What Is Gastric Pain?
Gastric pain, commonly known as stomach pain, is a discomfort or ache in the abdominal region. It can feel like a dull ache, cramps, or a burning sensation and can range from mild to severe in intensity. Gastric pain can be caused by problems with the stomach itself or issues in nearby organs. Understanding the common causes and what it feels like, and when to seek medical help is crucial for managing gastric pain effectively.
What Are the Common Causes of Gastric Pain?
Several factors can lead to gastric pain. Some of the common causes include:
- Gastritis – Inflammation of the stomach lining due to infection, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), or other irritants.
- Peptic Ulcers – Open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine due to the erosion of the protective mucus layer by stomach acid.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – A chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing irritation and a burning sensation.
- Overeating or Eating Spicy/Fatty Foods – Consuming large meals or foods that are spicy, fatty, or greasy can lead to indigestion and gastric discomfort.
- Gallstones – Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause pain when they block the bile duct, leading to referred pain in the upper abdomen.
- Stress – Prolonged stress or anxiety can lead to changes in the digestive system, resulting in gastric pain.
- Stomach Infections – Infections caused by bacteria like Helicobacter pylori can lead to stomach inflammation and pain.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
- Gastroenteritis – An inflammation of the stomach and intestines usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
- Food Intolerances – Certain individuals may experience gastric pain after consuming specific foods they are intolerant to, such as lactose or gluten.
How Does Gastric Pain Feel Like?
Gastric pain can feel different for individuals, and its intensity and character can vary based on the underlying cause. However, some common descriptions of how gastric pain feels include:
- Dull Ache – Gastric pain is often described as a persistent, dull ache in the upper abdomen, usually around the stomach area. It may feel like a heaviness or discomfort that comes and goes.
- Burning Sensation – Gastric pain can be accompanied by a burning sensation in the stomach or upper abdomen, similar to heartburn. This feeling is often associated with acid reflux or gastritis.
- Cramping – Some people may experience cramp-like pains in the stomach region. These pains can range from mild to severe and may be intermittent.
- Tightness – Gastric pain can cause tightness or pressure in the upper abdomen, making the person uneasy.
- Gnawing Sensation – It is not uncommon for individuals with gastric pain to describe the discomfort as a gnawing or nagging feeling in the stomach.
- Radiating Pain – In certain cases, gastric pain may radiate to other areas, such as the chest or back, especially if conditions like peptic ulcers or gallstones cause it.
- Relief with Food – In some instances, mild gastric pain may subside temporarily or feel better after eating, but this relief is usually short-lived.
- Worsening Pain After Eating – On the other hand, certain individuals may experience increased gastric pain after eating, especially if they consume certain trigger foods.
When to Seek Medical Help?
It’s essential to seek medical help if you experience persistent or severe gastric pain that interferes with your daily activities, lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by alarming symptoms like black or bloody stools, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss. These could be signs of more serious conditions that require prompt medical attention.
What Are the Diagnostic Procedures to Identify Causes?
To identify the causes of gastric pain, a healthcare professional may perform various diagnostic procedures. These include physical examinations, medical history reviews, blood tests, stool tests to check for infections or blood, endoscopy (a camera examination of the stomach and oesophagus), and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds. These tests help determine the exact cause of gastric pain, guiding the appropriate treatment.
Why It’s Important to Share Detailed Symptoms With the Doctor?
Sharing detailed symptoms with the doctor is crucial because it helps in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of gastric pain. A clear understanding of the symptoms, such as the type of pain, its duration, triggers, and accompanying signs, allows healthcare professionals to narrow down the potential causes and devise a tailored treatment plan. Open communication with the doctor also ensures timely medical intervention, leading to a faster recovery and improved quality of life.
