It Can Help To Avoid Friction And Expose Lesions To Air
Rahul, 31, is a gay man living in Luxembourg City. He isnt sure how he got monkeypox. He had only one recent sexual partner, but a few weeks before his symptoms kicked in, he had traveled to Spain and gone to a few crowded parties. Spain was an early hub of the disease and remains second in the world for confirmed positive infections at 5,719. Comparatively, Luxembourgs total is now only 43, and Rahul was one of the countrys first cases.
Rahul wasnt sure what was going on when he started to feel intense rectal pain. He didnt suspect monkeypox at first, and neither did his doctors. They started by misdiagnosing him with hemorrhoids, then anal fissures. In the process, they prescribed him a litany of medications that did little to help. It was not until Rahul went to the emergency room that he was finally able to get diagnosed with monkeypox. Even then, the infectious disease specialist on duty prescribed only an average dose of ibuprofen and this was not your average pain.
People who have gone through surgeries, people who have had automobile accidents, they say this is worse than any of those, Rahul said. I haven’t gone through those experiences, but I can vouch that this is like the worst pain I have ever felt in my entire life.
Unsurprisingly, the ibuprofen did little to ease Rahuls discomfort. He found the greatest relief in lying perfectly still in a particular position.
Medical Conditions Responsible For Stomach Ache
Some types of stomach pain need not be linked to what you eat. They can be caused by conditions that are triggered by when you eat. These include:
Causes Of Pain In Mid
As mentioned, numerous factors can contribute to pain in the middle of the stomach. These causes can range from indigestion, which is relatively easy to deal with, to gallstones and pancreatic disorders, which can require much more treatment and possibly even hospital stays. The following are the more common causes of pain in the mid-abdomen.
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Risk Factors And Prevalence
Gastroparesis is a common complication of diabetes. About 20%50% of people with diabetes will experience diabetic gastroparesis. Gastroparesis is more common in people who have type 1 diabetes and in those who have had type 2 diabetes for more than 10 years.
Having poor control of blood sugar, retinopathy , or neuropathy are risk factors associated with increased rates of diabetic gastroparesis.
Being female, smoking, and having obesity can also raise the risk for gastroparesis.
Severe Acute Pain In The Lower Right Side Of The Abdomen
A sudden pain in the lower part of the abdomen may be a sign of appendicitis. It may also be accompanied by a fever. Pain often begins around the belly button area and becomes worse with time. Vomiting or constipation or diarrhea along with the pain also indicate itâs time to go to the emergency room. Physicians recommend seeing a doctor right away if the pain comes on suddenly over several hours or is persistent. Appendicitis often requires surgery. If left untreated, a ruptured appendix can be deadly.
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The Alcoholic Drinks Most Likely To Cause Bloating Gas And Acid Reflux And What To Sip Instead
- Alcohol can cause gas, bloating, and stomach pain, even if you don’t have a digestive condition.
- Dry red wines, wine spritzers, light lagers, vodka, and gin may have less impact on your stomach.
Hangovers aren’t the only consequence of enjoying a few alcoholic beverages alcohol can also cause some pretty unpleasant stomach symptoms, like gas and indigestion.
These effects can be particularly problematic for people with digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, or Chrohn’s disease.
But alcohol can still cause tummy trouble even if you don’t have a diagnosed gastrointestinal condition, according to Emma Laing, RDN, director of dietetics at the University of Georgia and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Here’s a breakdown of the alcohols that are hardest and easiest on your stomach as well as some tips to enjoy your drink, pain-free.
Abdominal Pain Treatment And Home Remedies
The treatment for abdominal pain depends on its cause, and may include:
- Medications to lower inflammation, prevent acid reflux, or treat ulcers or infection
- Surgery to treat a problem with an organ
Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen can irritate your stomach and worsen your pain. Donât take them unless a doctor has diagnosed the cause of your belly pain and recommends their use.
Some diet and lifestyle changes may help belly pain caused by gas and indigestion. Here are some things you can try:
- Eat smaller portions at more frequent meals
- Eat slowly
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When Do You Start Throwing Up After Eating Food
The onset of food poisoning usually begins 2 to 12 hours after eating the food and involves throwing up with no fever. Common food sources that cause food poisoning are spoiled mayonnaise, chicken, fish, beef, or salad dressing. Some clues that it may be food poisoning are: Often there is vomiting without fever
Yes Cancer Can Cause Your Stomach To Ache After Eating But There Are A Few Things You Need To Know About This Variables To Consider And When To Be Alarmed
A stomach ache after eating is usually not caused by cancer. Usually is the key word here, because it means that there are cases in which this symptom IS being caused by a malignancy.
It is possible, but not very probable, especially early in the course of the cancer, says Mark Levandovsky, MD, Founder and Medical Director of Preventive Medicine and Cancer Care. Dr. Levandovsky is a board certified internist and oncologist/hematologist in practice for 20 years.
The lack of high probability means that if youre experiencing this symptom, there is no need to panic.
But there IS a need to see a doctor.
Dr. Levandovsky explains, Pressure, compression or impingement of nerves/organs would typically be responsible for pain, which happens in more advanced stages.
However, irritation of the mucus lining by abnormal/cancerous cells can cause pain shortly after eating due to acid buildup in the stomach, esophagus or small bowel.
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Food Intolerances And Allergies
Many people confuse food allergies and food intolerances. This is largely because some of the symptomsstomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomitingcan be similar.
Food intolerances are caused by the bodys inability to digest a certain ingredient in food. For example, a lack of the enzyme lactase causes lactose intolerance, or issues with dairy. In this case, consuming smaller portions or a lactose-free product can help prevent abdominal pain.
People with food allergies must avoid certain foods or ingredients entirely because they can set off an abnormal immune response that, in some cases, can be life-threatening. Allergies to eggs, milk, peanuts, shellfish, and wheat are most common.
You may have your suspicions about an intolerance or allergyand you may be rightbut make an appointment with your healthcare provider so they can confirm your hunch.
Not only can a formal diagnosis help you better navigate mealtime so you feel your best, but in the case of allergy, it can get you access to epinephrineemergency treatment you can use in the case of a severe reaction.
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Where Is The Pain
Doctors and other health professionals will first ask you where you feel the pain. Pain above the umbilicus but below the ribcage on the right may be gallstone pain. Gallstone pain may spread to the right shoulder or the back.
Pain from kidney stones is felt in the right side or left side, more in the back than the front of the abdomen, and tends to radiate downwards into the groin on the same side.
Pain in the very centre of the abdomen is more likely to be coming from the intestines, however in males, testicular pain is also felt in the centre of the abdomen.
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Vague Upper Abdominal Pain Associated With Nausea And Belching
Sometimes stomach pain is hard to identify or comes with multiple symptoms. Vague pain in the upper and mid-abdominal area that is linked to nausea, burping, or belching could be signs of a heart attack, particularly in older patients. Physicians say tests like an ECG or cardiac markers can be lifesaving. They also warn that vomiting with back or jaw pain and shortness of breath can also be a sign of a life-threatening emergency.
Stomach Ache After Eating During Pregnancy
Among the numerous minor complications of pregnancy, you may also experience stomach pain after eating. This discomfort may be caused by more than just the type of food you have consumed.
During pregnancy, the digestive process slows down, and there is an increase in the production of stomach acid. This may stimulate gas, bloating, and constipation, all leading to stomach cramping.
Incidences of acid reflux may also occur, causing pain. This happens when the esophageal sphincter loosens, allowing the excess acid to enter the esophagus.
Stomach pain after eating may also be caused by the decreased amount of space in the stomach as the fetus continues to grow.
Each pregnancy is different, and by maintaining a food journal of products that cause pain after eating, you may narrow down the culprit.
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Muscle Pain And Injuries
Muscle overuse, a sedentary lifestyle, and trauma from falling or other injuries can cause pain in the abdominal or back muscles. These injuries can cause pain that comes and goes.
Pain that appears only in certain positions, while lifting, or after exercise could be a sign of a muscle injury.
A muscle injury is not a medical emergency. Most people can treat muscle injuries at home with rest, hot and cold packs, and gentle massage. Ice packs for pain relief are available for purchase online.
If home treatment does not work or the pain is very intense, it is best to see a doctor.
Causes Of Stomach Pain After Eating
There are many conditions that can cause stomach or abdominal pain after eating. Some causes are routine, some are serious, and some are medical emergencies.
Causes of stomach pain include:
Irritable bowel syndrome
As many as 20% of Americans live with some form of IBS. The condition often causes lower stomach pain, especially but not always after a meal. Doctors diagnose IBS based on the reported symptoms and will work with you to find an appropriate diet and treatment regimen for it.
Functional dyspepsia
Also called a nervous stomach, functional dyspepsia causes excess pain, discomfort, and feelings of fullness in people who have only eaten a modest-sized meal. Symptoms can last many hours after eating and are not relieved by using the bathroom, unlike IBS.
Acute pancreatitis
Pain following a meal is one of the primary symptoms of acute pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. Your pancreas produces enzymes needed for digestion. Pancreatitis is a medical emergency, so you should see a doctor to rule out pancreatitis as a cause for your stomach pain.
Other possible causes of stomach pain after eating include:
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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
How Do Doctors Find The Cause Of A Stomachache
To find the cause of a stomachache, doctors ask about:
- your symptoms
- illnesses you’ve had in the past
- health conditions that other family members have
Be honest with your doctor, even if a symptom seems embarrassing.
The doctor will do an exam and sometimes might order tests, such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or blood test. It all depends on what the doctor thinks is causing the problem.
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Complications Of Peptic Ulcers
Sometimes ulcers can erode into blood vessels and cause bleeding, the most severe complication.
This bleeding can manifest when patients pass melenablack, sticky, tarry-appearing stoolsor they might vomit red or coffee ground-appearing contents. This bleeding can be slow or rapid, which can be life-threatening, Dr. Yalamanchili says.
Rarely, an ulcer causes so much inflammation that it creates a hole in the GI tract. This perforation can be life-threatening and require surgical intervention.
When an ulcer forms at the passageway between the stomach and small intestine, it can cause inflammation that blocks food or liquid from passing through into the stomach, called a gastric outlet obstruction.
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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.
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Gastroenteritis And Infectious Colitis
These are the terms for inflammation in the lining of the intestines and colon, respectively. Symptoms will vary based on the location and cause. In both cases, the underlying cause could be due to a condition such as Crohns disease or even something more benign such as a lack of blood flow to the abdominal area, says Dr. Dann. Patients with infectious colitis generally have diarrhea associated abdominal pain, which may be severe.
How to treat it: Depending on the severity of symptoms, antibiotics may be needed.
Drink Plenty Of Fluids And Rest
With stomach pains after eating resulting from food poisoning, rest and drinking plenty of fluids are key treatments. This allows the body to flush out the toxins that have gathered in the gut.
Maintaining hydration with water is important at any time, but it is recommended to wait at least an hour before drinking water after meals if too much food has been consumed in one sitting.
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You May Be Sensitive To Avocado Chemicals
The other possible reason could be certain natural chemicals present in the fruit. Many people can be sensitive to certain chemicals that occur naturally in food items.
Salicylates, glutamates, tyramine, and histamine in avocado are potential culprits. Salicylates are what make you sensitive to aspirin, and tyramines in aged cheese or other fermented food can give you a migraine attack.
Avocado is rich in glutamates and amines like tyramine and histamine whose levels increase with the ripening and softening of the fruit. While some people tolerate these compounds easily, some are sensitive to them. They could experience abdominal pain accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms like stomach upset, gassiness, or flatulence.3 Avocados also contain salicylates, which cause gas, bloating, stomach pain, and even diarrhea.4