Your abdomen houses more than just your stomach. It includes other vital organs like your intestines, pancreas, and gallbladder.
Because of this complexity, persistent or chronic stomach pain shouldn’t be brushed aside as a minor issue. Finding out where your discomfort comes from and why it hurts can lead to better treatment and lasting relief.
People often say ‘stomach pain’ to describe any discomfort around the midsection. While pain can certainly be from the stomach, it is essential to know that pain in the stomach area can come from other parts, too, including the:
Because so many organs share the same general space, a wide range of conditions can present similar symptoms.
Chronic stomach pain can stem from a variety of conditions. They can range from digestive issues to inflammatory diseases.
Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, often causes:
It can be triggered by overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming rich, high-fat, or spicy foods.
GERD, or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus. This can cause persistent heartburn, upper abdominal discomfort, or even chest pain. With GERD, symptoms often worsen after meals or when lying down.
Peptic ulcers are sores in the stomach or small intestine lining. The pain is often described as a gnawing or burning sensation that worsens on an empty stomach. Peptic ulcers are typically caused by:
Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, can cause similar discomfort. It is also often linked to H. pylori, frequent NSAID use, or heavy alcohol consumption.
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that causes:
Symptoms can vary over time and are often triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.
IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, involves chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Unlike IBS, IBD can cause persistent pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. It can also cause complications that require medical treatment.
Gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or cholecystitis, typically cause:
Gallstones form when substances in bile crystallize. The stones can sometimes lead to blockages that trigger severe discomfort.
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, is often linked to:
It usually causes severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
Chronic constipation may lead to:
A low-fiber diet, dehydration, and certain medications can contribute to these issues.
Diverticulitis, an infection or inflammation of small pouches in the colon called diverticula, often presents with:
Food intolerances and allergies can cause ongoing digestive issues. Examples include lactose intolerance and gluten sensitivity. Symptoms may include bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. An elimination diet or specific testing may help identify triggers.
In women, endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can lead to:
You can manage some causes of chronic stomach pain with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter treatments. But, persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a doctor. The following symptoms should prompt a medical evaluation:
If you are experiencing chronic stomach pain, do not ignore it. Our gastroenterology team will help find the cause and guide you to relief.
Don’t continue to live with chronic stomach pain – schedule an appointment today!
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