Understanding the Causes and Determining the Solutions for Stomach Pain

The human stomach is the digestive organ located high up, under the breast bone behind the solar plexus. Most pain in the stomach is a symptom of Gastritis. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining.

The most common causes of stomach pain include food poisoning, infection, a drug, or an allergic reaction. However, in some cases even an excess of certain gastric acids may be held responsible. Usually, however, common stomach pain is a result of overindulgence of food and/or drink.

It is uncommon for pain to last in excess of 48 hours. Avoid taking aspirin for stomach pains as it commonly irritates many individuals' stomachs. Many times, taking a simple antacid may help to relieve some of the pain.

Usually, pain caused from Gastritis comes and goes; however, if the pain is constant and seems to last longer than three hours you should seek medical attention. Any indication of internal bleeding, such as blood in your vomit or black stools should be immediately reported to your family physician.

On the first day, try to limit your intake to smaller amounts of liquids and try to avoid food consumption all together. On the second day, eat bland foods in small portions as it is easier for your stomach to digest.

Should a stomachache persist more than two days or you have frequent stomachaches, it is best to seek professional medical attention by talking with your doctor. You and your doctor may then be able to identify the substances or conditions that are causing the problem. The problem could possibly be hurried meals, stress, smoking, or excessive alcohol or coffee consumption. In children and teenagers it is often more difficult to determine and diagnose the causes of stomach pains. Often times, pain may be associated with mealtime tension or anxiety from school or social life.

An attack of Gastritis can be so acute that often times it may mimic similar symptoms of a heart-attack such as a shooting pain in the shoulder or arm. It is best not to underestimate or take a gamble in these types of situations and just assume it is a heart-attack, then get to a doctor right away. It is worth the reassurance even if the doctor sends you home with a prescription for an antacid... don't you agree?

There are also many other possible causes of stomach pain such as food poisoning, heartburn, indigestion, and nausea. Lower-abdominal pain and cramping is a common sign of constipation or in women, menstrual cramps. In any case, if you become uncertain and the pain becomes unbearable, lasts a few days, or seems to frequently reoccur it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible.