Common causes of stomach pain in women include gas, IBS, period pain, overeating, gastritis, and gallbladder attacks. Treatment options vary depending on the cause, but may include anti-gas medications, antibiotics, and dietary changes. Women should seek medical attention if the pain becomes severe or frequent.
The most common causes of stomach pain in women include gas, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and period pain. Also, overeating, a gallbladder attack, and gastritis can cause pain in the abdomen. Typically, gas pain causes lower abdominal pain, although this pain may be felt in the upper abdomen, called epigastric pain. It can also cause chest pain and even mimic the symptoms of a heart attack.
Stomach pain caused by excess gas can usually be treated with anti-gas medications containing simethicone. This drug breaks up gas bubbles, relieves pressure, and subsequently relieves pain. Viral or bacterial infections are also common causes of stomach pain, as is food poisoning. These conditions can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
Antibiotics are usually needed to treat stomach pain caused by a bacterial infection. After the infection has subsided, the pain usually goes away as well. It is important for women to realize that antibiotics can also cause stomach pain, so a healthcare professional must consider the risks and benefits of this drug.
Irritable bowel syndrome causes chronic stomach pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. It is more common in women and the causes are unclear. IBS usually responds well to a therapeutic diet, so sufferers may wish to speak to a nutritionist or other health care professional who can help devise a menu plan.
During the menstrual cycle, it is common for women to experience lower abdominal or stomach cramps. Painful periods often respond to anti-inflammatory medications and the use of a heating pad. When menstrual cramps become severe or are accompanied by heavy bleeding, women should see a doctor to make sure no other gynecological conditions are present. A gallbladder attack can also cause stomach pain in women; however, this type of pain usually starts on the right side of the abdomen and radiates to the back.
When the pain becomes severe or more frequent, a woman should consider being examined by a doctor. The healthcare professional will typically feel the abdomen for areas of tenderness and may recommend other tests, such as a series of upper or lower GI X-rays. An upper endoscopy study might reveal a peptic or duodenal ulcer, which can be treated with acid-blocking medications and avoiding certain foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Another common cause of stomach pain is constipation. Many women don’t get the recommended amount of fiber in their diet, which can contribute to the irregularity. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations can cause constipation, as can not drinking enough water. Treatment involves adding more fiber to your diet, increasing your fluid intake, and sometimes taking a mild laxative or stool softener. If persistent, however, women should see a doctor.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
