Certain types of stomach or abdominal pain can be sharp or stabbing. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, or AAFP, the quality of abdominal pain differs between conditions. Some types of abdominal pain can be dull, achy or cramping, while other types of abdominal pain can be sharp and stabbing. The AAFP states that a person with sudden, severe abdominal pain should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can cause sharp pain in the stomach or abdomen. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, food poisoning occurs when a person consumes food or drinks contaminated with bacteria, parasites or viruses. Germs can contaminate food and beverages in several ways, including improper food handling or preparation in restaurants, grocery stores or at home, or through contact with animal intestinal bacteria in meat processing plants. Common signs and symptoms associated with food poisoning include the following: sharp abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever and chills, headache, nausea and vomiting, and muscle weakness. Food poisoning can be caused by botulism, cholera, E. coli, salmonella, shigella and other agents. The NIH states that food poisoning-related symptoms usually arise about two to six hours after consuming contaminated food or beverages.
Heart Attack
A heart attack can cause sharp pain in the stomach or abdomen. The Mayo Clinic website states that a heart attack can cause stomach pain or pain that extends downward into the abdomen. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, or NHLBI--a division of the National Institutes of Health--heart attacks are caused by an obstruction or blockage of one or more of the coronary arteries. These arteries transport blood to the heart muscle and tissues. When blood flow to a portion of the heart is impaired or blocked, heart muscle tissue in the affected area becomes starved for oxygen and may die unless circulation to that area is restored. Along with stomach and abdominal pain, common signs and symptoms of a heart attack include the following: chest discomfort and pain, upper body pain, shortness of breath, anxiety or feelings of impending doom, lightheadedness, sweating, nausea and vomiting.
Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis can cause sharp stomach or abdominal pain. According to the Mayo Clinic website, acute pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas--a long, narrow gland and organ that's situated behind the stomach in the abdominal cavity. The pancreas is responsible for producing enzymes that aid digestion, along with blood-sugar-regulating hormones. Acute pancreatitis manifests suddenly and usually lasts for many days. Although some cases of acute pancreatitis are mild and may not require treatment, severe cases can endanger a person's life and cause numerous complications. Common signs and symptoms associated with acute pancreatitis include sharp pain in the upper abdominal area, abdominal pain that radiates to the back, abdominal pain that's worse after eating, abdominal pain that's made better by bending forward or flexing the spine, nausea, vomiting and abdominal tenderness.
