3. Signs of infection
Infections in the digestive tract can cause stomach pain that varies in intensity and location. Common infectious causes include gastroenteritis, diverticulitis, or infections from Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Symptoms suggesting infection include persistent fever, chills, diarrhea sometimes with blood, and worsening abdominal tenderness. These signs indicate the body is mounting an immune response to harmful pathogens.
Left untreated, some infections may progress to abscess formation or systemic illness. Your healthcare provider may recommend stool cultures, blood tests, or imaging to identify the source of infection and guide antibiotic treatment.
4. Digestive disorders
Chronic digestive disorders can present with recurring stomach pain that requires specialized management. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and peptic ulcer disease are common culprits.
IBS typically causes cramping pain associated with changes in bowel habits but does not damage the bowel lining. Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis cause inflammation visible on colonoscopy and may lead to severe complications.
Peptic ulcers result from erosion of the stomach or duodenal lining, often linked to Helicobacter pylori infection or chronic NSAID use. Symptoms include burning upper abdominal pain, especially when the stomach is empty.
Diagnosis often involves endoscopy, biopsy, and laboratory tests to determine the precise condition and appropriate therapy.
5. Medication side effects
Certain medications can cause stomach pain as a side effect, sometimes due to irritation or damage to the gastrointestinal tract lining. Common offenders include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and some blood pressure medications.
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can lead to gastritis or peptic ulcers, causing burning pain and occasional bleeding. Antibiotics may disrupt normal gut flora, resulting in diarrhea and cramping.
If you suspect medication is causing stomach pain, do not stop taking it without consulting your prescribing doctor. They may suggest alternatives, dose adjustments, or protective agents like proton pump inhibitors.
