Ever felt that familiar twinge, cramp, or ache in your belly and wondered, “Why does my stomach hurt?” You’re not alone! Stomach pain is super common, and most of the time, it’s nothing serious.
Often, it’s just gas and bloating! When we eat, our bodies produce gas, and sometimes, certain foods like beans or fizzy drinks can create more of it, leading to uncomfortable pressure and cramps.
Another frequent culprit is indigestion or acid reflux. Eating too much, too fast, or consuming spicy and greasy foods can upset your stomach, causing a burning feeling, fullness, or nausea.
Sometimes, changes in your bowel habits like constipation or diarrhea can be the cause. Things like a stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, or even food poisoning, can lead to cramps, vomiting, and loose stools.
Believe it or not, stress can also play a big role! Your gut and brain are closely connected, so when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, your stomach can react with discomfort or aches.
For women, menstrual cramps are a very common reason for lower abdominal pain, often described as a tightening or squeezing sensation.
While most stomach aches are mild, there are times you should definitely see a doctor. If your pain is sudden and severe, or gets much worse quickly, it could be a sign of something more serious.
Also, seek medical attention if your stomach pain is accompanied by a high fever, vomiting blood, bloody stools, or if your abdomen feels unusually hard or tender to the touch.
The bottom line: listen to your body. Most stomach pain will pass on its own, but if you’re concerned, or if the pain is severe, persistent, or comes with other worrying symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. They can help figure out what’s going on and get you the right treatment.