Abdominal pain after eating can occur as a symptom of numerous conditions which range in severity. Indigestion, food poisoning and stomach ulcers are three common causes of such pain. If you experience frequent or severe abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly, as it can indicate an array of serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. When discussing your symptoms with your doctor, be sure to explain additional symptoms and the specific body areas your symptoms affect for best results.
Indigestion
Abdominal pain after eating may stem from indigestion, a condition that occurs when certain foods, behaviors or emotions disrupt the digestive process. According to the Mayo Clinic, stomach pain that has no other obvious cause is often diagnosed as non-ulcer stomach pain, meaning the pain indicates indigestion and is not related to a tear in the stomach lining, known as an ulcer. Such pain can develop immediately after eating or shortly thereafter and may continue for various lengths of time. Symptoms such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, uncomfortable fullness during or following a meal and vomiting may accompany abdominal pain. Most cases of indigestion are mild and treatable through lifestyle changes, such as avoiding spicy or deep-fried foods or eating more slowly, or through over-the-counter medications, such as antacids. Increasing relaxation and managing stressful situations in your life may also help prevent or reduce symptoms of indigestion. If your pain or other symptoms are severe or long-lasting, seek guidance from your doctor promptly.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning happens when your body reacts harshly to a contaminated food. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, abdominal cramping is a common symptom of food poisoning, which may occur within 30 minutes or more after ingesting the culprit. Additional symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, head or body aches or fever. Mild to moderate cases of food poisoning generally resolve themselves within several days, though severe cases may require hospitalization. Dehydration is a common complication of food poisoning, particularly if you experience extensive vomiting or diarrhea. To counteract dehydration, do your best to replenish and maintain proper fluids during and following symptoms. Beverages that contain electrolytes, such as Gatorade, may also prove useful, as electrolyte imbalances may occur. To avoid food poisoning, keep your hands and kitchen clean consistently and keep foods appropriately preserved in the refrigerator, consuming them prior to expiration dates and before they appear old or discolored. If your food poisoning symptoms are severe, seek medical attention to ensure proper recovery.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers, also known as stomach ulcers, refer to painful tears or sores in the stomach lining or small intestine. According to the Cleveland Clinic, no single cause is attributed to ulcers, though bacterial infections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin and ibuprofen) and overproduction of acid are common triggers. Pain in the upper or middle abdominal area between meals is a primary symptom of peptic ulcers. Additional symptoms may include pain during the night, bloating, heartburn (a burning feeling in the chest), vomiting or diarrhea. Many ulcers heal on their own, but medical attention should be sought regardless of the intensity of your symptoms. When left untreated, ulcers can cause excessive bleeding in the body, holes in the stomach or swelling or scarring in the digestive tract. Family history of ulcers, excessive alcohol consumption, liver or kidney disease and smoking are risk factors for the condition. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor promptly for best results.
