Why Does My Belly Hurt? 9 Common Causes and Home Remedies

Have you ever woken up or been struck with a sudden pain in your belly? Abdominal pain and stomach aches are an extremely common complaint. Your belly can hurt for dozens of reasons, from simple indigestion to more serious conditions.

Figuring out what's causing the pain can be frustrating. But identifying potential causes is key to finding the right treatment and relief.

In this article, we'll walk through some of the most frequent reasons for abdominal discomfort. We'll also explore natural home remedies you can try to soothe your stomach.

Common Causes of Belly Pain

Abdominal pain can originate from different parts of your digestive system. The specific location and type of pain can provide clues to the underlying reason.

Here are some of the most common causes of abdominal pain:

1. Indigestion and Heartburn

Indigestion refers to discomfort in your upper abdomen, often after eating. It's typically caused by stomach acid irritating your stomach lining.

Common symptoms include:

• A burning feeling in your stomach or chest
• Bloating
• Burping
• Feeling overly full during or after eating

Heartburn is a form of indigestion where stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus. This can cause a burning feeling in your chest.

Indigestion remedies: Avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, don't lie down after eating, antacids.

2. Constipation

Constipation means you're not passing stools as frequently as normal. It's often accompanied by abdominal pain and bloating.

Symptoms include:

• Passing fewer than 3 stools per week
• Hard, dry stools
• Straining to pass stool
• Feeling like bowels aren't fully emptied

Constipation remedies: Drink more water, eat high-fiber foods, exercise regularly, consider a fiber supplement.

3. Gas and Bloating

Excess gas can build up in your intestines due to swallowing air, digestion issues, or certain foods. This can cause uncomfortable bloating and sharp pains.

Symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain, cramps, pressure
• Burping, flatulence
• Stomach may feel swollen

Gas remedies: Limit gas-producing foods, take digestive enzymes, exercise, OTC medications.

4. Food Allergies and Intolerances

Allergic reactions or difficulty digesting certain foods can irritate your digestive tract. This often causes abdominal cramping and diarrhea after eating trigger foods.

Common problem foods include:

• Dairy
• Gluten
• Fruits and vegetables high in FODMAPs
• Artificial sweeteners

Food allergy remedies: Identify and avoid trigger foods, take allergy medication if needed.

5. Stomach Flu

Also known as viral gastroenteritis, stomach flu causes inflammation of your stomach and intestines. This leads to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Symptoms include:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Watery diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Fever, chills, body aches

Stomach flu remedies: Rest, stay hydrated, OTC anti-nausea/diarrhea meds, bland diet. See a doctor if symptoms don't improve.

6. Menstrual Cramps

Many women experience abdominal cramps during their menstrual periods. Pain is often localized to the lower abdomen.

Symptoms include:

• Dull, throbbing pain in the lower belly and back
• Cramping pain that comes and goes
• Bloating, headaches, fatigue

Menstrual cramp remedies: Heat pads, OTC pain relievers, regular exercise.

7. Stress

Though not obvious, stress and anxiety can manifest physically with mild stomach pain and digestive issues. The gut has a strong connection to the brain.

Symptoms may include:

• Intermittent stomach pain or cramps
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite

Stress remedies: Relaxation techniques, counseling, stress management.

8. Infections

Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections in your digestive tract can all cause inflammation and abdominal discomfort.

Examples include:

• Food poisoning
• Stomach flu
• Urinary tract infections
• Appendicitis

Infection remedies: Antibiotics or other medications depending on the infection, rest, hydration. See a doctor.

9. Other Conditions

Dozens of conditions like IBS, ulcers, gallstones, pancreatitis, endometriosis, and more can also lead to abdominal pain. The location and type of pain can help identify the condition.

Condition remedies: Vary based on underlying cause. See a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Soothing Home Remedies for Belly Pain

For mild or occasional abdominal discomfort, you may be able to find relief through home remedies. Here are some simple ways to help soothe your stomach:

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can trigger digestive issues and constipation, which can cause abdominal pain. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Flavored seltzer water can help make plain water more appealing.

Avoid Greasy or Spicy Foods

Foods high in fat or spice can overwork your digestive system and irritate your stomach. Limit these foods when your belly is upset. Opt for bland foods like rice, toast, oatmeal, or crackers.

Try Ginger

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. It can relax your GI tract and ease nausea. Try ginger tea, ginger ale, ginger candies, or fresh ginger in cooking.

Sip on Peppermint Tea

Peppermint is known for its ability to improve digestion and reduce gas and bloating. The menthol provides a soothing effect. Drink peppermint tea when you feel abdominal discomfort coming on.

Brew Some Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation. This floral tea can help calm cramping, indigestion, and overall stomach upset.

Use a Heating Pad

A heating pad, hot water bottle, or heated wheat bag can help relax your stomach muscles. Apply gentle heat to your abdomen for 20 minutes as needed.

Stick to the BRAT Diet

BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These bland, low-fiber foods are easy on your stomach. Stick to this diet when experiencing nausea, diarrhea or cramps.

Try Apple Cider Vinegar

The acetic acid in ACV can help balance stomach acidity and relieve indigestion. Mix 1-2 tsp into water and drink before meals.

Soothe with Seltzer and Lime

The carbonation in seltzer water can help relieve bloating and gas pain. Add a squirt of lime juice for vitamin C. SIP slowly.

When to See a Doctor

While home remedies can provide relief for mild belly pain, severe or persistent pain should be evaluated by a doctor.

See your physician if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn't improve with OTC meds
• Pain lasting more than 24-48 hours
• Fever over 101°F (38°C)
• Bloody or black stools
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Pain with urination

Severe abdominal pain can indicate a serious problem like appendicitis, pancreatitis, gallstones, or bowel obstruction. It's important to seek medical care.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You may undergo exams or testing like:

• Physical exam of your abdomen
• Blood and stool tests
• Abdominal CT scan
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Endoscopy

Based on the cause, your doctor may prescribe medication, recommend dietary changes, or advise surgery.

When to Worry About Belly Pain

Abdominal discomfort is very common and usually not a major concern. Mild, occasional pain can often be managed at home with rest, hydration, and OTC meds.

However, severe or persistent pain should never be ignored. Pay attention to any "red flag" symptoms and see a doctor promptly if you don't find relief within 24-48 hours.

Identifying the underlying cause of your abdominal pain is crucial for finding the right solutions. With an accurate diagnosis, most belly pain can be treated effectively.