Although sharp pains might cause a level of concern, they are most likely the result of excessive gas in your digestive system. Gas pains typically occur directly after you eat and can be treated with over-the-counter medications. Gas pains are commonly accompanied with swelling and tightness in your abdomen, commonly called bloating. If the pain in your stomach remains or progressively gets worse, call your doctor. Chronic sharp stomach pains might be a sign of a gastric ulcer.
The Basics
Gas pains can feel like an urgent medical emergency, but are harmless, although embarrassing. Everyone passes gas on a daily basis, but if gas builds up in your digestive system, you can develop sharp and jabbing pain. Most gas pains cause a knotted feeling in your abdomen accompanied by tightness and cramping, according to MayoClinic.com. Most gas pains are very intense, but brief in duration. Eliminating the gas from your digestive system will alleviate the sharp pains and other symptoms. Gas pains might be mistaken for gallstones and heart disease. You should have your symptoms assessed by your health care provider.
Causes
The two primary causes of gas pains include swallowing air when you eat or drink, or certain ingredients in foods that cause the formation of gases when they interact with bacteria in the colon. Common food elements that cause gas formation include sugars, starches and fiber, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Gas-forming foods include onions, prunes, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, whole grains, pasta and dairy products. Avoiding these foods might help prevent the formation of gas.
Prevention
Certain dietary and lifestyle changes might help prevent the formation of gas pains. Eat small meals often and avoid overeating. Eat your food slowly to avoid swallowing pockets of air and chew your food fully before swallowing. Don't eat when you're in a hurry, upset or anxious because stress can interfere with your digestive system. Stop smoking and increase your daily physical activity. Don't suck on hard candy, chew gum or use a straw to drink beverages because these activities increase your chances of swallowing air.
Ulcer Consideration
If you develop vomiting, a heavy stomach or unexpected weight loss, you might have a stomach ulcer, which is an open wound in the lining of your stomach that can cause pain after eating. Other symptoms might include feeling worse in between meals, feeling full fast and stomach pain that wakes you up at night.
