Why Does My Stomach Hurt? Common Causes and When to See a Doctor
Introduction
Stomach pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may come and go or persist for days. Because abdominal pain has many possible causes, it’s natural to ask: “Why does my stomach hurt?”
At Passion Health Primary Care, abdominal pain is evaluated carefully because the stomach and abdomen contain many organs. Understanding where the pain is, how it feels, and what other symptoms are present helps determine whether the issue is minor or needs prompt medical attention.
This article explains the most common causes of stomach pain, what symptoms may signal something serious, and when to see a primary care doctor.
What Does “Stomach Pain” Really Mean?
Many people use the term stomach pain to describe discomfort anywhere in the abdomen. However, abdominal pain can come from:
- The stomach
- Intestines
- Liver or gallbladder
- Pancreas
- Appendix
- Muscles or abdominal wall
Primary care providers assess the location, duration, and severity of pain to narrow down the cause.
Common Causes of Stomach Pain
1. Indigestion and Acid Reflux
Indigestion is a frequent cause of upper abdominal discomfort.
Symptoms may include:
- Burning sensation
- Fullness after meals
- Bloating
- Mild nausea
Certain foods, stress, or eating too quickly can trigger symptoms.
2. Gas and Bloating
Gas buildup can cause cramping, pressure, or sharp pains that move around the abdomen.
Common triggers:
- Certain foods
- Swallowing air
- Digestive sensitivity
Gas pain often improves after passing gas or a bowel movement.
3. Stomach Pain After Eating
Pain that occurs after meals may be related to:
- Acid reflux
- Food intolerance
- Gallbladder issues
- Gastritis (stomach lining irritation)
Primary care providers often ask about timing, food triggers, and frequency to determine the cause.
4. Constipation
Constipation can cause:
- Cramping
- Lower abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Feeling of fullness
Lifestyle factors, medications, and dehydration commonly contribute.
5. Stomach Viruses or Infections
Viral infections can cause:
- Cramping
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
These symptoms usually improve within a few days but should be monitored closely.
6. Stress and Anxiety
The digestive system is highly sensitive to stress. Emotional stress may cause:
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Changes in bowel habits
Primary care addresses both physical and emotional contributors to symptoms.
Location-Based Clues to Stomach Pain
Pain Location | Possible Causes |
Upper abdomen | Indigestion, acid reflux, gastritis |
Lower abdomen | Constipation, bowel issues |
Right side | Gallbladder, appendix |
Left side | Digestive or bowel-related causes |
Around the belly button | Gas, infection, inflammation |
Location alone does not diagnose the cause, but it provides important clues.
When Stomach Pain May Be Serious
Some symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.
Seek care if stomach pain is accompanied by:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Fever
- Persistent vomiting
- Blood in stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain lasting more than a few days
- Pain that wakes you from sleep
Sudden, severe abdominal pain should never be ignored.
How Primary Care Evaluates Stomach Pain
At Passion Health Primary Care, evaluation may include:
- Detailed symptom history
- Physical examination
- Review of diet and medications
- Lab tests if needed
- Imaging or specialist referral when appropriate
The goal is to identify the cause early and prevent complications.
Treatment Depends on the Cause
Treatment may include:
- Dietary changes
- Hydration and fiber adjustments
- Medication for acid or infection
- Stress management strategies
- Monitoring and follow-up care
Primary care focuses on safe, effective, and personalized treatment.
How to Reduce the Risk of Stomach Pain
Helpful preventive steps include:
- Eating balanced meals
- Avoiding trigger foods
- Staying hydrated
- Managing stress
- Maintaining regular bowel habits
- Getting routine preventive care
When to See a Primary Care Doctor
Schedule a visit if you:
- Have frequent stomach pain
- Experience pain after eating
- Have ongoing digestive discomfort
- Are unsure what’s causing your symptoms
- Want preventive guidance
Early evaluation often prevents more serious problems.
Why Choose Passion Health Primary Care?
At Passion Health Primary Care, we provide:
- Comprehensive abdominal evaluations
- Same-day visits when available
- Care for digestive, stress-related, and chronic conditions
- Patient-centered treatment plans
- Ongoing preventive support
We focus on finding the cause — not just treating the pain.
Final Thoughts
Stomach pain can have many causes, from mild digestive issues to conditions that require medical attention. Understanding your symptoms and seeking care when needed is key to protecting your health.
If you’re experiencing ongoing or unexplained stomach pain, Passion Health Primary Care is here to help with expert evaluation and compassionate care.
