Life
9 Stomach Pains & Issues You Should Never Ignore
How many times have you ignored some pain or ache, hoping it would go away? Although this approach can work some of the time, there are also important stomach pains and issues you should never ignore. For many people, a healthy gut equals a healthy life.
Granted, everyone eats something disagreeable or catches a stomach bug now and then. But if you experience these more serious or chronic symptoms, then it may be time for a trip to the doctor (or, in some extreme cases, emergency room). Abdominal pain could mean anything from your appendix to your pancreas is on the verge of some serious problems.
Although you may not want to spend a lot of time thinking about stomach issues (seriously, who does?), it's crucial to listen to your body and take action if anything seems amiss. You don't have to deal with recurrent or stabbing pain, as most of these conditions will respond to some form of treatment. For many people, simply making some minor lifestyle changes or taking medication is all that's needed to make for a happier belly. Read on to learn what types of stomach pain may signal serious conditions that need to be checked out at once.
1Pain In Lower Right Side Of Abdomen
When it comes to stomach troubles, the exact location of the pain may tell you a lot about the problem. For instance, WebMD noted that pain in the lower right side of your abdomen, especially if it worsens when you put pressure on the area, may be a sign of appendix problems. This is serious, and may warrant an emergency room visit: a burst appendix is no joke.
2Severe Pain In The Abdomen
As far as organs are concerned, the gallbladder is one you probably don't think about on the regular. But if you're having severe abdominal pain, especially if it's accompanied by indigestion or back pain, then it may point to a gallbladder condition, as noted in Everyday Health. Chronic gallbladder disease, inflammation, or even gallstones could be the culprit.
3Upper Abdominal Pain
Even your pancreas can develop some severe issues. According to WebMD, the symptoms of acute pancreatitis include upper abdominal pain that extends to the back, as well as a tender abdomen. As further noted by WebMD, acute pancreatitis is an inflammation that could range from discomforting to life-threatening.
4Stomach Issues During Periods
Granted, many periods are accompanied by stomach pain. But as noted by the Mayo Clinic, endometriosis may include symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, or constipation, often during menstrual periods. If this sounds familiar, then you may want to read up on the additional symptoms of endometriosis.
5Burning Sensation
Feeling a burning sensation between your chest and navel? If this pain is combined with nausea, bloating, or heartburn, then it may be an ulcer, according to Healthline. Stomach ulcers are sores that form in the stomach's lining or the small intestine, as further noted by Healthline, and they tend to be relatively easy to cure.
6Heartburn & Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a digestive disease that takes occurs when your stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. Additional symptoms include chest pain and a dry cough, as further explained by the Mayo Clinic. Thankfully, many people can manage the symptoms of GERD with changes to their lifestyle and over-the-counter medication.
7Stomach Pain & Cramping
Here's three words you never want to hear together: inflammatory bowel disease. According to Healthline, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a type of intestinal disorder, and its symptoms include stomach pain, cramping, diarrhea, and even bleeding ulcers. Worst case scenario: IBD can cause your body to go into shock, so it's smart to get checked out by a doctor ASAP.
8Abdominal Cramps & Pain
As far as intestinal issues are concerned, Crohn's disease is an absolute beast. Symptoms of Crohn's may include diarrhea, bleeding from the rectum, and abdominal pain, according to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). Testing from your doctor can determine whether this is the culprit of your problems.
9Pain Around Belly Button
Feeling backed-up? As noted in WebMD, pain around the belly button, bloating, and constipation may signal a bowel obstruction. Treatment may require a trip to the hospital, although some blockages can clear up on their own. Check with your doctor for advice.
