HOW TO TREAT STOMACH DISCOMFORT: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND STOMACH PAIN SOLUTIONS IN KENYA
Stomach pain accounts for millions of healthcare visits every year. While many cases are caused by temporary issues such as indigestion or a mild infection, persistent or severe abdominal pain can signal a more serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.
Understanding the possible causes of stomach pain and recognizing warning signs can help you know when to manage symptoms at home and when to actually seek professional care.
The location, intensity, and duration of the pain often provides important clues about the underlying cause.
COMMON CAUSES OF STOMACH PAIN
1. Indigestion (Dyspepsia)
Indigestion refers to stomach discomfort in the upper abdomen that usually manifests during or after eating. It is most common when consuming large quantities of food, alcohol or caffeine, spicy meals or eating too quickly.
Symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Excessive burping
- Nausea
- Feeling overly full after meals
2. Acid Reflux (Gastroesophageal Reflux Diseases, GERD)
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
- Upper stomach pain
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Frequent belching
- Difficulty swallowing
3. Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper intestine. They are commonly associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection or prolonged use of certain pain medications like Asprin, Ibuprofen and Diclofenac.
Symptoms may include:
- Burning sensation in the stomach
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Pain that worsens when the stomach is empty
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a functional large intestine disorder, meaning the intestines look normal but don’t function normally.
Symptoms may include:
- Recurrent abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Changes in bowel habits
5. Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder (a small organ under the liver that stores bile, which helps digest fats). They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.
The most common cause is consuming too much fatty foods (cholesterol).
Common signs include:
- Pain in the upper right abdomen that radiates to the back or shoulders
- Nausea
- Vomiting
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION?
Occasional stomach discomfort is common. However, if your symptoms persist for more than a few days, keep recurring, or interfere with your daily activities, it may be time to consult a specialist.
Seek immediate medical attention if stomach pain is accompanied by:
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe or worsening pain
- Fainting or dizziness
- Persistent vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- High fever
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
HOW DO DOCTORS DIAGNOSE STOMACH PAIN?
A healthcare provider may recommend several investigations depending on your symptoms.
- Endoscopy – A flex-tube with a camera is inserted through your oesophagus to assess the upper gastrointestinal tract.
- Colonoscopy – An endoscopy inserted through the rectum to assess the large intestine.
- Ultrasound scans – Use high frequency sound waves to create images.
- CT scans – Uses X-rays to generate 3D images of your digestive system.
CAN STOMACH PAIN BE PREVENTED?
While not all causes are preventable, healthy lifestyle habits like eating balanced diets, drinking enough water, limiting alcohol, smoking and processed foods, exercising regularly and managing stress levels can help.
READY TO TREAT YOUR STOMACH PAIN IN KENYA?
Stomach pain is a symptom rather than a disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in achieving better digestive health.
Contact Halcyon Hospital today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our comprehensive treatment solutions.