Stomach pain can be caused by a variety of factors such as digestive disorders, infections, inflammation, or trauma. It can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain.

Understanding the common causes of stomach pain is important in order to identify the appropriate treatment. Here are some of the most common causes of stomach pain:.

1. Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can be caused by ibuprofen or aspirin, excessive alcohol consumption, and infection with H. pylori bacteria.

Treatment for gastritis usually involves avoiding the causes and taking medications such as antacids and antibiotics.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a chronic digestive disorder that happens when stomach acid or bile flows back into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, nausea, and stomach pain. Obesity, pregnancy, and smoking can increase the risk of GERD.

The treatment for GERD includes lifestyle changes such as weight loss and avoiding triggers, as well as medications such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors.

3. Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. They can cause stomach pain, heartburn, and bloating. They are most commonly caused by infection with H.

pylori bacteria and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

The treatment for peptic ulcers includes antibiotics to treat the H. pylori infection and medications such as proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers to reduce the acidity in the stomach.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a group of chronic inflammatory disorders that affect the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the most common types. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

The treatment for IBD includes medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, as well as surgery in some cases.

5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common digestive disorder that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be related to abnormal contractions of the colon and sensitivity to certain foods.

The treatment for IBS includes dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, and medications such as antispasmodics and laxatives.

6. Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is a common illness caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli are frequently the cause of food poisoning.

The treatment for food poisoning involves rehydration and sometimes antibiotics.

7. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgery to remove the appendix.

The treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix.

8. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the ovaries. Symptoms vary from no symptoms at all to severe abdominal pain. Most cysts are benign and go away on their own, but some require surgery.

The treatment for ovarian cysts depends on the size and type of the cyst, and can range from watchful waiting to surgical removal.

9. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause intense pain in the abdomen, back, and groin. They can be caused by a variety of factors such as dehydration, obesity, and certain medications.

The treatment for kidney stones includes pain relief medications and sometimes surgery to remove the stones.

10. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can be caused by alcohol consumption, gallstones, and high levels of triglycerides in the blood.