Even experienced athletes occasionally experience stomach pain during or after exercise. In many cases, the pain is simply an indication that you have eaten too much too close to your workout time, or that you need to slow down and take it easy. Occasionally, a stomachache after exercise can stem from a more serious condition.
Digestive Difficulties
Many times, stomach pain after exercising results from eating heavy foods too close to your workout. When you exercise, blood flows into your muscles and is diverted from your digestive organs. If you have recently eaten, you may experience nausea, stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhea. If you want to eat close to the time you will be working out, choose light, easily digested foods, such as a smoothie, fresh fruit, yogurt or a granola bar.
Asthma
If you have asthma, an upset stomach or pain in the stomach may be attributed to an exercise-induced bronchospasm. As your lungs lose heat and moisture during exercise, you may experience symptoms. Most people with asthma experience this condition during exercise, but you can suffer from exercise-induced bronchospasm even if you don't have a lung condition. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, cough and sore throat.
Referred Chest Pain
An upset stomach during or after exercise can sometimes stem from an injury or illness in the chest. Depending on the type of exercise, you may strain a muscle or injure your chest wall. A heart attack or angina may also cause referred pain to the stomach or nausea. Any sudden, severe or crushing pain that seems to be coming from the chest or back warrants emergency medical evaluation. If your stomachache is accompanied by dizziness, sweating or any other worrisome symptoms, call your doctor promptly.
Managing Pain
If you begin experiencing stomach pain during or after exercise, you may be able to treat your symptoms at home. First, if you are still exercising, slow your pace or stop and rest until your symptoms go away. Sit and remain upright if your stomach pain is accompanied by heartburn or indigestion, which may have been caused by eating too much before your workout. You can also take an over-the-counter antacid to combat excess acid in your digestive tract. If your symptoms don't resolve quickly or if you are concerned that your stomach pain may be caused by something serious, seek medical care.
