Stomach pain can be unexpected and uncomfortable. You might have experienced it at least once in your life. It can range from a mild discomfort to a severe pain that can leave you doubled over.

There are many reasons for sudden stomach pain, not all of which are related to the digestive system. Here are the surprising reasons for sudden stomach pain you might not know about.

1. Stress

Stress is a leading cause of stomach pain. When you are under stress, your digestive system tends to slow down, leading to bloating, gas, and stomach pain. Stress can also cause muscle tension in your abdomen, causing pain and discomfort.

If you are experiencing stomach pain and cannot find any obvious reasons, it might be due to stress. Trying relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help ease your symptoms.

2. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form in the ovaries. They are a common cause of sudden stomach pain in women. Cysts can grow and rupture, causing sharp, intense pain on one side of the lower abdomen.

If you are experiencing sudden and severe pain that comes and goes, it might be due to ovarian cysts. Other symptoms include bloating, nausea, and irregular periods. You should seek medical attention if you suspect you have an ovarian cyst.

3. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix – a small, finger-shaped organ that attaches to the large intestine. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Appendicitis can cause sudden and intense pain on the right side of the lower abdomen. The pain can become severe in a matter of hours and can be accompanied by symptoms like fever, nausea, and vomiting. If you think you might have appendicitis, seek medical attention right away.

4. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like substances that form in your kidneys. They can cause sudden and severe pain in your lower abdomen, back, or groin.

The pain can come and go, and can be accompanied by symptoms like blood in your urine, nausea, and vomiting. Kidney stones can be treated with medication, or in some cases, surgery. If you suspect you have kidney stones, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

5. Gynecological Issues

Women can experience sudden stomach pain due to gynecological issues. These can range from menstrual cramps to endometriosis. Menstrual cramps are a normal part of a woman’s menstrual cycle and can cause mild to severe pain in the lower abdomen.

Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing intense pain and discomfort. Other symptoms include heavy periods, pain during sex, and infertility. If you are experiencing sudden and persistent stomach pain that is related to your menstrual cycle, you should consult your doctor.

6. Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is caused by ingesting contaminated food or water. It can cause sudden and severe stomach pain, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Food poisoning can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

It can be treated with medication, but in some cases, it can be severe and require hospitalization. If you suspect you have food poisoning, seek medical attention right away.

7. Gallstones

Gallstones are hard deposits that form in your gallbladder – a small pear-shaped organ under your liver. They can cause sudden and severe pain in your upper abdomen, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Gallstones can be treated with medication, but in some cases, they might require surgery. If you are experiencing sudden and severe pain in your upper abdomen, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

8. Intestinal Blockage

An intestinal blockage occurs when your small or large intestine is partially or completely blocked. It can be caused by various factors like scar tissue, tumors, or ingested objects.

An intestinal blockage can cause sudden and intense stomach pain, along with symptoms like vomiting, constipation, and bloating. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you suspect you have an intestinal blockage, seek medical attention right away.

9. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas – a gland behind your stomach that produces enzymes to help with digestion. It can cause sudden and severe pain in your upper abdomen, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Pancreatitis can be caused by various factors like alcoholism, gallstones, or medication. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. If you are experiencing sudden and severe pain in your upper abdomen, you should seek medical attention right away.

10. Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition in which ulcers form in the lining of your stomach or small intestine. It can be caused by various factors like bacteria, medication, or alcohol.

Peptic ulcer disease can cause sudden and intense pain in your upper abdomen, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. If you are experiencing sudden and severe pain in your upper abdomen, you should consult your doctor.