Any time you eat and develop pain, you need to talk with your doctor to inform her of your symptoms. Stomach pain that develops every time you eat something is a sign of a serious digestive condition. Chronic pain is a sign that something is not working correctly and needs a clinical diagnosis from your doctor. Do not attempt to treat or diagnose your condition based on your symptoms. Talk with your doctor before using any over-the-counter medications.
Cause
Pain in your stomach is commonly the result of inflammation that occurs in the lining of your stomach and intestines. The inflammation causes swelling and irritation to the digestive system. This can lead to pressure building up in your abdomen, resulting in cramping and pain. Inflammation in the digestive tract can also cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and bloating. Stomach pain may also be the result of excessive gas from certain digestive disorders. Knowing the cause of the pain will help determine the best treatment options.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a digestive condition that commonly causes pain in the stomach after eating anything. IBS mainly affects your colon but can cause bloating, gas, pain and cramping from eating. Your colon is lined with muscles that push the waste downward toward the anus. It is believed that abnormal muscle contractions or lack of contractions cause most IBS symptoms. IBS causes chronic diarrhea or constipation, depending on whether your muscles are overactive or underactive. This condition is treated by modifying your diet, taking medication and reducing your stress.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation in your intestines. The cause of Crohn's disease is unclear, but doctors know that it is related to heredity and the immune system. After eating, this disorder causes certain portions of your bowel to become inflamed and damage the lining of your large intestine. Severe cases of Crohn's disease can lead to debilitating pain in the abdomen. This condition is incurable but manageable through therapy, diet and exercise.
Food-related Conditions
Certain food-related conditions can cause chronic stomach pain after eating, such as food allergies and intolerances. The most common foods that can trigger an intolerance or allergy are found in a variety of foods. Highly allergic and intolerant foods include nuts, peanuts, fish, wheat, milk, soy and eggs. Food allergies are an abnormal reaction from the immune system, while food intolerance is a malfunction of the small intestine.
