Burning in the stomach is quite unpleasant, it is a symptom indicating a problem in your gastrointestinal system. There are several reasons why it happens and they range from minor to severe problems.

If you experience frequent burning in your stomach, it is essential to see a doctor to prevent it from worsening. In this article, we will look at the various causes of burning in the stomach.

1. Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation that can be felt in the stomach. It’s also known as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The most common symptoms of acid reflux are heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

2. Ulcers

Ulcers can also cause a burning sensation in the stomach. The stomach and duodenal ulcers are characterized by a burning pain in the stomach that usually occurs when the stomach is empty.

The pain can last from a few minutes to a few hours, and can be relieved by eating food or taking antacids.

3. Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia happens when the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the thorax. In most cases, a hiatal hernia doesn’t cause any symptoms.

However, if the protrusion is large enough, it can cause reflux symptoms, including burning pain in the stomach.

4. Gall Bladder Disease

Gallbladder disease is another cause of burning sensation in the stomach. When stones form in the gallbladder, they can block the bile ducts, which can cause pain in the stomach, nausea, and vomiting.

The pain can be severe, and it usually occurs in the upper right part of the abdomen.

5. Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe abdominal pain, including a burning sensation in the stomach. The pain is usually felt in the upper abdomen and can be intense and relentless, lasting for several days.

6. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a group of digestive symptoms., including chronic abdominal pain, gas, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms can sometimes cause a burning sensation in the stomach.

IBS is a chronic condition that requires long-term management.

7. Food Intolerances

Food intolerances such as lactose or gluten intolerance can also cause a burning sensation in the stomach.

These types of food allergies occur when your body has trouble digesting certain foods, which can cause gastrointestinal distress, including a burning sensation in the stomach.

8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, including the stomach. The main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

They cause inflammation of the digestive tract, which can result in a burning sensation in the stomach.

9. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can cause physical symptoms, including a burning sensation in the stomach. Research shows that stress and anxiety can trigger the production of stomach acid, which can cause irritation and burning.

Stress management techniques such as therapy, meditation, and exercise can help alleviate the symptoms.

10. Medications

Some medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and steroids, can cause a burning sensation in the stomach.

NSAIDs irritate the stomach lining, while antibiotics and steroids can cause inflammation of the stomach lining.

The Bottom Line

Burning in the stomach can be caused by various factors. It is essential to see a doctor if you experience frequent burning. Your doctor will be able to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Effective treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and prevent complications.