What are the most common causes of stomach pain in the morning. How can you differentiate between harmless discomfort and a more serious condition. When should you consult a doctor for morning stomach pain.

Understanding Acid Reflux and GERD: A Major Culprit for Morning Stomach Pain

Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are among the most common causes of stomach pain in the morning. These conditions occur when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation and discomfort.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, approximately 60 million people in the United States experience heartburn, the primary symptom of acid reflux, at least once a month. When these episodes become more frequent, occurring more than twice a week, it may indicate GERD.

How does acid reflux affect your stomach in the morning?

Acid reflux can cause pain in the middle of the abdomen, particularly in the morning. This discomfort is often accompanied by a burning sensation in the back of the mouth. If left untreated, GERD can lead to more severe complications, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing these symptoms early.

Gastritis and Stomach Ulcers: Inflammation and Pain

Gastritis and stomach ulcers are two conditions that can cause significant stomach pain, especially in the morning. Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining, while stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are sores in the stomach lining or the lining of the small intestine closest to the stomach.

What are the symptoms of gastritis and stomach ulcers?

• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Feeling of fullness
• Dull or burning stomach pain

Both conditions can develop suddenly or gradually over time. If you experience persistent stomach pain, particularly in the morning, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gastroenteritis: The Stomach Flu Connection

Gastroenteritis, often referred to as stomach flu, is a viral or bacterial infection that affects the stomach and intestines. This condition can cause significant discomfort, including stomach pain and diarrhea, which may be particularly noticeable in the morning.

How long does gastroenteritis typically last?

Most cases of gastroenteritis resolve within a few days to a week. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest are key to recovery.

Appendicitis: A Medical Emergency to Watch For

Appendicitis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and can cause severe abdominal pain that often starts around the navel and moves to the lower right side of the abdomen.

What are the warning signs of appendicitis?

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain that worsens over time
• Pain that starts near the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Loss of appetite

If you suspect appendicitis, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care immediately. Prompt treatment, often involving surgery, is necessary to prevent complications.

Crohn’s Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Chronic Digestive Disorders

Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic conditions that can cause recurring stomach pain, including discomfort in the morning. While both affect the digestive system, they have distinct characteristics and treatment approaches.

How do Crohn’s disease and IBS differ?

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. It causes inflammation, leading to symptoms such as:

• Abdominal cramping and pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Weight loss
• Fatigue

On the other hand, IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by changes in bowel habits and abdominal pain. Common symptoms include:

• Stomach pain
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Bloating
• Incomplete bowel movements

Both conditions require proper diagnosis and management to improve quality of life and prevent complications.

Indigestion and Food Allergies: Dietary Factors in Morning Stomach Pain

Indigestion, medically known as dyspepsia, and food allergies are two diet-related factors that can contribute to stomach pain in the morning. Understanding these conditions can help in identifying triggers and managing symptoms effectively.

Can certain foods cause morning stomach pain?

Yes, certain foods can trigger indigestion or allergic reactions, leading to stomach pain. Indigestion can be caused by lifestyle choices, such as eating spicy or fatty foods, or it may be related to underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of indigestion include:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Feeling full quickly when eating

Food allergies, which affect 4-6% of children and 4% of adults, can also cause stomach pain. Other symptoms of food allergies may include:

• Nausea
• Hives
• In severe cases, anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction)

If you suspect food allergies or persistent indigestion, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.

Abdominal Adhesions and Diverticular Disease: Lesser-Known Causes of Morning Stomach Pain

Abdominal adhesions and diverticular disease are two less commonly discussed causes of stomach pain that can manifest in the morning. Understanding these conditions can help in recognizing their symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care.

What are abdominal adhesions?

Abdominal adhesions are bands of scar tissue that form between abdominal tissues and organs. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 9 out of 10 people who undergo open abdominal surgery develop adhesions. While most people with adhesions don’t experience complications, those who do may suffer from:

• Chronic stomach pain
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Nausea

How common is diverticular disease?

Diverticular disease, or diverticulosis, affects approximately half of the population over age 60. It occurs when small pouches (diverticula) form in the colon wall. While these pouches are often harmless, they can become infected or inflamed, leading to a condition called diverticulitis. Symptoms of diverticulitis may include:

• Stomach pain (typically on the left side)
• Fever
• Nausea
• More severe complications in some cases

If you experience persistent or severe abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by fever or other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and Celiac Disease: Gender-Specific and Autoimmune Causes

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and Celiac Disease are two distinct conditions that can cause stomach pain in the morning, each affecting specific populations. Understanding these conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection that affects a person’s reproductive organs, including the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and cervix. According to the Office on Women’s Health, about 5% of women in the U.S. have PID, with the highest prevalence among women aged 15-24. Symptoms of PID include:

• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Fever
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain during sexual intercourse or urination

PID requires prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications, including infertility.

How does Celiac Disease affect the digestive system?

Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with Celiac Disease consume gluten, it can lead to various symptoms, including:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

Diagnosis of Celiac Disease typically involves blood tests and possibly a small intestine biopsy. Treatment involves strict adherence to a gluten-free diet.

When to See a Doctor for Morning Stomach Pain

While occasional stomach discomfort in the morning may not be cause for alarm, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Understanding when to seek help can be crucial for early diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious conditions.

What symptoms indicate a need for urgent medical care?

If you experience any of the following symptoms along with morning stomach pain, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly:

1. Severe or persistent abdominal pain
2. Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
3. Bloody stools or vomit
4. Sudden and unexplained weight loss
5. Difficulty swallowing or breathing
6. Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
7. Severe nausea and vomiting
8. Signs of dehydration

Remember, early intervention can often prevent complications and lead to better outcomes. If you’re unsure about the severity of your symptoms, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies for Managing Morning Stomach Pain

While medical attention is necessary for many causes of morning stomach pain, some lifestyle modifications and home remedies can help alleviate mild symptoms and prevent recurrence.

How can you manage mild stomach pain at home?

Here are some strategies that may help manage mild stomach discomfort:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overloading your digestive system
• Avoid trigger foods that may cause indigestion or allergic reactions
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Elevate your head while sleeping to reduce acid reflux symptoms
• Use over-the-counter antacids as directed for occasional heartburn
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods into your diet to support digestive health
• Exercise regularly to promote healthy digestion and reduce stress

While these measures can be helpful for minor discomfort, persistent or severe pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Diagnostic Procedures for Identifying the Cause of Morning Stomach Pain

When persistent stomach pain in the morning becomes a concern, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic procedures to identify the underlying cause. Understanding these tests can help patients prepare and know what to expect during the diagnostic process.

What tests might a doctor order to diagnose the cause of morning stomach pain?

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic procedures:

1. Blood tests: To check for infections, inflammation, or other systemic issues
2. Stool tests: To detect parasites, bacteria, or blood in the stool
3. Endoscopy: A procedure that uses a small camera to examine the upper digestive tract
4. Colonoscopy: Similar to an endoscopy, but used to examine the large intestine
5. Ultrasound: To visualize abdominal organs and detect any abnormalities
6. CT scan: To provide detailed images of the abdominal area
7. MRI: To obtain high-resolution images of soft tissues
8. H. pylori breath test: To detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria, which can cause ulcers
9. Gastric emptying study: To evaluate how quickly food moves through the stomach

Your healthcare provider will determine which tests are most appropriate based on your specific symptoms and medical history. It’s important to follow all pre-test instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Long-Term Management and Prevention of Morning Stomach Pain

Once the cause of morning stomach pain has been identified, focus shifts to long-term management and prevention strategies. Developing a comprehensive plan can help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, improving overall quality of life.

How can you prevent recurrent morning stomach pain?

Here are some strategies for long-term management and prevention of morning stomach pain:

• Follow a balanced diet tailored to your specific condition (e.g., low-FODMAP diet for IBS, gluten-free diet for celiac disease)
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule to support healthy digestion
• Practice good sleep hygiene, including avoiding large meals before bedtime
• Manage stress through regular exercise, meditation, or counseling
• Take prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider
• Attend regular check-ups to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed
• Keep a symptom diary to identify triggers and patterns
• Consider working with a registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as these can exacerbate digestive issues

Remember that effective management often requires a multifaceted approach and may involve collaboration between various healthcare professionals. Be patient and consistent with your treatment plan, and don’t hesitate to communicate any changes or concerns to your healthcare provider.

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.

Stomach Pain in the Morning: Causes, Symptoms, and More

Abdominal pain can occur with multiple health conditions, including ulcers, indigestion, and inflammatory bowel disease. You may experience additional symptoms depending on the cause.

Everyone experiences stomach pain at some point. The pain can be a cramping sensation that leaves you curled up in a fetal position, or a dull, intermittent ache that comes and goes.

But while abdominal pain can be episodic and occur at anytime, you may experience pain primarily in the mornings. The underlying cause could be something you ate the night before, inflammation, or your intestines preparing for a bowel movement.

Even though morning stomach pain is probably nothing to worry about, you shouldn’t ignore a severe ache that doesn’t go away. Persistent pain could indicate a serious problem, so seek medical attention immediately.

Here’s a look at 10 potential causes of morning stomach pain.

A stomach ulcer is a sore that develops in the lining of your stomach. It can cause a burning or dull pain in the middle of the stomach, in the space between your chest and belly button.

Pain can happen any time, but you might have increased discomfort in the mornings because pain can occur when the stomach is empty.

An over-the-counter antacid or acid blocker can relieve symptoms, but you should see a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist.

If an ulcer causes a hole in the abdominal wall, emergency surgery may be needed.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects the large intestines. It can cause pain on the lower right or lower left side of the stomach. Other symptoms include:

• diarrhea or constipation
• excessive gas
• mucus in the stool
• bloating

Certain foods and stress can trigger IBS, so you may experience worsening symptoms in the morning if you’re worried or stressed about school or work.

There’s no cure for IBS, but lifestyle habits may improve symptoms. Avoid trigger foods, including:

• dairy
• carbonated drinks
• fried or fatty foods

Other good lifestyle habits are:

• getting regular exercise
• practicing stress management
• taking a fiber supplement or anti-diarrheal medication

Some medications are approved for people with IBS, so talk to your doctor if symptoms don’t improve with home remedies.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for two conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both can cause stomach pain around the belly button or the lower right abdomen, and some people experience pain in the mornings.

Crohn’s disease can affect the entire digestive tract and causes other symptoms, such as:

• diarrhea
• weight loss
• anemia
• nausea
• fatigue

Stress and certain foods and drinks can make symptoms worse, such as carbonated drinks and high-fiber foods.

Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, affects only the colon, also known as the large intestine. Symptoms include:

• bloody diarrhea
• increased bowel urgency
• low energy
• weight loss

Since there’s no cure for IBD, the goal of treatment is reducing inflammation and improving symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication, an immunosuppressant, or an antibiotic.

Keeping a food diary can also help you isolate foods and beverages that trigger flares.

Constipation refers to fewer than three bowel movements a week. Irregular bowel activity can lead to trapped gas in your intestinal tract, resulting in severe cramping in the lower abdomen in the morning and at other times of the day.

Other symptoms include straining to have a bowel movement or feeling as if you haven’t completely emptied your rectum.

A sedentary lifestyle can trigger constipation. Increased physical activity may provide natural relief by stimulating intestinal contractions. In addition, a stool softener or fiber supplement, and eating more fruits and vegetables may improve symptoms.

See a doctor for constipation that lasts longer than two weeks.

Inflammation of the pancreas can cause pain in your upper abdomen, with pain radiating to your back. The pain is sometimes worse after eating, so you may experience discomfort after eating breakfast.

Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and a fever. Although mild pancreatitis may improve on its own or with an over-the-counter pain reliever, see a doctor for persistent pain that doesn’t improve.

Your doctor may prescribe medication to control inflammation or an enzyme supplement to help your body break down nutrients in food. Eating a low-fat diet can prevent future flares. Include foods such as:

• fruit
• whole grains
• vegetables
• lean protein

Diverticular disease is when small pockets or sacs develop in the wall of your large intestine. Diverticulitis occurs when one of these sacs becomes infected or inflamed, causing pain in the lower left abdomen.

Other symptoms can include:

• constipation
• fever
• nausea
• vomiting

Diverticulitis may or may not cause symptoms. Persistent and severe pain typically requires medical treatment. Your doctor can prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection, or you might need an outpatient procedure to drain an abscess.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected part of the colon. Diverticulitis pain may be worse in the morning and improve after passing gas or having a bowel movement.

Gallstones are hard deposits of digestive fluid in the gallbladder. Some people don’t have any symptoms, whereas others have intense pain in the upper abdomen or the middle abdomen below the breastbone.

Pain can also radiate to the right shoulder and shoulder blade. See a doctor for sudden, severe abdominal pain. Your doctor can give you medication to dissolve gallstones. If symptoms don’t improve, you may need surgery to remove the gallbladder. Pain may be worse at night and in the mornings.

Food allergies can also cause stomach pain. Common food allergens include:

• dairy
• shellfish
• wheat
• gluten
• nuts

A food allergy can cause symptoms like:

• stomach cramps
• vomiting
• nausea
• hives
• wheezing
• dizziness
• swelling of the tongue

Stomach pain caused by a food allergy might be worse in the morning if you consume trigger foods before bed, although symptoms can occur anytime of the day.

Celiac disease

If you have Celiac disease — an autoimmune disease where gluten causes inflammation in the small intestines — you may have stomach pain in the morning along with other symptoms like:

• diarrhea
• gas
• bloating
• anemia

An antihistamine might relieve some symptoms of a food allergy, such as hives, swelling, and itching. But it’s still important to identify and avoid foods that trigger a reaction because severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis.

This is a life-threatening reaction that can cause breathing difficulty and a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

See a doctor if you develop hives, itching, or wheezing after eating certain foods. A skin or blood test can confirm or rule out a food allergy.

Indigestion can cause pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, and nausea. Keep in mind that indigestion is a symptom of another condition, such as acid reflux, ulcers, or gallbladder disease.

Symptoms can occur after eating, so you may have stomach pain in the morning after breakfast. See a doctor if indigestion continues for more than two weeks, or if it’s accompanied by weight loss, vomiting, or black stools.

Eating smaller meals, regular exercise, and stress management may improve indigestion.

This infection of the female reproductive organs can cause:

• lower pelvic pain
• fever
• vaginal discharge
• painful urination or intercourse

Pelvic pain can occur any time of the day, but it may occur in the mornings for some women.

See doctor if you experience any stomach pain accompanied by a fever or foul vaginal discharge. Bacteria typically causes PID, so your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic.

Although stomach pain happens to everyone, you shouldn’t ignore stomach pain that’s persistent, sudden, or gradually worse. Seek immediate medical attention, especially when pain includes vomiting, bloody stools, or a fever.

Morning stomach pain can be caused by something as simple as constipation or gas, or it could be a sign of a condition that requires a special diet, prescription medication, or surgery.

Why does my stomach hurt in the morning? The gastroenterologist named 10 possible reasons

• Health

If the morning is not good at all due to sharp, pulling, or aching pains in the stomach, this is always an alarming sign. Nausea, lack of appetite, weakness – all these signs should be the reason for a visit to the doctor.

April 5, 2023

Source:

iStockphoto

Pain in the upper abdomen is most often associated with diseases of the stomach, but do not forget that discomfort in this area can also be associated with nearby organs. Moreover, pain can come from other areas along the nerve endings – this is the so-called radiation of pain .

Therefore, self-diagnosis and self-treatment can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous. Ekaterina Pustovit, general practitioner, gastroenterologist at the ABIA clinic, told Doctor Peter about the causes of pain in more detail.

Not only pain, but also other complaints

Pain in this area can be acute, occurring suddenly against the background of complete health, and chronic, disturbing for a long time. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms. But what are the reasons?

Read also

1. Stomach

Pain in the stomach can be associated with organic and functional problems of the organ. The first thing most often suspected is gastritis. We all remember very well that gastritis is a morphological diagnosis and may not give any symptoms at all. Nevertheless, a far-reaching inflammatory process can be the first cause of pain.

Gastritis can occur in acute and chronic form . In the case of chronic inflammation, pain will occur only during periods of exacerbations when provoked by irregular and malnutrition, stress, taking certain groups of drugs and alcohol abuse.

2. Erosions and ulcers

Erosive and ulcerative processes on the gastric mucosa will give night and early morning (fasting) pain. The disease is serious and requires immediate contact with a specialized specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

3. Helicobacter pylori infection

Inflammatory processes in the stomach are often associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. It is a spiral gram-negative bacterium that colonizes the lining of the stomach and duodenum. It can be present in a person without giving any symptoms. When infected with highly pathogenic strains mucosal damage occurs up to erosive-ulcerative and other processes.

Considering that this infection is associated not only with gastritis, erosions and stomach ulcers, but also with increased risks of adenocarcinoma and other cancers, it is better to diagnose this infection at the first symptoms and treat it according to the recommended therapy regimens.

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4. Dyspepsia

Often the cause of pain is a violation of the sensitivity of nerve endings in the gastric mucosa – this is the so-called functional dyspepsia (epigastric pain syndrome associated or not with the above infection). Functional diseases of the digestive system is a group of disorders characterized by violation of the interaction between the central (brain) and peripheral parts of the nervous system , which ensures the activity of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

The diagnosis of FZOP is a diagnosis of exclusion, therefore, to identify organic pathology, it is necessary to conduct a thorough examination – laboratory and instrumental. Epigastric pain syndrome is based on increased perception of the pain signal by the cerebral cortex . Pain is provoked and significantly increased under the influence of numerous factors associated with a violation of the emotional state.

5. Drug overdose

Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (for example, for frequent headaches or joint pain) can lead to irritation and inflammation of the gastric mucosa. As a result, pain occurs.

6. Biliary tract

Pathology of the biliary tract (dyskinesia) and incompetence of the pyloric sphincter will lead to bile entering the stomach, irritating it and provoking various dyspeptic symptoms – nausea, satiety in small portions and pain.

7. Pancreas

Pain in the stomach can be simulated by the pathology of the pancreas and gallbladder due to their close anatomical location and close functional connection.

Read also

8. Tumor of the stomach

Neoplasms of the stomach, benign and malignant, will also give pain. Benign ones are limited in size, do not grow into deep layers, do not affect vessels and do not metastasize . The danger of benign neoplasms is that they are can become malignant during their growth.

Neoplasms often give a permanent pain syndrome and are accompanied by general symptoms: headache, weakness, weight loss, nausea, poor appetite, satiety in small portions. Benign tumors may not make themselves felt for a long time due to functionally insignificant size, but as they grow, symptoms will increase, up to pain.

9. Wrong way of life

Stomach pain can be triggered by lifestyle. So, sleepless nights, a heavy dinner, smoking on an empty stomach, alcohol and excessive coffee consumption can provoke pain in the stomach.

10. Passion for a healthy lifestyle

Representatives of a healthy lifestyle can also do themselves a disservice by dramatically changing their eating style and increasing the amount of raw vegetables, fruits and herbs. This will stimulate GI motility and may cause pain. Multiple repetitions of abdominal exercises can also simulate epigastric pain.

Non-obvious causes

Separately, we highlight several non-obvious causes of pain in the upper abdomen.

1. Spasm of the diaphragm will increase in a certain position of the body.

2. Colitis , especially inflammation in the region of the transverse colon.

3. Appendicitis often starts with pain in the epigastrium, simulating gastritis, but then the pain shifts to its proper place – to the right in the iliac region.

4. Ischemic heart disease and abdominal form of myocardial infarction will give pain in the epigastric region, masquerading as diseases of the digestive system.

So everything is complicated and ambiguous with the only symptom – pain in the stomach. Each case is individual and requires careful examination.

Text author: Alena Paretskaya

Why does the stomach hurt 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.

See also

4. Erosions and stomach ulcers

Morning pain is typical for gastric 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.