A stomachache, or abdominal pain, can have many causes. Stomach pain could be caused by gas trapped in the intestine, indigestion, or a stomach virus, or it could be a symptom of a more serious health problem.
Common causes of stomachache include:
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Stomach flu
- Food poisoning
- Food allergy
- Stress and anxiety
- Lactose intolerance
- Constipation
- Menstruation
- Muscle strain
Treatment for Stomachache
Gas pains can often be relieved by lying on your stomach. If you have indigestion, try swallowing your saliva or use an over-the-counter antacid. Menstrual cramps can be eased by placing a heating pad or hot water bottle over the abdomen, or taking a hot bath.
A stomach virus typically runs its course in 12 to 48 hours. Rest and drink small quantities ( 1 to 2 oz) of clear liquids until you start to feel better. Avoid milk, juice, coffee, sports drinks and carbonated sodas. (Try flat ginger ale or Coke.) Introduce solid food gradually, starting with mild foods like bananas, rice, and toast.
See a doctor if your stomach pain lasts more than a few hours or keeps coming back.
Treatment for stomachache is available at Urgent Family Care in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The doctor will evaluate you to find the cause of your abdominal pain. You could be suffering from a condition that requires medical treatment, such as:
- Gastritis (irritation of the stomach lining)
- Hernia
- Urinary tract infection
- Ulcers
- Appendicitis
- Diverticulitis
- Kidney stones
- Heart attack
Child With a Stomachache
It is sometimes difficult to know whether a child with a tummy ache is just suffering from anxiety or has a serious medical problem. The child might not be able to tell you exactly what is wrong. If your child looks pale and listless, refuses to eat or drink or play, or seems to be in extreme discomfort, bring them to Urgent Family Care in Knoxville, Tennessee. Fever often accompanies a stomach virus, but it could be a symptom of something else. Diarrhea occurring for more than a few hours could cause dehydration.
See a Doctor Immediately If:
- Abdominal pain is so acute the person cannot walk or move.
- A stomachache is accompanied by vomiting blood or blood in the stool.
- A stomachache is accompanied by a high fever.
- An elderly person or a very young child has abdominal pain.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this page is not intended to replace the advice of a physician. It is information that is generally available. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.