What Does Our Body Tell Us When Our Stomach Hurts?

Pain in the stomach? Medically it is known as epigastric pain, that is, the colic that occurs above the navel and below the bust. The specialists do not consider it as something serious, however, millions of people a year go to the doctor for this reason.

To begin with, it is necessary that we learn to know our body and the signals it sends, since there are many causes why we can feel discomfort in the abdomen. Do not forget that the body absorbs everything around it, from the material to the emotional.

So what is the body telling us when our stomach hurts?

Possible causes of stomach pain

Food intolerance

There are foods that after eating them cause discomfort, either immediately or after a couple of hours. For example, lactose or gluten. In these cases, the pain persists for a long time each time these foods are eaten. It is important that the person identifies it to stop consuming it or, in any case, replace it.

Stress or anger

The way our body reacts to different emotions, such  as anger, anger or stress, inevitably causes symptoms of abdominal pain. The nervous and digestive systems are altered, and the body becomes stressed, causing diarrhea and inflammation in the intestine.

According to some research, being under constant stress eases abdominal pain and promotes chronic disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Apparently, excess stress causes a sensitization of pain pathways, influencing these problems.

Junk food abuse

Excess junk food (fats, carbonated drinks or the abuse of spicy) causes pain in the stomach, especially on the left side. The discomfort will continue until the food is digested.  If it takes time to do so, you may have nausea and the urge to vomit.

Indigestion

In medical terms indigestion is known as dyspepsia. This discomfort is located in the middle part of the stomach. The pain can be accompanied by heartburn and gas, and occurs during or after food intake.

It is estimated that between  5 and 11% of the population has indigestion problems due to the abuse of alcoholic beverages, eating in an accelerated way or in excess.

Menstruation

Premenstrual syndrome is the set of physical and hormonal symptoms that alter a woman’s body. It is generally a pain in the lower back, although  a large percentage also suffer from it in the stomach. 

The discomfort can continue until the end of the period. Therefore, it is recommended to keep moving, eat healthy and get enough sleep.

Stomach infection

How to identify an infection? This is caused by parasites, bacteria or viruses found in food. Symptoms depend on the type of bacteria. They can range from a burning sensation to pain, tiredness, poor appetite, and even fever. 

Although there are natural remedies to counteract the disease, it is important to see a doctor if the pain persists. The professional will be the one to determine what type of infection it is and what is the best treatment for it. Care must be taken with self-medication.

Constipation

A busy lifestyle, in which the body is subjected to excess stress, a diet low in fiber and lacking in fluids, can lead to constipation.

The solution is to turn a sedentary life around by  doing physical activity and adding cereals, vegetables and at least 2 liters of water to your diet. If the problem persists the doctor can prescribe laxatives.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

This disease is produced by an alteration in the gastric juices, these return backwards –from the stomach to the esophagus–, and cause  burning and stabbing pains in the stomach and throat. 

How to treat it?

In mild cases, only a change in diet is required. Greasy food, chocolates, spicy foods, and coffee should be avoided, in addition to having a light dinner and consuming high amounts of fiber.

Effects by medication

It is very important to read the side effects after taking any medication, since many of them cause abdominal pain. Its compounds can alter the esophagus and cause inflammation.

• Excessive acid in the digestive tract wears down the inner wall of the stomach, causing pain, and there are even cases where high doses cause stomach ulcers.

Therefore, it is essential that you pay attention to the alerts of your body. The causes of stomach pain can be myriad, ranging from simple temporary discomfort to severe ulcers.

Note : There are diseases that can be cured with natural remedies or antibiotics and others that need surgical intervention. If you feel unusual pain, do not hesitate and go to the doctor.