What causes stomach pain in the morning? How to stop stomach pain in the morning? When to see a doctor about stomach pain?

Causes of Stomach Pain in the Morning

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

1. Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid irritates the lining of your stomach, esophagus, or upper intestine. Factors like medication, obesity, stress, alcohol, caffeine, and eating spicy or fatty foods can trigger indigestion. Symptoms usually appear after eating, so you may experience stomach pain right after breakfast.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that can be triggered by stress, lack of sleep, or disruptions to your circadian rhythm. If you’ve had a poor night’s sleep, abdominal pain from IBS may be worse the next day. Sleep disruption can also exacerbate IBS symptoms and visceral hypersensitivity (pain in your internal organs like the stomach).

3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD, which includes conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is a more serious gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Symptoms include stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss.

4. Constipation

Constipation, defined as infrequent or difficult bowel movements, can cause stomach pain. Common causes include stress, lack of fiber, dehydration, and lack of exercise.

5. Acid Reflux and GERD

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Chronic acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). One study found almost half of GERD patients experience an acid reflux event within 20 minutes of waking up.

How to Stop Stomach Pain in the Morning

There are several steps you can take to help prevent or alleviate morning stomach pain:

Lifestyle Changes

• Reduce intake of alcohol, caffeine, and spicy/fatty foods
• Eat smaller, slower meals
• Stay hydrated and increase fiber intake to prevent constipation
• Manage stress and anxiety
• Maintain a healthy sleep schedule and circadian rhythm
• Exercise regularly

Home Remedies

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin (but these can also irritate the stomach)
• Ginger ale or peppermint tea

When to See a Doctor

If you’re regularly waking up with severe or persistent stomach pain, or if the pain is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like blood in your stool, significant weight loss, or difficulty swallowing, it’s important to see a doctor. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

How to Fall Back Asleep When Your Stomach Hurts

If you wake up with stomach pain that’s preventing you from falling back asleep, try these tips:

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation
• Avoid stimulating activities like using your phone or watching TV
• Get up and do a light, calming activity until you feel sleepy again
• Sip on herbal tea or warm milk
• Use a heating pad or take an over-the-counter pain medication

What Causes Stomach Pain at Night?

In addition to the causes of morning stomach pain, there are a few other potential reasons you may experience abdominal discomfort at night:

Nighttime Acid Reflux

Acid reflux can be worse at night when you’re lying down, as gravity is no longer helping to keep stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.

Gallbladder Issues

Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation can cause pain that’s often worse at night or after eating a heavy meal.

Intestinal Obstruction

A blockage or obstruction in the intestines can lead to painful cramping, particularly at night.

How the RISE App Can Help

The RISE app can help you optimize your sleep and circadian rhythm, which can in turn improve gastrointestinal issues like IBS that can cause morning stomach pain. RISE tracks your sleep patterns, provides personalized recommendations for better sleep hygiene, and helps you stay in sync with your body’s natural 24-hour clock.

In Conclusion

Waking up with a stomach ache can be an unpleasant way to start the day. But understanding the common causes, from indigestion to IBS, and taking steps to address the underlying issue can help provide relief. Trying home remedies, making lifestyle changes, and seeing a doctor if the pain persists are all important steps. By optimizing your sleep and managing your overall health, you can reduce your risk of recurring morning stomach pain.