Stomach aches are a common symptom of a wide variety of ailments and can range from mildly uncomfortable to excruciatingly painful. 
Medically Reviewed by Aman 


While most stomachaches don’t require a visit to the doctor, it is important to be aware of signs that your stomach pain may require medical attention. 

The most common causes of stomachache include eating too quickly, indigestion, gas pains, lactose intolerance, food poisoning or virus, and constipation. Other causes include stress and anxiety, ulcers, gallstones, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), kidney stones, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), diverticulitis and even certain medications. 

If you have abdominal pain that lasts more than a few days or has gotten worse over time, see your doctor right away. Other signs that could indicate serious health issues such as appendicitis include high fever accompanied by chills or nausea; significant vomiting; blood in stool; inability to pass gas or stool; unexplained weight loss; tenderness or swelling in the abdomen; weakness or fatigue; chronic heartburn; dizziness; sharp pains when coughing or sneezing. 

When diagnosing a stomachache there are certain tests that your doctor may run to determine the underlying cause. These tests can include: X-rays and CT scans to rule out gallstones or other blockages; an endoscopy to look inside the digestive tract for abnormalities like ulcers; colonoscopy which allows the doctor to look at the entire large intestine for anything suspicious looking. Blood tests may also be ordered to check for food sensitivities and check organ function. In addition, you will likely be asked about lifestyle factors including diet and activity level as well as any medications you may be taking. 

The best way to avoid developing stomachaches is to eat healthy meals throughout the day and make sure that your diet includes plenty of fiber and hydration in order to keep your digestion functioning smoothly. Avoid overeating and opt for low-fat foods whenever possible. Avoid cigarettes and alcohol consumption as they can both contribute significantly to upset stomachs as well as aggravate any existing conditions such as ulcers or IBS. Try managing stress with exercise like yoga or tai chi, mindfulness techniques like meditation and deep breathing exercises.