Does your stomach hurt when you wake up and unsure what causes it? We all have experienced stomach pain at some point in our lives. You might be feeling a cramping sensation or a dull ache that comes and goes in the morning. While abdominal pain can occur at any time, you may feel pain when you wake up. It might be because of something you ate the night before, or your intestines might be preparing for a bowel movement. While most stomach pains are harmless, you shouldn’t ignore them if the pain doesn’t disappear. The persistent stomach pain could indicate a serious underlying health problem. So you should seek medical attention at your earliest.
Why does your stomach hurt when you wake up? Let’s discuss 5 possible causes of morning abdominal pain and how to stop it!
5 Possible Causes of Stomach Pain When You Wake Up
1. Ulcer
A stomach ulcer is a sore that forms in your stomach lining. It can cause a dull or burning pain in the space between your belly button and chest. This pain can occur at any time, but you may feel increased discomfort when you wake up. This is because pain is more likely to occur when your stomach is empty.
You can use an over-the-counter antacid to relieve symptoms. But it’s advisable to see your primary care physician if symptoms persist.
2. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that impacts the large intestines. You may feel pain in the lower part of your stomach. It can also cause other symptoms, including excessive gas, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
You should avoid consuming certain foods and stress that can trigger IBS. These foods include dairy, fried or fatty foods, and carbonated drinks. Include regular exercises, stress management, and fiber supplements into your lifestyle habits.
3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease can cause stomach pain around the lower right abdomen or the belly button. This condition can cause morning stomach pain. So, you should avoid high-fiber foods and carbonated drinks to improve discomfort. Since IBD has no cure today, your doctor may prescribe you anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics to improve symptoms.
4. Indigestion
Indigestion is another reason why your stomach could hurt when you wake up. You might feel pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and bloating in this case. It is important to note that indigestion is a symptom of other conditions, such as ulcers, gallbladder disease, and acid reflux. Eat smaller meals, perform stress management, and exercise regularly to improve the condition. Visit Houston’s primary care physician if indigestion persists for more than two weeks or if you experience weight loss, black stools, or vomiting with it.
5. Constipation
Constipation is when you have less than three bowel movements per week. It can cause hard, lumpy, or dry stools that are difficult to pass. A sedentary lifestyle can trigger this issue. So, make sure you increase your physical activity. In addition, a fiber supplement or stool softener, fruits, and vegetables may help improve symptoms. Visit Magnolia primary care physician if constipation lasts longer than two weeks.
Final Words
It is common to experience stomach pain. However, you should never ignore the pain that’s sudden, persistent, or gradually worsen. Morning stomach pain can be caused by something simple like gas or constipation, or it could indicate an underlying health issue that requires prescription medication, a special diet, or surgery.
So, if you feel stomach pain when you wake up for more than a week, contact the Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center. Call us today at 281-252-8600 for more details.