What Can Be the Cause of a Stomach Pain That Comes and Goes?

Introduction

Stomach pain is common, and everyone experiences it at some point. Sometimes, it can be confusing as to where the pain originates from, especially when there are frequent episodes of severe pain. Two types of pain come with a long duration: chronic pain (present throughout the period) and recurring pain (which comes and goes).

What Is a Pain That Comes and Goes in Intervals Called?

A pain that comes and goes in intervals is called "recurrent abdominal pain" (RAP). There can be many reasons why this pain might recur. Therefore, it needs to be diagnosed and treated appropriately.

What Can Be the Cause of a Stomach Pain That Comes and Goes?

There can be many causes for stomach pain that comes and goes. It might include:

• Gas: Gas can get trapped while the food is eaten very quickly. It can also be formed during the digestion of carbohydrates. Belching and flatulence are two ways of releasing the trapped air. The process of expelling the air trapped in the mouth is called belching. On the other hand, releasing the trapped air through the anus is called flatulence. If the trapped air is not let out, it can cause bloating and abdominal pain. Belching and flatulence are normal human processes. But pain caused by gas for a long time can result from an underlying stomach condition that must be diagnosed and treated.

• Constipation: When the bowel is passed fewer than three times a week, it is called constipation. In addition to abdominal pain, symptoms like dry, hard stools, pain, and difficulty passing stools can be present. Frequent episodes of constipation might denote an underlying condition that needs attention.

• Stomach Ulcer: This is also called a peptic ulcer. A wound or discontinuation in the stomach's lining is a peptic ulcer. It causes a dull, burning pain. It can last minutes to hours and recur within months, days, or weeks. The condition can become complicated if left untreated.

• Ovarian Cyst: An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac in the ovary. They are harmless and usually do not cause any major symptoms. But there can be abdominal pain, bloating, etc., especially during ovulation. If sudden pain and vomiting are present, medical attention is required as there are chances that the cyst has ruptured.

• Dysmenorrhea: Severe abdominal pain and cramps during menstruation are termed dysmenorrhea. Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can be seen in some women.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Constipation, bloating, gas, and diarrhea are seen in addition to abdominal pain. Changes in diet and some lifestyle modifications can help improve the condition.

• Braxton Hicks: These are also called false labor contractions. Contractions that occur in the third trimester of pregnancy. These contractions are not regular and may not indicate delivery. The contractions in true labor occur at regular intervals and increase in intensity with time.

• Muscle strain: Muscle strain can happen when the abdomen is twisted or sprained during a workout. It can intensify while laughing, sneezing, or coughing.

• Gallbladder Problems: Pain in the abdomen can lead to the mistaken belief that the stomach causes the pain. The pain will be triggered by eating fatty foods.

• Norovirus: This is a food-borne disease that is contagious. Diarrhea and vomiting will be present in addition to stomach pain. The symptoms usually subside within two to three days.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Research shows that the symptoms of irritable bowel disease, like abdominal pain due to obstruction or inflammation, usually resolve with treatment. People with IBD might have abdominal pain constantly for three months, or it can be intermittent for six months. Symptoms of IBD can include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and diarrhea.

• Stomach Cancer: The abdominal pain associated with stomach cancer is similar to that of a stomach ulcer. The pain might increase with the intake of food. The pain might become severe and persistent over time. Weight loss, nausea, and vomiting might be other associated symptoms.

How Is Intermittent Stomach Pain Diagnosed?

It is important to understand the underlying cause of repeated stomach pain. The diagnosis can include a detailed case history taking note of the symptoms, dietary habits, and lifestyle. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT (computed tomography) scans, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans, etc., can be taken if the doctor feels they are required. Other tests required include stool, urine, and blood tests.

How Do You Treat Intermittent Stomach Pain?

Stomach pain on and off should be treated based on the underlying cause. This can be decided based on the case history, symptoms associated with it, and other investigations.

• Gas: This usually resolves with dietary changes and lifestyle modifications. If the issue is due to some medications or supplements, they can be substituted with alternatives.

• Constipation: This also usually resolves with dietary changes and lifestyle modifications. Over-the-counter medications might also help to solve the condition. Medical attention might be required if it is a frequent issue or occurs for longer periods.

• Stomach Ulcers: The treatment may vary according to the underlying cause. The underlying cause should be diagnosed properly and treated accordingly.

• Ovarian Cysts: These are usually harmless, but if the pain is severe, frequent, or associated with symptoms like bleeding, medical attention would be required.

• Dysmenorrhea: This can be treated with over-the-counter drugs like painkillers.

• IBS/IBD: This can be resolved with dietary changes, regular exercise, and other lifestyle modifications. Medical attention must be given if the symptoms continue despite these changes.

• Uterine Contractions: Seek medical help to identify the type of contraction.

• Gallbladder Issues: These might require medical help and should be treated according to the condition.

• Norovirus: Proper rest and fluid replacement should be taken. Signs of dehydration must be noted and resolved immediately.

• Stomach Cancer: The treatment would depend on the severity and stage of the condition. Proper medical attention should be given.

Conclusion

If the stomach pain is severe or frequent, it is always better to seek medical help. In addition, if any other symptoms, like bleeding, difficulty breathing, blood in the stool, etc., are noted, medical help should be sought immediately.