It’s common to have a stomach ache once in a while. You might have eaten something that didn’t agree with you. It could have been stress.
But what if the ache keeps coming back?
You should never dismiss chronic stomach pain, which is agony that lasts for weeks or months. It doesn’t always signify something bad, but it does mean your body needs some care.
Here are 10 reasons why you can have stomach ache that won’t go away and what they could indicate.
1. Gastritis
Gastritis is when the lining of the stomach gets inflamed.
It can happen because of:
- Too much spicy food
- Drinks
- Taking too many painkillers
- Infection, such as H. pylori bacteria
Some of the symptoms are nausea, bloating, and burning sensation in the upper abdomen.
2. Acid Reflux (GERD)
When stomach acid rushes back into the food pipe, this is called acid reflux.
Signs that are common:
- Pain in the chest that feels like burning
- Taste that is sour in mouth
- Pain in the upper stomach
If not addressed, it can become long-lasting and bothersome.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a problem with how the digestive system works.
It makes:
- Cramps
- Bloating
- Having trouble going to the bathroom or having too many bowel movements
- Relief after having a bowel movement
Stress can make IBS worse. It doesn’t hurt the intestines, but it can have a big impact on quality of life.
4. Ulcers in the stomach
An ulcer is a lesion that is open on the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
They might make:
- Stomach ache that is sharp or scorching
- Pain that becomes worse when you don't eat
- Feeling sick
To avoid problems, ulcers need medical care.
5. Stones in the gallbladder
Gallstones grow in the gallbladder and can stop bile from flowing.
Pain usually:
- Happens in the upper right part of the stomach
- Shows up after eating fatty foods
- Spreads to the shoulder or back
Gallstone pain can be really bad and happen again and again.
6. Pancreatitis
If the pancreas gets inflamed, it can hurt a lot in the upper abdomen.
Some of the signs are:
- Pain that moves to the back
- Feeling sick and throwing up
- Fever
You need to see a doctor right away if you have pancreatitis.
7. Not being able to eat certain foods
Some people find it hard to digest some foods.
Common triggers include:
- Lactose (dairy products)
- Gluten
- Foods that are spicy or greasy
Chronic pain with certain meals may signify intolerance.
8. Not being able to go to the bathroom
Chronic constipation can produce pain in the lower abdomen that doesn’t go away, even when it seems easy.
Stools that are hard and bowel movements that are not regular cause pressure and bloating.
A lot of the time, eating more fiber, drinking more fluids, and being more active helps.
9. Endometriosis (in Women)
Endometriosis may be the cause of chronic pelvic or stomach pain in women.
Pain a lot:
- Gets worse during periods
- Feels deep and like a cramp
- Lasts longer than a menstrual cycle
It is important to have a proper gynecological exam.
10. Stress and worry
The brain and intestines are quite near to each other.
Chronic stress can cause:
- Tension in the muscles of the abdomen
- Changed digestion
- More acid is made
Emotional wellness has a bigger effect on physical symptoms than we think.
When Should You Go to the Doctor?
If you have stomach pain along with any of the following, see a doctor:
- Weight reduction that can't be explained
- Throwing up blood
- Stools that are black
- Fever that won't go away
- A lot of pain
- Having trouble swallowing
These could be signs of significant problems that need immediate attention.
Don't ignore pain that won't go away
It’s normal to feel uncomfortable from time to time. But pain that lasts for weeks has to be looked at properly.
Most of the time, chronic stomach pain doesn’t happen for no reason. It typically has a reason for happening, and finding that reason early makes treatment easier.
Every day, your digestive system operates without making a sound. Listen when it starts to send signals.
Because early diagnosis means a faster recovery and less stress.
