated with problems in the gallbladder.
• One of the most common causes of abdominal pain is the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. For example, a person often has a headache and therefore regularly uses painkillers. Strong painkillers are also used for injuries. For the stomach, there is no difference how medicines are taken (injected or in the form of tablets) – the irritation is the same. If special medicines that protect the digestive tract are not used to protect the mucous surface of the stomach, then it becomes inflamed and hurts. Soon, extensive inflammation occurs, damage develops on the mucous surface, there may be bleeding, an ulcer occurs. Regular use of aspirin has a very negative effect on the stomach and small intestine.

What to do?

Acute pain. If the pain in the abdomen is severe, attacks and does not go away, there is sweating, a feeling of heaviness in the heart, weakness, fever, vomiting with blood, diarrhea (several times a day) with / without blood, bleeding – then urgently required call for emergency medical attention. There is a possibility that the cause of the pain may be internal bleeding, a deep ulcer, a severe infection or poisoning, which seriously threatens human life.

Chronic pain. If the pain in the abdomen is chronic and not particularly disturbing, a consultation with a doctor is required and an in-depth examination is necessary so that there are no life-threatening risks in the development of the disease. Especially if recently there has been, for example, an incomprehensible weight loss or a variable nature of defecation (diarrhea is replaced by constipation) – this can be a serious signal that you need to check and make sure that there is no malignant neoplasm. Unfortunately, people often come to the doctor late. If something hurts in the stomach from time to time, it is better to check once than to suffer in ignorance – what is there?

Methods of examination:

• Laboratory tests of blood and urine, which reveal the presence of inflammation, infection or other pathological changes, if any.
• If gallbladder problems are suspected, ultrasonography (ultrasound) and computed tomography (CT) are needed.
• For pain and burning sensation in the stomach, pain in the upper abdomen, vomiting with blood, if an ulcer or neoplasm is suspected, gastroscopy is performed and the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (initial site) are examined. AT Medical centrs ARS this examination is carried out using a new generation of video endoscopic equipment Olympus EVIS EXERA III , which allows not only to examine the esophagus, stomach and duodenal mucosa in detail, but also to simultaneously carry out diagnostics and medical manipulations, for example, remove polyps, treat a bleeding ulcer, conduct a biopsy – take samples of mucous tissues to assess the risk of tumors, and also clarify the presence of a heliobacterial infection.
• If abdominal pain is localized in the lower part, there is a painful bowel movement with an admixture of blood, painful cramps that arose due to bloating, constipation – then a colonoscopy is necessary, which will allow a qualified assessment of the mucous membrane of the colon and rectum. This is also carried out using the latest generation video endoscopy equipment Olympus EVIS EXERA III . The procedure is painless and at the same time it is possible to carry out various diagnostic and therapeutic manipulations, for example, take a sample of mucous tissue for analysis, perform a polypectomy – remove polyps, stop bleeding, etc. To get rid of any discomfort, light, short-term anesthesia is used.

12 Possible Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a common complaint and can be caused or exacerbated by many factors. We present to your attention the 12 most common reasons for this.

1. Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)

In this case, abdominal pain is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting and loose stools. It is most commonly caused by bacteria or viruses, and symptoms usually resolve within a few days.

2. Gassing

Gas occurs when bacteria in the small intestine digest certain foods. Increased gas pressure in the intestines can cause acute pain. Gas can also cause flatulence and belching.

3. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

For unknown reasons, individuals with IBS are unable to digest certain types of foods. Abdominal pain is a major symptom for many IBS patients and often resolves after a bowel movement. Other common symptoms include gas, nausea, cramps, and bloating.

4. Acid reflux

Acid reflux is a condition in which acidic stomach contents enter the esophagus. This process is almost always accompanied by burning and pain. Acid reflux also causes symptoms such as bloating or cramps.

5. Gastritis

When the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or destroyed, pain occurs. Nausea, vomiting, gas, and bloating are other common symptoms of gastritis.

6. Constipation

When bowel problems occur, pressure on the large intestine increases, which may be accompanied by pain.

7. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

GERD is a chronic relapsing disease caused by spontaneous, regularly repeated reflux of gastric and/or duodenal contents into the esophagus, leading to damage to the lower esophagus. GERD can cause stomach pain as well as heartburn and nausea.

8. Ulcers

Ulcers (peptic or gastric) usually cause severe and prolonged abdominal pain. The most common causes of ulcers are the bacteria H. pylori and excessive and/or long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

9. Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to pain, gas, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Given its chronic nature, this condition can lead to malnutrition, causing weight loss and emaciation.

10. Celiac disease

Allergy to gluten, a protein found in grain products, causes inflammation in the small intestine. This, in turn, is accompanied by pain.

11. Menstrual cramps or endometriosis

Menstruation may be accompanied by abdominal pain. Bloating, gas, cramps, and constipation can also occur during menstruation, causing discomfort. Patients with endometriosis may experience severe or chronic pain due to inflammation.

12. Urinary tract and bladder infections

Urinary tract infections are most commonly caused by bacteria. Symptoms include pain, pressure in the lower abdomen, and bloating. Most infections cause painful urination.

Unusual and more serious causes

In some cases, abdominal pain is a symptom of a serious illness that, if left untreated, can be fatal.