Stomach PAIN

From trapped wind to more serious gastric conditions, here’s how to tackle tummy pain

- ALI HORSFALL

Struggling with your stomach today? You won’t be the only one. In the UK, stomach ache is one of the top reasons we visit the GP, and it’s often a gripe that comes and goes. But when is abdominal pain an indicator of something much more serious? Dr Kinesh Patel, consultant gastroenterologist at The Lister Hospital, gives us the low-down.

Tummy talk

Confusingly, there are many reasons for a sore stomach. Trapped wind, difficulty digesting a meal, or simply needing a poo are often the usual suspects. Stomach ulcers, gallstones, and gastritis are also common conditions, and irritable bowel syndrome causes chronic pain in the abdomen. ‘Stomach ache is a result of nerves in and around the bowel becoming irritated by any of these conditions, and this leads the brain to feel pain,’ says Dr Patel.

Tell-tale signs

So, how can you discover the root cause of the discomfort? Firstly, identify your symptoms, says Dr Patel. He explains what to look for with common conditions that lead to pain – and how you can combat the cramps.

Wind and bloating

Trapped wind is embarrassing and uncomfortable but not serious in isolation. Occasionally, it can be a symptom of other conditions such as coeliac disease or ovarian cancer. With trapped wind, your belly will feel stretched and full, and a build-up of gas can be spotted by the need to pass wind – often!

BEAT THE BLOAT