But, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact reason for your pain.
“For example, indigestion, infections and even stress can all bring generalised discomfort, making it hard to distinguish between minor issues and something more serious.”
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Gastroenteritis is the scientific name for intestinal infections caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites. Food poisoning is a cause and occurs when you eat or drink something contaminated with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli.
“Formal treatment isn’t usually required. Instead, try to eat plain foods, keep hydrated and stay away from others where possible to prevent the bug spreading. You should start to feel better within a few days.”
The pain is usually in the upper part of your tummy and is typically worse at night. You might also experience heartburn, nausea and/or bloating.
Ovulation could be behind it
An uncomfortable dull ache in the run up to a period and the first few days of bleeding affects 80% of women at some stage in their lifetime, according to Women’s Health Concern, however Dr Khan says you might also experience pain around the time of ovulation, usually day 14 of a 28-day cycle.
“In many cases, pain can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers, warm compresses and gentle exercise and massage,” adds he adds.
“Your enteric nervous system (ENS) coordinates messages between your brain and digestive system. If you’re feeling anxious, this can disrupt your digestive system, either considerably slowing down or speeding up your digestion. This may result in tummy pain,” says Dr Khan.
Endometriosis can cause tummy pain
Endometriosis UK report that 10% of women worldwide suffer the condition. It occurs when cells similar to those lining the womb grow in other parts of the body, typically in areas around the womb, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes and even organs, such as the bladder and bowel.
Very heavy periods, extreme tiredness and pain during sex can also indicate endometriosis.
Dr Amos recommends seeing a doctor if the pain is persistent or you have a change in bowel habits (Photo: Getty)
A build up of gas in the digestive system can cause trapped wind. “This is often sharp, cramp-like pain and can sometimes feel like bloating. It can occur anywhere in the abdomen,” says Dr Amos. “You may burp or fart a lot and you may feel really full.”
“Gentle walks can help. Moving helps to engage the bowel and start peristalsis, wave-like muscle movements that help move trapped gas through your intestines,” adds Dr Amos. “Avoid fizzy drinks as you’re literally adding gas to gas.”
Know when it might be appendicitis
Appendicitis is swelling and infection in your appendix, a part of your bowel. “Pain typically starts in the central region around the belly button and then moves to the right lower abdomen,” says Dr Khan.
“Appendicitis is considered an emergency; your GP or hospital doctor will check your abdomen and you may be referred for tests. If it is appendicitis, your appendix might need to be removed or you’ll be given antibiotics to treat appendicitis.”
Dr Amos says: “Women who’ve had children say that having kidney stones has been worse than their labours! It’s often described as the most intense pain; it’s like a stabbing pain and it can be at the sides of the stomach and the back.
Low fluid intake is a huge contributor to kidney stones, so keep drinking water. Aim for up to three litres a day. Over the counter painkillers can help.
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“Pain can start in your tummy area and then spread to your back,” says Dr Khan.
“Gallstones can go away on their own although they might need to be broken up by shockwaves,” says Dr Amos. This non-invasive procedure is called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Visit your GP who can discuss your options.
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“The most important thing is to look out for any of the red flags. These include a change in bowel habits, loss of weight, fatigue, blood in your stool and difficulty swallowing. Any new symptoms in anyone over 50 need to be seen, urgently.”
“Older adults are more at risk of serious causes such as cancer,” Dr Khan adds. “Younger individuals may be more prone to conditions like appendicitis and functional disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).”
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