Is your stomach aching due to indigestion or is it something more serious? Understanding the exact type of stomach pain, its location, and sensation, can help identify the true cause (Image: Pexels)
As children most of us would clutch our bellies to avoid going to school, but stomach pain isn’t just an excuse. As we grow older, it can come from poor eating habits, stress, menstrual cramps, or more serious underlying issues. That’s why it’s important to pay attention and not to dismiss it. Knowing the exact spot of the pain and any other symptoms can make all the difference in finding out the actual cause.
According to the National Institutes of Health, abdominal pain is a key symptom of acute abdominal issues, crucial for diagnosis. A complete understanding of its pathogenesis and transmission pathways is essential for accurate evaluation, allowing doctors to identify the source 80-90 percent of the time based on history alone.
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Here are 10 different types of stomach pains based on their symptoms, location and sensations:
Also read | Frequent bloating, stomach pain and other warning signs your digestive system is suffering
Symptoms of stomach pain: If the pain is below the belly button, it is commonly linked to constipation, UTIs, or gynaecological issues like period cramps or cysts (Image: Pexels)
This pain comes on suddenly and may feel sharp or stabbing. It often lasts just a few hours or days, and can be caused by food poisoning, indigestion, or infections like gastroenteritis. Try resting, sipping water and eating bland foods. Consult a doctor if the pain worsens or spreads.
The chronic abdominal pain sticks around for three months or more. It may not be constant, but it comes back regularly and can interfere with your daily life. Causes of this pain include IBS, ulcers or endometriosis. Managing stress, keeping a symptom diary, and eating home, cooked food, low fat meals can help ease the discomfort.
This type of pain gets worse with time. It is often linked to serious conditions like gallbladder disease, tumours, or long-term inflammation. You may also notice weight loss, fatigue, or nausea. Do not ignore this kind of pain. Make sure you get yourself checked immediately by a GP.
Also read | Stomach pain after eating? It could be because of indigestion or your blood pressure medicine
The intermittent abdominal pain comes and goes without warning. You are fine one moment, but the next moment the pain doubles, this kind of pain is often linked to gas, gallstones, or menstrual cramps. Warm compress, herbal teas like the chamomile tea, and light stretches can offer relief when these sudden bouts of pain show up.
The pain in the upper abdomen, specially under the ribs, could mean acid reflux, stomach ulcers, or even gallstones. Such pain makes you feel bloated. You can also get heartburn after meals. Avoid spicy food. Do not lie down right after eating and consider antacids If reflux is a regular issue.
The pain below the belly button is commonly linked to constipation, UTIs, or gynaecological issues like period cramps or cysts. Drinking more water, using a hot water bottle, or gently walking, can all help. However, if the pain is sharp or doesn’t go away easily, get yourself checked to rule out any infections.
The left side abdominal pain is often due to constipation or diverticulitis, specially in older adults. You may feel a dull ache ot cramping that worsens after eating food. It is important to increase fibre intake, drink more fluids, and avoid heavily processed foods, as these can slow digestion and irritate your gut.
The pain in the right side can be serious, specially if it’s in the lower right. This is a common sign of appendicitis. If it’s upper right, it can be gallstones. Any sharp, continuous pain here, is a sign that you should consult your doctor.
The uneasy puffy feeling is often caused by trapped gas or slow digestion. It may follow a heavy meal, fizzy drink or eating too quickly. Try smaller meals, avoiding carbonated drinks, and going for a slow walk, after meals to get things moving and to ease the pressure.
The cramping pain often comes with diarrhoea, period pain, or stress related gut trouble like IBS. It feels like waves of discomfort in your stomach. Try drinking peppermint tea, taking a warm or practicing relaxation techniques like breathing. These can help settle your stomach, as well as your nerves.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
