Possible Causes Of Upset Stomach Every Morning
1. Morning Sickness
For women in the early stages of pregnancy, upset stomachs can strike any time during the day, but the stomach issues usually occur first thing in the morning. The morning sickness typically doesnt pose any risk to the pregnancy, and although the nausea is annoying and uncomfortable, the most common symptom is vomiting. The good news is that after the first trimester, the symptoms usually pass. Discuss with your health care provider the severity and frequency of the symptoms to make sure you do not develop other complications or become anemic.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS is a chronic disorder that causes food to move too quickly through the digestive track. Normally, IBS doesnt create any lasting damage in your colon however, it can cause early morning stomach issues and diarrhea. Any change in routines or added stress can cause IBS symptoms to appear more frequently. Restless sleep has also been known to aggravate IBS symptoms first thing in the morning. Other symptoms may include abdominal cramps, gas, bloating, and watery diarrhea. Thankfully, a high fiber diet and a relaxing period before bedtime can help prevent these issues.
3. Gastritis
8. Dehydration
Too Much Sugarless Gum
If you consume too much sorbitol, which is found in some sugar-free products, it can cause pain and diarrhea. According to a 2008 article in BMJ, a 21-year-old woman had an 11-pound weight loss, abdominal pain, and diarrhea from chewing about 16 sticks of gum a day.
A 46-year-old man had similar symptoms after chewing about 20 sticks of sugarless gum and eating sorbitol-containing sweets daily. “Sorbitol goes into your GI tract and since your body can’t absorb it, it gets to the bacteria in your colon, which eat it and produce gas and fluids that contribute to diarrhea,” explains Dr. Raymond.
To fix the problem, cut back on the amount of sugarless gum you chew.
Sudden Intense Abdominal Pain
A sharp pain that doesn’t let up can indicate acute appendicitis , diverticulitis or a serious infection. The context is important, Lee says, because muscle cramps and other issues can also manifest as sharp pain. If you’re an athlete rock climbing and you get a sharp pain in your abdomen that only lasts a second, you probably just pulled a muscle, she says. If it’s something serious, she explains, usually the pain keeps escalating and doesn’t let up.
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What Are The Potential Complications Of Abdominal Pain
Complications of abdominal pain depend on the underlying cause, but can range from missed school or work to malnutrition to life-threatening infections. Getting an accurate diagnosis and following your treatment plan will help you avoid complications. Over time, abdominal pain can lead to serious complications including:
- due to blood loss
- Dehydration due to loss of fluids
How Is The Cause Of Abdominal Pain Diagnosed
Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms seen by GPs .
They may suggest you have some blood tests or other diagnostic procedures done, especially if you have had the symptoms for some time.
Tests and procedures that may help in diagnosing the cause of abdominal pain include:
Other procedures that may be suggested, depending on your gender, include:
- pregnancy test and/or pelvic ultrasound
- ultrasound of the scrotum
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When Should You Be Concerned
Stomach cramps and diarrhea can be mild, fleeting and require no treatment.
However, if theyre accompanied by one of the following symptoms, its important to seek medical attention:
- Significant weight loss
- Diarrhea that persists for more than two days
- High fever or chronic low-grade fever
- Chest, neck, jaw or arm pain
- Racing heartbeat
- Black, tarry stools
- Signs of dehydration
Summary: When stomach pain or diarrhea is accompanied by signs of dehydration, significant weight loss or other serious medical conditions, its important to seek medical attention.
Upper Abdominal Pain Between The Ribcage
If you develop an aching or stabbing pain or pressure in the upper abdominal area just under the ribs, this may indicate a heart-related problem. Physicians say this pain is often accompanied by shortness of breath and is concerning if the pain persists. People often assume this type of pain is indigestion, and while that may be the case, anyone with risk factors such as diabetes or hypertension should see a doctor as soon as possible.
If you do struggle with acid reflux, it may be time to talk to a gastroenterologist. They can help you manage your symptoms through medications, lifestyle changes and diet.
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Why Does My Stomach Hurt
There are numerous reasons for abdominal pain. It may be related to digestion, injury, infection or disease. It may come from an organ inside, or from the muscles or skin in your abdominal wall. Or it may have spread from somewhere else nearby.
Your healthcare provider will ask you detailed questions about your pain to determine the cause. How bad it feels doesnt necessarily indicate how serious it is. Some common, transient conditions can be intense, and some life-threatening conditions may feel mild.
Counseling And Stress Relief
Many people who seek care for IBS also have anxiety, panic, or depression. Stress is also an issue for people with IBS because it can make the symptoms worse. Research shows that psychological therapy can help ease IBS symptoms. Therapies that can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy , a short-term treatment that mixes different types of therapies and behavioral strategies. The type of CBT used to treat IBS may focus on managing life stress. Or, it may focus on changing how a person responds to anxiety about IBS symptoms.
- Dynamic psychotherapy, an intensive, short-term form of talk therapy. It may focus on in-depth discussions about the link between symptoms and emotions. The therapy may also help people identify and resolve interpersonal conflicts.
- Hypnotherapy, where people enter an altered state of consciousness. Visual suggestions are made to imagine pain going away, for example.
General stress relief is also important. Exercising regularly is a good way to relieve stress. It also helps the bowel function better and improves overall health. Meditation, yoga, and massage may also help.
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Urgent Advice: Speak To Your Gp As Soon As Possible If:
- you have severe abdominal pain, especially if it’s concentrated in one area
- the pain starts suddenly or unexpectedly
If your GP is closed, phone 111.
Serious causes of sudden severe abdominal pain include:
- appendicitis the swelling of the appendix means your appendix will need to be removed
- a bleeding or perforated stomach ulcer
- acute cholecystitis inflammation of the gallbladder, which may need to be removed
- kidney stones small stones may be passed out in your urine, but larger stones may block the kidney tubes, and you’ll need to go to hospital to have them broken up
- diverticulitis inflammation of the small pouches in the bowel that sometimes requires treatment with antibiotics in hospital
If your GP suspects you have one of these conditions, they may refer you to hospital immediately.
Sudden and severe pain in your abdomen can also sometimes be caused by an infection of the stomach and bowel . It may also be caused by a pulled muscle in your abdomen or by an injury.
What Is Abdominal Pain Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment And Prevention
Most people experience abdominal discomfort or pain at some point in their lives. Abdominal pain is usually felt in the part of the trunk below the ribs, above the pelvis and the groin. It can range in intensity from a mild ache to severe, disabling pain.
While abdominal pain isnt normal, it isnt necessarily serious, and it often resolves itself.
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How To Treat Stomach Pain Cramping And Diarrhea
There are many effective home remedies to help effectively treat the symptoms of stomach aches and pain that are accompanied by diarrhea.
The best kind of natural ingredients to use if you have stomach pain and diarrhea are ones that help reduce stomach spasms and soothe irritation. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Chamomile. Research has shown that chamomile contains anti-spasmodic properties and can help to relieve stomach pain. The benefits of chamomile also help reduce the frequency of loose stool and improve symptoms of digestive upset.27
Chamomile tea and ginger tea are just 2 herbal teas that can help improve your digestion.
When you feel that your symptoms of an upset stomach and loose stools are getting better, you should switch to a bland diet. This contains foods that are low in fiber and donât place a burden on your digestion.
At the same, you should avoid fatty or spicy foods to prevent burning bowel movements and irritation of the extra-sensitive lining of your digestive system.
For more information, please check out my article on how to naturally get rid of diarrhea based on science.
Abdominal Pain And Diarrhea Caused By Medications
There could also be a chance that any painful stomach cramps and diarrhea that you experience could be the side effects of medication.
Here are some common medications that are known to cause abdominal pain with diarrhea:
Antibiotics. Mayo Clinic staff say that taking a course of antibiotics can cause watery, loose stools as well as lower abdominal pain. The stomach pain and diarrhea could start about a week after taking antibiotics.19
NSAIDs. The long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs has the side effect of stomach pain and loose stools. In some cases, the side effects of NSAIDs also include bloating, heartburn, nausea, or constipation.20
Laxatives. The overuse of laxatives for constipation can make you have constant diarrhea with stomach pain. A review published in 2016 found that some types of laxatives cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.21
Chemotherapy. Cancer treatment involving chemotherapy can cause unpleasant side effects like persistent diarrhea. The journal Frontiers in Pharmacology reports that stomach pain is also a common side effect of chemotherapy.22
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When Should I See My Healthcare Provider About My Abdominal Pain
Always see your doctor if your pain is unexplained, persistent or severe, or if you have been injured or are pregnant.
Also, see your doctor if your pain is accompanied by any of these symptoms:
- Persistent fever.
- Blood in your stools, urine or vomit.
- Swelling and tenderness to the touch.
- Pain in any other part of your body.
- Shortness of breath or symptoms that get worse with exertion.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
So many things can cause abdominal pain that its inevitable well all experience it from time to time. Common causes, such as gas and indigestion, menstrual cramps, or even food poisoning and the flu may be instantly recognizable. Other causes may be more mysterious. And sometimes stomach pain is a sign of an unsuspected or serious condition.
Your healthcare provider will always be interested in your abdominal pain, especially if its unexplained. Common causes are often easy to treat, and having your condition diagnosed can help you find relief. Even if your stomach pain is mild, make sure you see your healthcare provider if it doesnt go away, keeps coming back or gets worse.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/18/2022.
References
Causes Of Stomach Pain Based On Location
- Upper right: Gallstones, cholecystitis, stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, hepatitis.
- Upper center: Heartburn/indigestion, hiatal hernia, epigastric hernia, stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, hepatitis.
- Upper left: Functional dyspepsia, stomach ulcer, gastritis, pancreatitis.
- Middle right: Kidney stones, kidney infection, inflammatory bowel disease , constipation.
- Middle center: Umbilical hernia, appendicitis, stomach ulcer, IBD, pancreatitis.
- Middle left: Kidney stones, kidney infection, IBD, constipation.
- Lower right: Appendicitis, IBD, constipation, pelvic pain.
- Lower center: Bladder infection, prostatitis, IBD, inguinal hernia, pelvic pain.
- Lower left: Constipation, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, IBD, pelvic pain, inguinal hernia.
When to Seek Medical Help
According to Dr. Kingsley, you should call your primary care physician if mild pain lasts more than a couple of days, or if the severe stomach pain is accompanied by other symptoms.
When to seek immediate medical attention
Get medical help immediately if:
- You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden.
- You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder.
- Youre vomiting blood, have bloody diarrhea, or have black, tarry stools .
- You have a high fever.
- Youre having difficulty breathing.
- You develop consistent nausea and/or vomiting.
- Your abdomen is stiff, hard, and tender to the touch.
- You cant move your bowels, especially if youre also vomiting.
When to make an appointment to see your doctor
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Transmission Of Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease spread by skin-to-skin contact. The risk of infection is highest during outbreak periods when there are visible sores and lesions. However, genital herpes can also be transmitted when there are no visible symptoms. Most new cases of genital herpes infection do not cause symptoms, and many people infected with HSV-2 are unaware that they have genital herpes.
To help prevent genital herpes transmission:
- Use a condom for sexual intercourse.
- Use a dental dam for oral sex.
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Be aware that nonoxynol-9, the chemical spermicide used in gel and foam contraceptive products and some lubricated condoms, does not protect against STDs.
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When To Go To The Er With Stomach Pain
You should seek immediate medical attention or go to the ER if you have:
- Constant or severe abdominal pain
- Pain associated with a high fever
- Changes in pain intensity or location, such as going from a dull ache to a sharp stab or starting in one area and radiating to another
- Pain accompanied by other serious or unusual symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or change in behavior
- Pain localized to one particular area
- Right lower quadrant could indicate appendicitis
- Right upper quadrant could indicate cholecystitis or a gallbladder infection
- Left lower quadrant could indicate diverticulitis or a colon infection
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Which Medicines Can Cause Abdominal
Some medicines can cause abdominal pain as a side effect. Common examples include:
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , such as ibuprofen and
If you, or someone you are caring for, has an episode of abdominal pain that you think may be related to a medicine, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. There may be an alternative medicine that is better for you.
Symptoms Suggesting Celiac Disease:
- The usual age of onset is between 20-30 years of age. But it can occur in older ages up to 70 years.
- Abdominal pain and bloating.
- Easy fatigue and iron deficiency anemia.
- Itchy, blistery skin.
- Osteoporosis and osteomalacia .
Celiac disease is diagnosed by a blood test or by taking a biopsy from the small intestine.
Call your doctor if you suspect celiac disease. Learn more.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Diarrhea
Each persons symptoms may vary. Symptoms of diarrhea may include:
- Fast heart rate
- Sunken fontanelle on baby’s head
Diarrhea symptoms may look like other health problems. Bloody diarrhea is always a concern. Always see your doctor to be sure. Be sure to tell the doctor about any bleeding, fever, or vomiting.
What Can Be The Underlying Causes Of Constant Stomach Pain In Adults
Often the cause of the persistent stomach pain is not much serious and proper lifestyle change can be beneficial. Some of the causes involve-
Irritable Bowel Syndrome This is the most common condition and often the prime reason of constant stomach pain experienced by people. Feelings of bloating accompanied by constipation or diarrhea are seen to be often associated. Such type of stomach pain usually goes away when the bowel movements get clear.
Urinary Tract Infection In case of inadequate consumption of water and liquids essential for proper flushing of toxins from the body, urinary tract infection can occur. They keep returning in case proper hygiene is not maintained. An individual with UTI can have recurrent and constant pain in the abdomen due to this accompanied by burning sensation while urinating.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition where the digestive system undergoes inflammation while the person is left with a persistent/ constant stomach pain. Such a condition leads to soreness of the intestine and the rectum.
Menstrual Cramps Women undergoing menstruation can have severe muscular pain in the lower abdomen. Such pain is persistent and stays on for two to three days.
Constipation Sometimes, due to irregular food habits and unhealthy lifestyle, there can be constant stomach pain due to difficulty experienced in bowel movements. Stool hardens due to lack of hydration which can lead to the persistent stomach pain.
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What Causes Mild To Moderate Abdominal Pain
Most Australians will experience mild or moderate abdominal pain from time to time. Often these episodes last only a few hours or days. They may clear up without the need for treatment. However, you may be more comfortable managing the symptoms with medicines from your pharmacy or doctor.
Some of the causes of short-term abdominal pain are:
When In Doubt About Your Abdominal Pain Physicians Say Its Best To Call Your Doctor Or Head To The Er
The egg salad didn’t taste quite right, but you were hungry. Or maybe your craving for cheesecake outweighed the punishment you knew your lactose intolerance would inflict. You expect stomach distress in situations like these, but other times, abdominal pain can come out of nowhere. Sometimes it’s severe enough or lasts for so long that you know it’s not simply a matter of eating something that didn’t agree with you.
Digestive system issues account for 45.1 million visits to doctors’ offices and emergency departments yearly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . The severity of the pain, its location within your abdominal area, and accompanying symptoms may provide clues to the origin of the pain and if you should seek help immediately. Here are some of the most common signs your tummy troubles need more than an over-the-counter remedy.
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