Why Does Your Stomach Hurt?
By Sara Butler
At some point, nearly everyone has a stomachache. But it may not be your stomach that hurts at all since any organ in your abdomen could be the culprit. Here are a few of the reasons you may be experiencing tummy troubles.
Gallstones
Your gallbladder is a tiny sac that hangs out under your liver, collecting bile to help digest fats. Gallstones can form in the gallbladder, causing swelling and pain. In some cases, it may even block the duct that leads from the gallbladder to the intestines, making the situation even more painful.
Pain from the gallbladder is often felt in the upper right side of the abdomen and can strike after a particularly fatty meal. If the gallbladder is inflamed, then a fatty meal can make it worse.
Pancreatitis
If you experience a burning pain in the middle or upper abdomen, then it might be due to your pancreas. When it becomes inflamed it can cause you some serious pain. If you drink a lot of alcohol, then a bout of stomach pain may just be related to your pancreas. Get it checked out as soon as you can by a healthcare professional.
Lactose Intolerance
A lot of people are lactose intolerant and that can lead to some seriously uncomfortable stomach pains. If you often experience pain, gas, diarrhea, burping, or indigestion after consuming milk, cheese, or some other product containing lactose, then it just might be to blame. If it is, skip the dairy.
Thyroid Issues
Even though your thyroid is a gland in your neck, it can cause problems down below. That’s because the thyroid controls many functions in the digestive tract. If it produces too much hormone, then it will speed up digestion and cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. But if it’s not making enough hormone, then it can slow down the digestive tract and make you painfully constipated. If you notice this problem, get it checked out by a doctor!
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix and it is a medical emergency. If you experience sudden abdominal pain in the mid-abdomen that then progresses to the lower right side, then get yourself to the emergency room right away. If it’s not removed, then it could burst and lead to an infection, which has the potential to be very serious.
Stomachaches happen. What's important is to understand when it's an emergency and when it's not!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arvada, Colo.