Listen to Your Gut: 5 Causes of Stomach Pain
Stomach pain is common, but understanding its cause is not always simple. “Our digestive systems can be quite sensitive, reacting to various stimuli in unexpected ways,” explains PIH Health Physician Preeya Goyal MD.
Stomach pain brings symptoms that vary in intensity and duration. Pain can occur in the lower, upper, center or sides of the abdomen, accompanied by sensations like burning, aching, or cramping. Individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, bloating, heartburn, gas, constipation, or diarrhea.
Causes of stomach pain can feel like a mystery, so it is important to pay attention to the frequency of pain and discomfort.
Here are common reasons why your stomach may hurt:
Indigestion: Overeating or consuming food too quickly, as well as ingesting foods that may not agree with you, such as spicy, fatty, greasy, or ultra-processed foods, can lead to indigestion.
Food poisoning: Consumption of contaminated food can result in minor discomfort to severe symptoms. Keep an eye on food expiration dates and take part in clean food preparation.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – A common chronic condition that may cause abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation. Many people can control their symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes, though medication may be necessary in some cases.
Anxiety – Gastrointestinal issues can be caused by nervousness and anxiety. You may feel stomach discomfort before significant events like a major presentation or an unfamiliar environment.
Viruses – Viral infections like the stomach flu can induce stomach problems, along with other symptoms such as fever, body aches, and respiratory issues. If symptoms worsen, speak with your doctor.
To learn more about digestive health services at PIH Health, please visit PIHHealth.org/Digestive
Preeya Goyal MD
Preeya Goyal MD is a fellowship-trained gastroenterologist with expertise in esophageal and anorectal motility, which focuses on how things move through the gastrointestinal tract. Dr. Goyal was attracted to gastroenterology very early in her medical training. She is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association and American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Goyal was born and raised in California and is very happy to have the opportunity to stay close to her large family. She enjoys traveling, tennis, dancing, painting, trying new restaurants and spending time with friends and family in her free time.
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