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Belly Pain (Abdominal Pain)
Discomfort or pain in the stomach or abdominal area
Digestive System
Belly Pain (Abdominal Pain)
What it is: Discomfort or pain in your stomach or belly area. It's like having an upset or angry stomach that's trying to tell you something's not right.
Why it happens
- Gas: Air trapped in your digestive system
- Constipation: Hard stools that are difficult to pass
- Food poisoning: Eating contaminated food
- Stress: Emotional stress can affect your stomach
- Overeating: Eating too much at once
- Food intolerances: Your body can't digest certain foods
- Infections: Stomach viruses or bacterial infections
- Medications: Some medicines can upset your stomach
What you feel
- Sharp pain: Sudden, intense pain
- Dull ache: Constant, mild discomfort
- Cramping: Muscle spasms in your belly
- Bloating: Feeling full and swollen
- Nausea: Feeling like you want to throw up
- Changes in bowel habits: Diarrhea or constipation
- Loss of appetite: Not wanting to eat
How to help yourself
- Rest: Give your stomach time to settle
- Apply heat: Use a heating pad or warm water bottle
- Eat bland foods: Rice, bananas, toast, applesauce
- Drink water: Stay hydrated, but sip slowly
- Avoid trigger foods: Spicy, fatty, or dairy foods
- Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques
- Eat smaller meals: Don't overeat
When to see a doctor
- Severe pain that doesn't go away
- Pain with fever
- Vomiting blood or black material
- Bloody or black stools
- Pain that wakes you up at night
- Pain that gets worse over time
- Pain with weight loss
Common causes
- Indigestion: Eating too fast or too much
- Gas: Swallowing air or eating gas-producing foods
- Constipation: Not enough fiber or water
- Food poisoning: Contaminated food
- Stomach virus: Viral infection
- Stress: Emotional or mental stress
Prevention tips
- Eat slowly: Chew your food well
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water
- Eat fiber: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Exercise regularly: Helps with digestion
- Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques
- Avoid trigger foods: Foods that upset your stomach
Remember: Most belly pain is not serious and goes away on its own. If pain is severe or persistent, it's important to see a doctor.