Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Why Is My Stomach Hurting And Burning

When To Seek Medical Advice

Why is my stomach burning?

Visit your GP if you experience persistent symptoms of a stomach ulcer.

Contact your GP or NHS 111 immediately, or go to your nearest accident and emergency department, if you develop signs of a serious complication.

These include:

  • vomiting blood the blood can appear bright red or have a dark brown, grainy appearance, similar to coffee grounds
  • passing dark, sticky, tar-like stools
  • a sudden, sharp pain in your tummy that gets steadily worse

If you’re not sure that you have a stomach ulcer, see other causes of stomach pain.

Page last reviewed: 17 September 2018 Next review due: 17 September 2021

What Causes Abdominal Pain In Children

Common causes of abdominal pain in children include:

  • gastroenteritis
  • trapped wind
  • lower urinary tract problems, such as cystitis

Most abdominal pain is mild and will go away without treatment after a few days. However, your child should see a doctor if the pain is severe or doesnt go away, especially when they also have other symptoms, such as a fever. In this case, you should ensure they are monitored closely and they may need further medical assessment.

Stomach Burning After Drinking Alcohol

Like food, drinking alcohol can cause a burning sensation in the stomach, too. Burning sensation after alcohol is often a result of binge drinking. Chronic alcohol consumption can change the structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract, causing a stomach ache after drinking alcohol.

Alcohol causes a burning stomach because the chemicals in alcohol are rapidly metabolized in the body. When this occurs, a reactive oxygen species cause oxidative stress to the cells and tissues along the gastrointestinal tract.

Possible causes of stomach pain after drinking alcohol include:

  • Binge drinking
  • Shrinking of the gastric lining due to alcoholism
  • Chronic alcohol consumption
  • Inflammation of the pancreas due to alcohol consumption
  • Gallbladder disease triggered by the alcohol
  • Liver damage resulting from alcohol consumption

Also Check: What Causes Stomach Bloating In The Morning

When To Make An Appointment To See Your Doctor

Schedule an appointment to see your doctor if:

  • Your stomach pain doesnt go away within a couple of days.
  • The pain comes back after going away.
  • Symptoms like diarrhea dont go away within a couple of days.
  • Youre urinating more or less often, and/or its painful.
  • You have unintended weight loss.

Know your body, Dr. Kingsley says. If you start having pain that you have not had before and does not go away, you should contact your doctor to be evaluated further.

Bottom line: Trust your gut! Contact your doctor if youre concerned about lingering or unusual stomach pain.

National Health Service, Stomach Ache

National Health Service Inform, Stomach Ache and Abdominal Pain

U.S. National Library of Medicine, Abdominal Pain

Abdomen Burning Pain Feeling Causes And Symptoms

Why Does My Stomach Burn? Causes and Treatments

Posted by Dr. Chris

Abdominal pain is a common symptom and often occurs for no clearly identifiable reason. In most instances the pain quickly subsides and we do not give it any further thought. Isolating the cause of abdominal pain can be difficult when there are no other symptoms to indicate which organ may be the problem. Burning in the abdomen is technically abdominal pain as well. The nature of pain can vary, like burning, stabbing and cramping. While the burning sensation may be indicative of some conditions, it can occur in just about any cause of abdominal pain.

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Signs And Symptoms Of Pain In Upper Stomach

People experiencing pain in the upper stomach may have only one symptom or may have a combination of several symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms of pain in the upper stomach:

Belching

Belching is natural and common. Its your bodys way of getting rid of excess air. Everyone belches from time to time. However, if it interferes with your day-to-day life, it could be a sign of something more serious.

Nausea is an uncomfortable sensation in the stomach that leads to the urge to vomit, but doesnt always cause vomiting. Vomiting happens when you empty your stomach contents through your mouth.

Poor appetite

Most people have a regular desire to eat, but if you lose this desire, or appetite, the reason could be connected to pain in the upper stomach.

An unexplained drop in weight can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Pain in the upper stomach combined with weight loss could be related to disorders that prevent your body from absorbing the nutrients it needs.

Common Causes Of Stomach Pain

Harmless abdominal pain usually subsides or goes away within two hours.

  • Gas: Formed in the stomach and intestines as your body breaks down food, this can cause general stomach pain and cramps. This often can be indicated by belching or flatulence.
  • Bloating: Related to gas, this occurs when excessive gas builds up in your digestive tract. Your stomach will usually feel full, and you may experience cramps.
  • Constipation: This occurs when you are having difficulty making bowel movements. If you are having two or fewer bowel movements a week, constipation is the likely cause. In addition to feeling bloated and nauseous, you may experience cramping and pain in your rectum.
  • Indigestion: You typically experience this as an upset stomach, burning, or belly pain after eating.
  • Stomach flu: Your stomach may hurt before each episode of vomiting or diarrhea.

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There are a number of things you can do on your own to improve the situation, according to Dr. Greg Thorkelson, an assistant professor in the departments of psychiatry and gastroenterology at the University of Pittsburgh.

First, you can make sure you arent eating or drinking right before you lay down to sleep. Also, you might want to cut back on alcohol, caffeine, fatty foods and smoking.

In general, doctors advise:

  • Not eating big meals before bedtime
  • Elevating the head while sleeping
  • And, most importantly, losing weight

Beyond that, Thorkelson said, you should have a more mindful approach to the consumption of food. These days its common to have a mindless way of eating. We eat faster and chew less. Slow the whole process down and the stomach will be able to do its job better, Thorkelson added.

The condition is thought to be caused by a malfunction of the nerves that control intestinal function and perception, said Roth. And it affects about 20 percent of adults in the U.S.

Symptoms include:

  • Cramping

“Often the symptoms are relieved by the passage of stool, said Thorkelson.

A big issue for many who suffer from IBS is stress, Thorkelson said. So anything that soothes the stress, and that includes exercise, mindfulness training, and meditation, may improve symptoms.

Increasing dietary fiber can help with symptoms. But, Thorkelson advised, you may need to work up to it starting with small amounts.

Is Dyspepsia A Serious Condition

Burning Stomach Pain Causes

Most often, medicine can take care of this condition.

Sometimes dyspepsia can be the sign of a serious problemfor example, a deep stomach ulcer.

If you have dyspepsia, talk to your family doctor. This is especially important if any one of the following is true for you:

You’re over 50 years of age

  • You recently lost weight without trying to

  • You have trouble swallowing

  • You have black, tarry bowel movements

  • You can feel a mass in your stomach area

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    Sudden And Severe Onset Stomach Pain

    When mid-abdominal pain occurs suddenly especially in people with a history of peptic ulcer disease or in those who take excessive amounts of aspirin or NSAIDs it may be a sign of a perforation that could require emergency surgery. A tear could leak air and gastric content which can lead to a condition called peritonitis, and eventually, septic shock. Surgery would be required to seal the perforation.

    If You Have Chronic Or Frequent Stomach Pain

    Chronic indigestion, constipation or gas — that happens on a regular, ongoing basis — can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying condition. A few of the most common digestive conditions are listed below — but remember that only a health care professional can diagnose you, so make sure to consult with your provider if you’re concerned.

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    If Your Stomach Hurts Suddenly

    Acute stomach pain comes on quickly and lasts for a limited amount of time, typically a few hours to a few days. It’s usually caused by external factors, like a particular food or contaminant that didn’t agree with your stomach. Even people with completely healthy digestive tracts will experience occasional stomach pain.

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    Severe Stomach Pain After Eating A Fatty Meal

    If you find yourself doubled over after eating a high-fat meal, you may be experiencing a gallbladder attack. “Women are especially prone to gallbladder disease,” says Hardeep Singh, MD, gastroenterologist from St. Joseph Hospital, Orange, CA. “Overweight women in their 40s are at highest risk.” The pain becomes worse after eating, lasts 30 to 60 minutes, and may come and go, becoming more constant and severe over time, says Singh.

    What Are The Complications Of Gastritis

    Chronic gastritis hurts your stomach lining. It can raise your risk for other health problems such as:

    • Peptic ulcer disease, painful sores in your upper digestive tract
    • Gastric polyps, small masses of cells that form on the inside lining of your stomach
    • Stomach tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous

    You may also get atrophic gastritis. This can happen if your gastritis is caused by the H. pylori bacteria or by an autoimmune disorder. Atrophic gastritis destroys the stomach lining cells that make your digestive juices. This raises your risk for getting stomach cancer.

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    Home Remedies For Burning Sensation In Stomach

    Knowing the underlying cause of your burning stomach can help you narrow in on a specific treatment method. In addition to your treatment plan, there are home remedies you can try to further aid with your symptoms and reduce burning sensation in your stomach. Here are some home remedies for burning sensation in stomach you can pair with your current treatment plan for additional relief.

    Giving these home remedies a go can offer you an instant and easy relief from your burning stomach.

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    Gastrointestinal Causes Of Abdominal Pain

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    Abdominal pain may arise from problems in the digestive tract including:

    • : You may experience early signs of appendicitis in the center of the abdomen, but the telltale sign is lower right abdominal pain and fever. Appendicitis is often a medical emergency because an inflamed and infected appendix can rupture and spread the infection.
    • Bowel blockage or obstruction: Marked by stomach pain, and swelling, constipation, , bloating and nausea, a bowel obstruction can lead to intestinal tearing and infection if not treated promptly.
    • Celiac disease: You may experience abdominal bloating and pain, , weight loss, and fatigue. There is no cure for celiac diseasea chronic, immune-mediated condition that causes your body to overreact to gluten and damages the lining of the small intestinebut eliminating gluten from your diet is a must.
    • Colitis: An infection or inflammation of any part of your colon. Colitis is less severe than a form of inflammatory bowel syndromebecause UC is a chronic, lifelong condition. Antibiotics can clear bacterial colitis, and viral colitis will typically clear on its own.
    • : An uncommon, but possible cause of abdominal pain. Symptoms may also include fatigue, blood in stool, a change in bowel habits, bloating, and gas.
    • Gallstones: Upper-right abdominal pain is a classic sign of , especially after eating a meal. Medication may dissolve small gallstones, but is the most common treatment.

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    Home Remedies For Abdominal Pain

    Getting an accurate medical diagnosis is the first and safest step to relieve abdominal pain, because a doctor or other healthcare provider can perform an exam and order tests to rule out serious causes. However, if you have generalized abdominal pain and suspect it is due to minor gastrointestinal issues, consider these home remedies:

    • Baking soda for heartburn
    • Ginger to aid digestion and reduce nausea
    • Heated compress on your belly for cramp-like pain
    • Liquid diet of broth and watered-down, non-caffeinated sports drinks
    • Lying reclined on your left side, which can help you pass gas
    • Modifying your diet to exclude problem foods, such as dairy products, beans, broccoli, and potential allergens
    • Blackstrap molasses for constipation
    • Tylenol for pain or fever

    How Is Indigestion Treated

    Most people find relief from indigestion by making diet changes or taking medication. Your healthcare provider may recommend a combination of both.

    Diet changes include:

    • Avoiding foods or drinks that trigger indigestion.
    • Cutting down on alcohol, caffeine and carbonated drinks.
    • Removing fatty, spicy or acidic foods from your diet.

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    Causes Of Pain In Upper Stomach

    There are several causes of pain in the upper stomach. Some upper stomach pain goes away on its own. For others, pain in the upper stomach may indicate there are underlying issues, such as:

    Heartburn

    When the muscle that normally keeps acid down in the stomach doesnt work properly, it can lead to heartburn . If you experience heartburn a few times a week or if over-the-counter antacids arent working, you may want to call your doctor.

    Inflammation of the stomach

    Sometimes pain in the upper stomach may be caused by gastritis. Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach as a result of a bacterial infection.

    Pancreatitis

    Pancreatitis is inflammation of the large gland behind the stomach , Normally, digestive fluid travels from the pancreas to the small intestine and activates to help digest food. If this fluid activates while its still inside the pancreas, it causes irritation and inflammation.

    Ulcers

    Pain in the upper stomach may be due to ulcers . Different things can cause ulcers, most commonly bacteria or anti-inflammatory drugs that damage the stomachs lining over time. Symptoms of ulcers may include a burning sensation, nausea, vomiting, or heartburn.

    How Is Indigestion Diagnosed

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    A healthcare provider will review your medical history, symptoms and lifestyle. Try to explain your indigestion in as much detail as possible. Note the type of discomfort and where you feel it. Also tell your healthcare provider when you experience indigestion. For example, does it occur after a meal or on an empty stomach? Is it worse in the morning or at night? Do certain foods make it worse?

    Your healthcare provider will do a physical exam. Theyll check your belly for swelling or tenderness. They may use a stethoscope to check your stomach for growling or gurgling.

    Other diagnostic tests may include:

    • Blood tests, to assess your liver, kidney and thyroid function.
    • Breath test, to check for H pylori.
    • Imaging exams, to check for blockages or other problems in the intestines. Imaging exams may include X-ray,CT scan or upper endoscopy.
    • Stool test, to check poop for H. pylori or other bacterial infections.

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    Burning Sensation In Stomach Signs And Symptoms

    Regardless of the cause of your burning stomach sensation, there are some common symptoms to look out for. Signs and symptoms of stomach pain include a burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen or lower chest, bloating, belching, early feeling of fullness when eating, and nausea.The following symptoms indicate there is a very serious cause of your burning sensation and should prompt you to see your doctor immediately. These symptoms include bloody vomit, dark and tarry stool, shortness of breath, and pain that radiates from the jaw, neck, or shoulder.

    Other Causes Of Abdominal Pain

    Abdominal pain can also be caused by problems in body systems other than the digestive tract including:

    • Abdominal trauma: Damage of the organs or blood vessels within the abdomen can result in , even if there is no sign of trauma from the outside. Always seek professional medical care after an accident or injury from blunt force or an explosion to rule out internal damage.
    • Abdominal tumor or mass: Ranging from a simple cyst to cancer, an causing pain and other symptoms requires prompt medical attention to diagnose and treat the problem.
    • : A condition in which the uterine lining grows abnormally outside the uterus. Symptoms include lower back and abdominal pain during and after your period, cramps, , and heavy bleeding. Medication can help relieve endometriosis symptoms surgery is necessary in some cases.
    • Hernia: A painful is one sign of an . A hernia causing problems in the lower abdomen is usually an . A painful hernia may involve surgical repair.
    • : Symptoms vary widely depending on the cause is usually severe and felt in the side of the abdomen and moves into the lower abdomen and groin. Treatment also depends on the cause.
    • Medication side effect: Examples include anti-cancer drugs, , and sodium phosphate.
    • Ovarian cyst: Although they dont often cause symptoms, ovarian cysts symptoms include lower abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, pain with bowel movements, and possible changes in menstruation. See a gynecologist for signs of ovarian cysts.

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