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Stomach ache cough. 11 Causes of Stomach Pain When Coughing: Understanding Abdominal Discomfort

Why does your stomach hurt when you cough. What underlying conditions can cause abdominal pain during coughing. How to identify and address stomach ache associated with coughing. When should you seek medical attention for cough-related stomach pain.

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The Connection Between Coughing and Stomach Pain

Coughing is a natural bodily function designed to clear irritants from the throat. While occasional discomfort in the chest and abdomen during forceful coughs is normal, persistent stomach pain when coughing may indicate an underlying issue. This discomfort can range from mild aches to sharp, severe pain and might also occur during other activities like laughing, sneezing, or exercising.

It’s crucial to understand that self-diagnosis is not recommended due to the various potential causes of stomach pain. If you experience ongoing or sudden stomach pain, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult a medical professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Appendicitis: A Common Cause of Abdominal Pain

Appendicitis, the inflammation of the appendix, is a frequent culprit behind abdominal pain that worsens with coughing. This condition can present with various symptoms, including:

  • Severe abdominal pain, particularly when coughing or moving
  • Abdominal swelling or bloating
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite

While the exact cause of appendicitis isn’t always clear, prompt identification and treatment are crucial to prevent appendix rupture. Appendicitis is typically considered a medical emergency, often requiring surgical removal of the appendix. In some milder cases, antibiotic treatment may be sufficient.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Suspected Appendicitis

If you experience severe abdominal pain, especially when coughing or moving, along with fever and other digestive symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical care. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Cystitis: Urinary Tract Infections and Abdominal Discomfort

Cystitis, a common type of urinary tract infection, can cause lower abdominal pain that may be exacerbated by coughing. Other symptoms of cystitis include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Cloudy or dark urine with a foul odor
  • Blood in the urine
  • General feelings of unwellness

Cystitis is more prevalent in women, and mild cases often resolve within three days. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, medical attention is necessary. Antibiotics are typically prescribed for treatment.

Interstitial Cystitis: A Chronic Condition

Recurring and severe cases of cystitis may indicate interstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic condition characterized by severe pain around the stomach, pelvis, or bladder that worsens with activity. Management of IC often involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes, with surgery being a less common option.

Diverticular Disease: When Colon Health Affects Abdominal Comfort

Diverticular disease occurs when small sacs push out against weak spots in the colon wall. While mild cases may be asymptomatic, progression of the disease can lead to various symptoms, including:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fever or chills
  • Bowel changes (constipation or diarrhea)
  • Blood in the stool (rare but serious)

If you experience these symptoms, particularly abdominal pain that worsens with coughing, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Treatment for diverticular disease may include a combination of medications, a high-fiber diet, and probiotics. While rare, blood in the stool is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

Endometriosis: A Hidden Cause of Abdominal Pain in Women

Endometriosis affects at least 11 percent of women aged 15 to 44 in the United States. This condition occurs when tissue similar to uterine lining grows outside the uterus, resulting in significant pain in the lower back, pelvis, and lower abdominal areas. The pain associated with endometriosis can be exacerbated by various activities, including coughing.

Recognizing Endometriosis Symptoms

Women with endometriosis may experience intense pain during:

  • Menstruation
  • Sexual intercourse
  • Urination
  • Bowel movements

The pain may be particularly noticeable during coughing or other physical activities that engage the abdominal muscles. If you suspect endometriosis, it’s crucial to consult a gynecologist for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Gallstones: A Painful Digestive Condition

Gallstones can cause severe abdominal pain that may be exacerbated by coughing. Symptoms of gallstones include:

  • Intense abdominal pain lasting at least 30 minutes
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Pain in the upper back or right shoulder
  • Fever or chills
  • Jaundice
  • Gas or indigestion, especially after consuming fatty foods
  • Nausea or vomiting

The pain associated with gallstones can be particularly severe during coughing fits, as the abdominal muscles contract and put pressure on the gallbladder. If you experience these symptoms, especially recurrent abdominal pain after eating, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.

Treating Gallstones

Treatment for gallstones depends on their size and severity. Options may include:

  1. Watchful waiting for small, asymptomatic stones
  2. Medications to dissolve small stones
  3. Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) for larger or problematic stones

Hernias: When Internal Organs Push Through Muscle Walls

Hernias occur when internal organs or tissues push through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This condition can cause abdominal pain that intensifies during coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects. Common symptoms of hernias include:

  • Visible bulging in the belly or groin area
  • Pain that worsens with physical activity or coughing
  • Discomfort when passing bowel movements

If you notice a bulge in your abdomen or groin that becomes more prominent or painful when you cough, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. Hernias often require surgical repair to prevent complications such as strangulation of the protruding tissue.

Kidney Stones: A Source of Intense Abdominal and Back Pain

Kidney stones can cause severe pain that may be exacerbated by coughing or other sudden movements. Symptoms of kidney stones include:

  • Intense abdominal or back pain
  • Pain on one or both sides of the back
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • Blood in the urine
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea or vomiting

The pain associated with kidney stones can be excruciating and may worsen with coughing due to the increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. If you suspect kidney stones, especially if you experience severe pain or difficulty urinating, seek medical attention promptly.

Managing Kidney Stones

Treatment for kidney stones depends on their size and location. Options may include:

  1. Drinking plenty of water to help pass small stones
  2. Pain medications to manage discomfort
  3. Medical procedures such as lithotripsy to break up larger stones
  4. Surgical removal for very large or complicated stones

Ovarian Cysts: A Common Gynecological Concern

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or within the ovaries. While many cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some can cause abdominal pain that may worsen with coughing or physical activity. Symptoms of problematic ovarian cysts include:

  • Lower abdominal pain (ranging from mild to severe)
  • Sharp pain in the side of the stomach
  • Abdominal bloating or swelling

If you experience persistent or severe abdominal pain, especially if it’s accompanied by bloating or changes in your menstrual cycle, it’s important to consult a gynecologist. Large or complex cysts may require monitoring or surgical intervention.

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the Pancreas

Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can cause severe abdominal pain that may intensify with coughing. Symptoms of pancreatitis include:

  • Abdominal pain that worsens over time
  • Pain that spreads from the abdomen to the lower back
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Loose or foul-smelling stools
  • Unintentional weight loss

The pain associated with pancreatitis can be constant and may worsen after eating or when lying down. Coughing can exacerbate the discomfort by putting pressure on the inflamed pancreas. If you experience persistent abdominal pain, especially if it’s accompanied by other digestive symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

Treating Pancreatitis

Treatment for pancreatitis typically involves:

  1. Hospitalization for severe cases
  2. Fasting to allow the pancreas to rest
  3. Intravenous fluids and pain medications
  4. Addressing the underlying cause (e.g., gallstones, alcohol use)
  5. Dietary changes and enzyme supplements for ongoing management

Weak Pelvic Floor Muscles: An Often Overlooked Cause

Weak pelvic floor muscles can contribute to lower abdominal pain and urinary incontinence, which may be exacerbated by coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. This condition is more common in women, particularly after childbirth or menopause, but can affect anyone.

Symptoms of weak pelvic floor muscles include:

  • Lower abdominal discomfort
  • Urinary incontinence, especially during physical activities or coughing
  • Difficulty controlling bowel movements
  • Reduced sensation during sexual intercourse

Strengthening Pelvic Floor Muscles

Improving pelvic floor muscle strength can help alleviate symptoms and reduce pain associated with coughing. Treatment options include:

  1. Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
  2. Physical therapy with a specialist in pelvic floor disorders
  3. Biofeedback training to improve muscle control
  4. In severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered

If you experience persistent lower abdominal pain or urinary incontinence, especially when coughing or during physical activities, consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Stomach Pain When Coughing

While occasional mild discomfort during coughing is normal, persistent or severe stomach pain when coughing warrants medical attention. You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t subside
  • Pain accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting
  • Blood in your stool or urine
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Persistent cough lasting more than a few weeks
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Changes in bowel habits or urinary patterns

Remember, early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions can prevent complications and improve your overall health. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you’re concerned about stomach pain associated with coughing or any other persistent symptoms.

Diagnostic Approaches for Abdominal Pain

When evaluating stomach pain that occurs during coughing, healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools, including:

  1. Physical examination and medical history review
  2. Blood tests to check for infection or inflammation markers
  3. Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans
  4. Endoscopic procedures for direct visualization of the digestive tract
  5. Specialized tests based on suspected conditions (e.g., cystoscopy for bladder issues)

By identifying the underlying cause of your stomach pain, healthcare providers can recommend appropriate treatment options to alleviate your symptoms and address any potential health concerns.

11 Reasons Why Your Stomach May Hurt When You Cough

Coughing is your body’s natural way of removing irritants from your throat. Sometimes, a forceful cough may hurt your chest and abdomen.

However, if you frequently experience stomach aches whenever you cough, this may be a sign that there’s something else going on in your body.

Depending on the underlying cause, stomach discomfort from coughing may vary in intensity from a mild or dull ache to sharp, severe pain.

And it might not just be caused by coughing. Your stomach may also hurt when you laugh, sneeze, or exercise.

Any sudden or ongoing stomach pain experienced with other symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor. Due to the various causes of stomach pain, you should never self-diagnose yourself.

This article will review some of the most common causes of stomach pain that may be exacerbated by coughing. See a doctor if you experience symptoms related to the following conditions.

Any inflammation in the abdomen can cause pain with coughing, so the conditions noted in this article aren’t exhaustive.

Please see a doctor if you experience sudden abdominal pain with or without coughing.

Was this helpful?

Potential conditionSymptoms
appendicitisabdominal swelling or bloating,
fever,
nausea or vomiting,
constipation or diarrhea,
decreased appetite
cystitisfrequent urination,
cloudy or dark urine that’s also foul-smelling,
blood in your urine,
general feelings of unwellness
diverticular diseaseabdominal pain,
bloating,
nausea or vomiting,
fever or chills,
bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea,
blood in your stool (rare)
endometriosissignificant pain in the lower back, pelvis, and abdominal areas, especially during menstruation, sex, urination, and bowel movements
gallstonesabdominal pain that’s severe and lasts for at least 30 minutes at a time,
abdominal bloating,
pain in your upper back or right shoulder,
fever or chills,
jaundice,
gas or indigestion, especially after eating fatty foods,
nausea or vomiting
herniabulging in your belly or groin area along with pain that gets more severe when you cough, sneeze, lift heavy objects, or pass bowel movements
kidney stonessevere abdominal pain,
severe pain on one or both sides of your back,
stomach ache,
cloudy or foul-smelling urine,
bloody urine,
fever or chills,
nausea or vomiting
ovarian cystslower abdominal pain (mild to severe),
sharp pain in the side of your stomach,
abdominal bloating or swelling
pancreatitisabdominal pain that gets more severe over time,
pain in the abdomen that spreads to your lower back,
abdominal swelling,
loose or foul-smelling stools,
unintentional weight loss
weak pelvic muscleslower abdominal pain and urinary incontinence, which may be worsened when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise

Appendicitis means your appendix is inflamed. When this happens, you may experience severe abdominal pain that gets worse when you cough, sneeze, and exercise.

Other symptoms of appendicitis include:

  • abdominal swelling or bloating
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting
  • constipation or diarrhea
  • decreased appetite

There’s no one single cause for appendicitis. But it’s important to identify and treat this condition before your appendix ruptures.

Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency that’s most often treated with surgery to remove your appendix. Mild appendicitis may also be treated with antibiotics.

Lower abdominal pain is also just one symptom of cystitis, a common type of urinary tract infection.

Other symptoms include:

  • frequent urination
  • cloudy or dark urine that’s also foul-smelling
  • blood in your urine
  • general feelings of unwellness

Cystitis is more common in women, and mild cases resolve within 3 days. However, if symptoms get worse, you should see a doctor for diagnosis. They may prescribe antibiotics for treatment.

Recurring and severe cases may be a sign of interstitial cystitis (IC). You may have severe pain around your stomach, pelvis, or bladder that gets worse with activity.

Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage IC. Surgery is a less common option.

Diverticular disease occurs when small sacs push out against weak spots of your colon.

While mild cases don’t cause any symptoms, progression of this disease may cause:

  • abdominal pain
  • bloating
  • nausea or vomiting
  • fever or chills
  • bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea
  • blood in your stool (rare)

If you experience any of the above symptoms, see your doctor. Once diagnosed with diverticular disease, your doctor may recommend a combination of medications, a high fiber diet, and probiotics.

Blood in your stool is rare with this condition, but it’s considered a medical emergency.

In the United States, endometriosis affects at least 11 percent of women aged 15 to 44.

It occurs when tissues similar to uterine lining grow outside your uterus. This results in significant pain in the lower back, pelvis, and lower abdominal areas, especially during:

  • periods
  • sex
  • urination
  • bowel movements

Endometriosis isn’t considered a medical emergency, but it can cause infertility.

If you experience the above symptoms, along with digestive issues or bleeding between periods, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Gallstones occur when there’s too much bile, bilirubin, or cholesterol built up in your gallbladder. While asymptomatic at first, gallstones can lead to gallblader attacks as they get bigger.

Symptoms of gallstones include:

  • abdominal pain that’s severe and lasts for at least 30 minutes at a time
  • abdominal bloating
  • pain in your upper back or right shoulder
  • fever or chills
  • jaundice
  • gas or indigestion, especially after eating fatty foods
  • nausea or vomiting

Gallstones may be surgically removed. Or your doctor may prescribe medications that help dissolve the gallstones.

Signs of a medical emergency include persistent fever and chills, sweating, and clay-colored stools.

Hernias occur when an organ — typically the bowel — pushes through a gap in the muscles of the abdominal wall. You may notice bulging in your belly or groin area.

You may experience pain that gets more severe when you:

  • cough
  • sneeze
  • run
  • lift heavy items
  • pass a bowel movement

If the gap is large enough, the bowels may slide in and out of the gap easily. This isn’t considered an emergency.

If the bowel gets stuck, it’s an emergency. The blood supply to that part of the bowel is usually cut off and that section of the bowel can die.

Emergency symptoms include:

  • severe pain that doesn’t get better upon rest
  • significant abdominal bulging or bloating
  • increased heart rate
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting
  • inability to pass a bowel movement

Hernias may be effectively treated with surgery to help repair gaps in your abdominal area.

Kidney stones consist of hardened deposits that are usually found in urine. When a kidney stone passes through your bladder and urethra, you may experience severe abdominal pain.

A persistent stomachache is also associated with this condition.

Other symptoms include:

  • severe pain on one or both sides of your back
  • cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • bloody urine
  • fever or chills
  • nausea or vomiting

Kidney stones may resolve on their own with or without medication. Drinking extra water can also help.

If the stone is too large to pass, however, your doctor may recommend surgery. Emergency surgical removal is also warranted in cases of infection or if the stone blocks your ability to pass urine.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in ovaries. Most ovarian cysts aren’t cause for concern, even when they burst. Your body naturally takes care of them as part of the normal menstrual cycle.

However, an estimated 8 percent of premenopausal women have large ovarian cysts that require treatment.

Symptoms of problematic ovarian cysts include:

  • lower abdominal pain
  • sharp pain in the side of your stomach
  • abdominal bloating or swelling

Mild cysts may be treated with birth control pills. Surgery is typically reserved for large cysts that don’t respond to medications, or for those that are deemed cancerous.

In some instances, a ruptured cyst may cause severe abdominal pain along with:

  • heavy bleeding
  • nausea or vomiting
  • fever
  • rapid breathing
  • dizziness or fainting

If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away.

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed. Cases can be more acute or chronic, with acute pancreatitis causing more severe symptoms at first.

Chronic pancreatitis may lead to permanent damage of your pancreas.

Symptoms include:

  • abdominal pain that gets more severe over time
  • pain in the abdomen that spreads to your lower back
  • abdominal swelling
  • loose or foul-smelling stools
  • unintentional weight loss

Symptoms of severe pancreatitis

Severe pancreatitis may require emergency medical care. It can be fatal if left untreated.

Seek medical help right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • severe abdominal pain that gets worse, especially with movement
  • increased heart rate
  • shortness of breath
  • jaundice
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting

Was this helpful?

While not considered a medical emergency, weak pelvic floor muscles can cause pain and discomfort in some people with vaginas.

This is a common condition that affects an estimated 1 in 3 women in the United States.

Lower abdominal pain and urinary incontinence are common symptoms of pelvic floor disorders, which may be worsened when you:

  • cough
  • laugh
  • sneeze
  • exercise

Your doctor may recommend pelvic floor exercises or medications to help alleviate your symptoms. More severe cases may require physical therapy or surgery.

Coughing is a natural reflex. But if it exacerbates or induces stomach pain, it’s important to talk with a doctor.

This is especially the case if you’re experiencing any other unusual symptoms.

Due to the wide range of health conditions that can affect the abdominal area, it’s crucial to obtain a correct diagnosis.

11 Reasons Why Your Stomach May Hurt When You Cough

Coughing is your body’s natural way of removing irritants from your throat. Sometimes, a forceful cough may hurt your chest and abdomen.

However, if you frequently experience stomach aches whenever you cough, this may be a sign that there’s something else going on in your body.

Depending on the underlying cause, stomach discomfort from coughing may vary in intensity from a mild or dull ache to sharp, severe pain.

And it might not just be caused by coughing. Your stomach may also hurt when you laugh, sneeze, or exercise.

Any sudden or ongoing stomach pain experienced with other symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor. Due to the various causes of stomach pain, you should never self-diagnose yourself.

This article will review some of the most common causes of stomach pain that may be exacerbated by coughing. See a doctor if you experience symptoms related to the following conditions.

Any inflammation in the abdomen can cause pain with coughing, so the conditions noted in this article aren’t exhaustive.

Please see a doctor if you experience sudden abdominal pain with or without coughing.

Was this helpful?

Potential conditionSymptoms
appendicitisabdominal swelling or bloating,
fever,
nausea or vomiting,
constipation or diarrhea,
decreased appetite
cystitisfrequent urination,
cloudy or dark urine that’s also foul-smelling,
blood in your urine,
general feelings of unwellness
diverticular diseaseabdominal pain,
bloating,
nausea or vomiting,
fever or chills,
bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea,
blood in your stool (rare)
endometriosissignificant pain in the lower back, pelvis, and abdominal areas, especially during menstruation, sex, urination, and bowel movements
gallstonesabdominal pain that’s severe and lasts for at least 30 minutes at a time,
abdominal bloating,
pain in your upper back or right shoulder,
fever or chills,
jaundice,
gas or indigestion, especially after eating fatty foods,
nausea or vomiting
herniabulging in your belly or groin area along with pain that gets more severe when you cough, sneeze, lift heavy objects, or pass bowel movements
kidney stonessevere abdominal pain,
severe pain on one or both sides of your back,
stomach ache,
cloudy or foul-smelling urine,
bloody urine,
fever or chills,
nausea or vomiting
ovarian cystslower abdominal pain (mild to severe),
sharp pain in the side of your stomach,
abdominal bloating or swelling
pancreatitisabdominal pain that gets more severe over time,
pain in the abdomen that spreads to your lower back,
abdominal swelling,
loose or foul-smelling stools,
unintentional weight loss
weak pelvic muscleslower abdominal pain and urinary incontinence, which may be worsened when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise

Appendicitis means your appendix is inflamed. When this happens, you may experience severe abdominal pain that gets worse when you cough, sneeze, and exercise.

Other symptoms of appendicitis include:

  • abdominal swelling or bloating
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting
  • constipation or diarrhea
  • decreased appetite

There’s no one single cause for appendicitis. But it’s important to identify and treat this condition before your appendix ruptures.

Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency that’s most often treated with surgery to remove your appendix. Mild appendicitis may also be treated with antibiotics.

Lower abdominal pain is also just one symptom of cystitis, a common type of urinary tract infection.

Other symptoms include:

  • frequent urination
  • cloudy or dark urine that’s also foul-smelling
  • blood in your urine
  • general feelings of unwellness

Cystitis is more common in women, and mild cases resolve within 3 days. However, if symptoms get worse, you should see a doctor for diagnosis. They may prescribe antibiotics for treatment.

Recurring and severe cases may be a sign of interstitial cystitis (IC). You may have severe pain around your stomach, pelvis, or bladder that gets worse with activity.

Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage IC. Surgery is a less common option.

Diverticular disease occurs when small sacs push out against weak spots of your colon.

While mild cases don’t cause any symptoms, progression of this disease may cause:

  • abdominal pain
  • bloating
  • nausea or vomiting
  • fever or chills
  • bowel changes, such as constipation or diarrhea
  • blood in your stool (rare)

If you experience any of the above symptoms, see your doctor. Once diagnosed with diverticular disease, your doctor may recommend a combination of medications, a high fiber diet, and probiotics.

Blood in your stool is rare with this condition, but it’s considered a medical emergency.

In the United States, endometriosis affects at least 11 percent of women aged 15 to 44.

It occurs when tissues similar to uterine lining grow outside your uterus. This results in significant pain in the lower back, pelvis, and lower abdominal areas, especially during:

  • periods
  • sex
  • urination
  • bowel movements

Endometriosis isn’t considered a medical emergency, but it can cause infertility.

If you experience the above symptoms, along with digestive issues or bleeding between periods, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Gallstones occur when there’s too much bile, bilirubin, or cholesterol built up in your gallbladder. While asymptomatic at first, gallstones can lead to gallblader attacks as they get bigger.

Symptoms of gallstones include:

  • abdominal pain that’s severe and lasts for at least 30 minutes at a time
  • abdominal bloating
  • pain in your upper back or right shoulder
  • fever or chills
  • jaundice
  • gas or indigestion, especially after eating fatty foods
  • nausea or vomiting

Gallstones may be surgically removed. Or your doctor may prescribe medications that help dissolve the gallstones.

Signs of a medical emergency include persistent fever and chills, sweating, and clay-colored stools.

Hernias occur when an organ — typically the bowel — pushes through a gap in the muscles of the abdominal wall. You may notice bulging in your belly or groin area.

You may experience pain that gets more severe when you:

  • cough
  • sneeze
  • run
  • lift heavy items
  • pass a bowel movement

If the gap is large enough, the bowels may slide in and out of the gap easily. This isn’t considered an emergency.

If the bowel gets stuck, it’s an emergency. The blood supply to that part of the bowel is usually cut off and that section of the bowel can die.

Emergency symptoms include:

  • severe pain that doesn’t get better upon rest
  • significant abdominal bulging or bloating
  • increased heart rate
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting
  • inability to pass a bowel movement

Hernias may be effectively treated with surgery to help repair gaps in your abdominal area.

Kidney stones consist of hardened deposits that are usually found in urine. When a kidney stone passes through your bladder and urethra, you may experience severe abdominal pain.

A persistent stomachache is also associated with this condition.

Other symptoms include:

  • severe pain on one or both sides of your back
  • cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • bloody urine
  • fever or chills
  • nausea or vomiting

Kidney stones may resolve on their own with or without medication. Drinking extra water can also help.

If the stone is too large to pass, however, your doctor may recommend surgery. Emergency surgical removal is also warranted in cases of infection or if the stone blocks your ability to pass urine.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in ovaries. Most ovarian cysts aren’t cause for concern, even when they burst. Your body naturally takes care of them as part of the normal menstrual cycle.

However, an estimated 8 percent of premenopausal women have large ovarian cysts that require treatment.

Symptoms of problematic ovarian cysts include:

  • lower abdominal pain
  • sharp pain in the side of your stomach
  • abdominal bloating or swelling

Mild cysts may be treated with birth control pills. Surgery is typically reserved for large cysts that don’t respond to medications, or for those that are deemed cancerous.

In some instances, a ruptured cyst may cause severe abdominal pain along with:

  • heavy bleeding
  • nausea or vomiting
  • fever
  • rapid breathing
  • dizziness or fainting

If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away.

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed. Cases can be more acute or chronic, with acute pancreatitis causing more severe symptoms at first.

Chronic pancreatitis may lead to permanent damage of your pancreas.

Symptoms include:

  • abdominal pain that gets more severe over time
  • pain in the abdomen that spreads to your lower back
  • abdominal swelling
  • loose or foul-smelling stools
  • unintentional weight loss

Symptoms of severe pancreatitis

Severe pancreatitis may require emergency medical care. It can be fatal if left untreated.

Seek medical help right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • severe abdominal pain that gets worse, especially with movement
  • increased heart rate
  • shortness of breath
  • jaundice
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting

Was this helpful?

While not considered a medical emergency, weak pelvic floor muscles can cause pain and discomfort in some people with vaginas.

This is a common condition that affects an estimated 1 in 3 women in the United States.

Lower abdominal pain and urinary incontinence are common symptoms of pelvic floor disorders, which may be worsened when you:

  • cough
  • laugh
  • sneeze
  • exercise

Your doctor may recommend pelvic floor exercises or medications to help alleviate your symptoms. More severe cases may require physical therapy or surgery.

Coughing is a natural reflex. But if it exacerbates or induces stomach pain, it’s important to talk with a doctor.

This is especially the case if you’re experiencing any other unusual symptoms.

Due to the wide range of health conditions that can affect the abdominal area, it’s crucial to obtain a correct diagnosis.

why a child, woman or man’s stomach can hurt when coughing

Published: May 24

Updated: May 31

Reading time: 4 minutes

A severe cough often causes pain in the abdomen. This happens due to irritation of nerve endings, muscle tension or inflammation of internal organs. The final diagnosis is established by the doctor, and Rengalin can be used to relieve cough and associated pain.

Why does my stomach hurt when I cough

A coughing fit is a series of coughing shocks – sharp contractions of the muscles of the bronchi and chest that occur in response to irritation of the respiratory mucosa by inflammation or a foreign body. The following are involved in the formation of cough shocks:

  • spinal and cranial nerves;
  • intercostal muscles;
  • diaphragm;
  • bronchial muscles.

The thoracic and abdominal cavities are located next to each other, so the problem in one of them is reflexively reflected in the other. This explains the pain in the abdomen when coughing. Pain occurs for various reasons:

  • excessive muscle tension;
  • nerve impulse propagation;
  • inflammation of internal organs.

Consider why a wet and dry cough causes stomach pain in women, men and children.

Abdominal pain when coughing in a woman

In women, the muscular frame of the abdomen differs from that of men – it is less voluminous and not as strong. Muscles are more susceptible to stress, get tired faster. A cough is a sharp, very strong muscle contraction. Therefore, with a dry cough in women, the abdominal muscles quickly begin to hurt.

During a woman’s menstruation, the tissues of the uterus and abdominal wall become very sensitive and susceptible to mechanical stress. At the beginning of the cycle, the wave of tension that occurs when coughing is felt more strongly than on other days, so the woman has pain in the lower abdomen.

For similar reasons, pain in the lower abdomen during coughing bothers pregnant women. During pregnancy, the uterus enlarges, the muscles and skin of the abdomen stretch. Nerve endings become sensitive to any effect, so when a pregnant woman coughs, abdominal pain increases.

Inflammation of the internal organs also contributes to increased discomfort during coughing. For example, pain on the right or left below signals inflammation of the ovaries. Discomfort in the right hypochondrium indicates inflammation of the liver, and in the left – a problem with the pancreas.

Abdominal pain when coughing in a man

In men, when coughing, the lower abdomen often hurts, which may indicate inflammation of the prostate gland. Swelling of the tissues around the prostate easily reacts to the spread of a wave of cough shock, which causes discomfort.

Muscle pain is caused by a prolonged, very severe paroxysmal cough. The tension from the diaphragm is transferred to the muscles of the press, so they hurt from coughing.

Sometimes it hurts the stomach from coughing due to diseases of other internal organs:

  • the right side of the lower abdomen hurts with inflammation of the liver;
  • the left side of the lower abdomen hurts with inflammation of the caecum, less often the spleen;
  • in the central upper part of the abdomen, when coughing, the stomach and intestines hurt.

In men, hernias are often formed – a divergence of muscle fibers and protrusion of the peritoneum, intestines and even internal organs into these openings. The reason for this is a prolonged increase in intra-abdominal pressure – due to hard physical work, chronic constipation. Hernias cause sharp pain when moving, bending over, lifting weights, paroxysmal coughing.

Abdominal pain when coughing in a child

Children often complain of abdominal pain when they cough for a long time. A very small child still does not know how to correctly perceive and convey their feelings. Therefore, he may say that his stomach hurts, even if he actually feels discomfort in his chest.

The child has a stomach ache with prolonged coughing due to excessive muscle tension. Since they are poorly developed in children, they begin to get tired and get sick pretty quickly. The child complains of discomfort in the upper abdomen, on the sides.

Prolonged cough that causes muscle pain, usually without fever. It is residual, there is no active inflammation, therefore, the temperature remains within the normal range. If the child complains of pain in the abdomen, and at the same time there is an increase in temperature, one should think about inflammation of the internal organs. In childhood, the most likely cause is appendicitis, an acute intestinal infection. With these symptoms, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.

What to do if your stomach hurts when you cough

Abdominal pain with a strong cough in an adult, and even more so in a child, requires a medical examination. Cough must be treated, as it causes pain.

Specialists may recommend Rengalin, which is indicated for the treatment of dry and wet coughs. The drug has 3 actions at the same time, which contribute to a significant relief of the condition and relief of cough:

  • antitussive
  • anti-inflammatory
  • bronchodilator

Rengalin is available as lozenges and oral solution.

The regimen is as follows:

  • 1-2 tablets 3-6 times a day;
  • 1-2 teaspoons of solution 3-6 times a day.

The duration of the appointment is determined by the doctor depending on the disease. Rengalin can be combined with other drugs, including mucolytics. The drug does not cause drowsiness, decreased concentration and addiction.

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Both cough and abdominal pain

Rotavirus infection is one of the most common diseases. In terms of incidence, rotavirus infection is second only to SARS.

The disease begins acutely. A detailed picture of the disease is formed within 12-24 hours from the onset of the disease. Most hospitalized children have a body temperature of 37.9° C and above, in severe cases – above 39 ° C. In mild forms of the disease, there is no pronounced fever.

Patients report pain in the epigastric region, nausea, and vomiting. An important diagnostic feature is the combination of two leading clinical syndromes: gastroenteritis and upper respiratory tract symptoms. Catarrhal syndrome occurs in approximately 50% of patients and manifests itself in the form of hyperemia and granularity of the mucous membranes of the soft palate, palatine arches, uvula, posterior pharyngeal wall, as well as runny nose, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat.

In some cases, catarrhal symptoms are observed already in the prodromal period, before the symptoms of gastroenteritis appear. On examination, redness of the pharynx, an increase in cervical lymph nodes are often noted. Abundant liquid watery stools without admixture of mucus and blood are characteristic.

Large loose stools may cause dehydration. Rotavirus infection can also be asymptomatic; such cases have often been found in newborns. This course further protects children from severe rotavirus gastroenteritis during the first 3 years of life. With a late onset or lack of treatment, increasing dehydration and intoxication can lead to death. In developing countries, where medical care is sometimes difficult to access, mortality from rotavirus infection is especially high.

According to WHO, from 1 to 3 million children die from this infection in the world every year. It is believed that 30-50% of all cases of diarrhea requiring hospitalization are caused by rotaviruses.

In families where a child falls ill, adults often fall ill. Elderly people with weakened immune systems can also get sick. Rotavirus infection accounts for about 25% of cases of so-called traveler’s diarrhea. Diseases are recorded throughout the year, however, over 70% of patients are detected in the winter-spring period. A high incidence in organized preschool groups is characteristic.

Rotaviruses are also known as one of the main etiological agents in hospital outbreaks of gastroenteritis in maternity hospitals and children’s medical hospitals.

There are no specific drugs that act on the causative agent of the disease. Treatment is aimed at replenishing the deficiency of fluid and electrolytes in the body.

Rotaviruses are resistant to environmental factors, withstand the action of ether, chloroform, ultrasound; they are not destroyed by repeated freezing. They die while processing 95% ethanol. The virus loses activity when boiled, treated with strong acids and alkalis. The main mode of transmission of rotaviruses is fecal-oral.

Waterborne and foodborne outbreaks of rotavirus infection have been reported. The spread of rotaviruses is carried out mainly by the contact-household way, while a variety of virus-infected objects surrounding the patient are involved. The source of infection in rotavirus gastroenteritis is an infected person – sick or asymptomatically shedding rotaviruses with feces. Viruses in the feces of patients appear simultaneously with the development of clinical symptoms, their highest concentration in the feces is recorded in the first 3-5 days of illness.

These days, patients pose the greatest epidemiological danger to persons in contact with them. Mothers infected with rotavirus are the most common source of disease for children in their first year of life; for adults and older children – children, mainly from children’s groups.

The possibility of human infection from animals has not been proven. In adults, in 90% of cases, antibodies are formed as a result of repeated rotavirus infections, but due to the variety of strains, immunity is unstable and does not completely save from repeated diseases.