Mild stomach pain after eating can be a symptom of various conditions, such as food poisoning, the stomach flu or mild symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. Mild stomach pain is typically the beginning stages of a developing condition. At the first sign of stomach discomfort, talk with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. If you develop other symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, call your doctor.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is a result of eating or drinking food or drinks with infectious organisms, such as a virus, bacteria, parasites or toxins. Symptoms of food poisoning typically begin about two to four hours after consuming the food or beverage, according to MayoClinic.com. In some cases, symptoms may not develop for one to two days. The only cure for food poisoning is to drink plenty of fluids and get rest. Your body will work to rid itself and fight off the infectious organisms. Most food poisoning can be prevented by cooking all meat thoroughly, washing your hands before handing food and not eating left-overs.
Stomach Flu
The stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is an infection in the digestive tract that causes symptoms for one to three days, according to Kids Health. Despite its name, the stomach flu is not caused by the influenza virus, but by various other viruses. In the initial stages of the condition, you will experience mild stomach pain after eating that will eventually get worse with other symptoms. During the stomach flu, the intestines become irritated, inflamed and swollen, leading to stomach cramping and pain that is aggravated when you eat. Shortly after eating, you may experience vomiting, nausea and diarrhea.
IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition that causes erratic behavior of the large intestine, or colon. A primary symptom of IBS is stomach pain after eating and can develop with minor or severe pain, according to MedlinePlus. IBS is not caused by a digestion structural issue, but rather it is a malfunction that transpires in the brain. There is no long-term affect of IBS on your digestive tract. The condition is incurable but is treatable through diet, medication and lifestyle changes.
Consideration
Any stomach pain after eating may lead to diarrhea. The main concern of diarrhea is the risk of becoming dehydrated. If you suspect that you're dehydrated, you need to call your doctor. Untreated dehydration can cause brain damage and can eventually lead to death. Symptoms of dehydration are dry skin, dry mouth, dizziness and fatigue.
