Chronic nausea and stomach pain after eating can describe the symptoms of multiple conditions. It could be something minor, but it could also be something more severe that could require surgery to correct. If you frequently experience chronic pain and nausea after eating, seek a proper diagnosis by a licensed medical professional. Do not attempt to self-treat at home, as this may prolong your symptoms and complicate your condition.
Chronic Cholecystitis
Chronic cholecystitis, or chronic gallbladder disease, causes frequent pain and nausea after eating, especially when the meals are high in fat, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Gallstones and gallbladder inflammation are typical characteristics of chronic gallbladder disease. This may cause your gallbladder to become scarred and stiff. Other common complaints associated with chronic gallbladder disease include gas, loss of appetite and chronic diarrhea. Your health care provider may recommend surgical removal of the gallstones or possibly surgically removing your gallbladder.
Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis hospitalizes approximately 210,000 Americans annually, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC. Acute pancreatitis may begin as either a gradual or sudden sharp pain in your upper abdomen, or the pain can sometimes radiate to your back. Gallstones are often the culprit of acute pancreatitis, but so is heavy, chronic alcohol use. You may experience the onset of pain within hours of eating and experience nausea, vomiting and a rapid pulse. Treatment typically involves hospitalization and medications for pain management, along with antibiotics. Severe pancreatitis may require weeks of hospitalization while your pancreas heals.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, occurs most commonly in individuals who have a sensitive colon or large intestine, according to NDDIC. NDDIC also reports that some individuals may suffer from IBS due to bacterial infections or parasites lining the intestines or digestive tract. Those who have celiac disease may be at an increased risk of developing IBS. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, nausea, constipation and diarrhea; it affects individuals differently. You may experience the symptoms for weeks at a time, then not have any symptoms at all. They may also come and go periodically. There is no cure for IBS, according to NDDIC, but making lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms, such as stress management and change in diet.
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition also known as delayed gastric emptying. This condition primarily affects those who are diabetic, but other conditions may cause this condition to occur such as surgery on the vagus nerve, eating disorders, certain medications, viral infections and those who suffer from smooth muscle disorders, metabolic disorders and nervous system diseases. Certain foods, such as fatty foods or foods high in fiber and raw vegetables may trigger the symptoms. Your doctor will most likely prescribe a medication to help improve and manage your condition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease- Symptoms
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC): Pancreatitis
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC): Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC): Gastroparesis
