Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms among individuals. This pain can be caused by a number of reasons, but they are felt in the abdomen as a larger span. Listed below are 6 of the most common conditions associated with abdominal pain.

1. Indigestion
Many people don’t realize that the most common source of abdominal pain is simply indigestion. This is mostly caused by indulging in too much food and drink. Abdominal pain is felt due to bloating and fullness in the stomach. Often when someone eats too much they may feel nauseous as well, making a pain in the abdominal regions as well. Indigestion can also be caused by acid reflux or GERD and may need to be treated with medication. Stress can also cause you indigestion as it irritates your stomach. Signs of indigestion are belching, gas, nausea, vomiting,and a burning in the stomach (not in the chest, this is heartburn).

2. Constipation
Many people don’t realize that constipation is one of the biggest factors in causing abdominal pain. Many foods can cause constipation, such as bananas and peanut butter. Though many people would rather not admit it or talk about it, everyone experiences constipation some time in their life. This can be characterized by a strain when experiencing a bowel movement or not having one at all. Vomiting and diarrhea can also be a symptom of constipation as there is a blockage in the bowels.

3. Gastroenteritis “Stomach flu”
Stomach flu is associated with a queasy feeling or having to go to the restroom all the time. Stomach flu is often caused by irritation and inflammation in the stomach lining.. Stomach flu is caused by a virus or bacterial infection and normally clears up within a couple of days, maybe even a week. Stomach flu has similar flu-like symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and nausea.

4. Menstruation
Menstrual cramps are often linked to abdominal pain due to the muscle contractions brought on by the release of hormones in females during their cycle. Due to the fact that the ovaries are so close to the intestines and abdominal region, the stress of the body can cause severe pain and result in a variety of symptoms depending on a woman’s body. These symptoms can range from nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, intense abdominal cramping, fever, fatigue, and dizziness. If the cramping is severe, medication may be prescribed in order to lessen the effects on the body during this time.

5. Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is more common than most people realize. Any source of spoiled unsanitary food or drink will cause food poisoning. There can be mild cases and even more severe and can be life threatening. Abdominal pain can be mild to extremely severe, most likely resulting in vomiting and diarrhea. The severity of the case depends on what bacteria or parasite is involved. The most common food poisonings are E. Coli, botulism, and Salmonella.

6. Gas
Gas is natural for the human body and is produced as the body breaks down food. Some foods produce more gas than others, often those high in fiber like beans and vegetables. This often results in a pain in the abdomen and can also be caused by lactose intolerance, food allergies, or a source of other problems if the gas is painful. See a doctor if this is the case because it could be a sign of ulcers, GERD, or IBS.

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