10 Possible Reasons Why My Stomach Hurts After Eating

Almost everyone has overindulged while eating at some point in their lives. This frequently results in indigestion, fullness, and nausea. However, stomach aches when consuming typical amounts of food could be an indication of a problem.

Most causes of stomach pain and indigestion are minor and do not necessitate medical care. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs can usually be used to manage a moderately upset stomach at home.

However, if your pain is moderate or severe, you should consult a gastroenterologist. Your symptoms may indicate a significant underlying disease.

Here are some reasons why your stomach might hurt after eating:

1. Food

Certain foods can cause adverse reactions in some people. After consulting with a doctor and getting tested, you may discover that you are allergic to or intolerant to something you usually consume. You may need to avoid those foods in the future.

2. Celiac disease

Celiac disease occurs when your body develops an immunological response to gluten, a protein present in wheat, barley, and rye. This is distinct from gluten intolerance in that the immune system is engaged in the reaction.

It damages the lining of the small intestine when exposed repeatedly. This causes stomach irritation and can lead to additional significant issues.

3. GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a long-term digestive illness in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This acid reflux irritates and damages the lining of your esophagus.

The most common symptom is heartburn and the sensation that your food is coming back up after you've swallowed it, but it can also cause chest pain.

4. Crohn’s disease

Crohn's disease is a severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Crohn's disease causes inflammation throughout the digestive tract, resulting in severe discomfort, diarrhea, and bloody feces, among other symptoms. It's a dangerous condition with possibly fatal consequences.

5. Ulcerative colitis

Another kind of IBD is ulcerative colitis (UC). It's a condition in which your immune system overreacts, resulting in inflammation and ulcers on the inner lining of your large intestine.

Research shows no specific foods cause UC, although some may aggravate symptoms. If you have one of these disorders and suspect that food is aggravating your symptoms, consult a doctor.

6. Peptic ulcers

Peptic ulcers are sores that form on the inside lining of the stomach and the top layer of the small intestine (duodenum).

Burning stomach pain is the most prevalent symptom of an ulcer. Spicy meals can increase this ache. You should also abstain from alcohol.

7. Biliary colic

Biliary colic is a stomach obstruction caused by a blockage in the bile duct, which is frequently caused by stones. The illness usually manifests itself after eating and causes pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This pain could be constant or intermittent.

Typically, a doctor will use blood or imaging tests to diagnose the disease. A cholecystectomy, or gallbladder removal, is typically used as treatment.

8.  Acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is pancreatic inflammation. It is currently the top cause of gastrointestinal hospitalization in the United States.

This illness can produce abdominal pain that radiates to the back. Gallstones, excessive triglycerides, and alcohol intake are all potential causes. A doctor will use blood tests or a CT scan to diagnose the problem.

The therapy depends on the cause, but it frequently includes intravenous fluids and pain relievers.

9. Constipation

Constipation occurs when stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract and cannot pass naturally. Chronic constipation (three or fewer bowel movements for several weeks) can cause stomach pain and bloating.

Your symptoms may worsen after eating since your body attempts to digest new food. Consume extra fiber-rich foods and drink plenty of water to ease constipation.

10. Indigestion

Indigestion, often known as dyspepsia or upset stomach, refers to an unfavorable reaction in the digestive system to a certain diet.

Indigestion can occur for a variety of causes. It is not a sickness in and of itself, but it can be a symptom of another problem. If you frequently get indigestion after eating, consult a doctor to determine the cause.