Stomach Pain and Nausea: Common Causes and What to Do

Stomach pain and nausea are among the most common digestive symptoms. Often the cause is something short-term, like indigestion, a stomach virus, or food-related irritation. But depending on where the pain is, how severe it is, and what other symptoms are present, more serious causes may need attention.

If you have stomach pain and nausea right now, try our symptom checker for a personalized assessment.

Common Causes of Stomach Pain and Nausea

Indigestion or Acid Reflux

Overeating, spicy food, greasy meals, and acid reflux can cause upper abdominal discomfort, burning, bloating, and nausea.

Stomach Virus or Food Poisoning

If symptoms started suddenly, especially with diarrhea or vomiting, a stomach bug or food poisoning becomes more likely.

Gastritis

Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause nausea, upper stomach pain, burning, and poor appetite. Alcohol, NSAID pain relievers, and infection can contribute.

Constipation

Constipation can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea, especially if stool is backed up for several days.

Anxiety

The gut is highly sensitive to stress. Anxiety can cause cramping, nausea, poor appetite, and generalized stomach discomfort.

More Serious Causes to Consider

Gallbladder Problems

Pain in the upper right abdomen after eating, especially after fatty meals, can suggest gallbladder inflammation or gallstones.

Appendicitis

Pain that starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right abdomen, especially with fever or worsening nausea, needs prompt evaluation.

Ulcer or More Significant Inflammation

Persistent upper abdominal pain, vomiting, or black stools may point to an ulcer or bleeding problem.

When to Seek Medical Care

Get urgent care if you have:

• severe or worsening abdominal pain
• pain focused in one area
• repeated vomiting
• blood in vomit or stool
• black stools
• fever with worsening pain
• dehydration or inability to keep fluids down

What You Can Do at Home

If symptoms are mild and no red flags are present, you can try:

• sipping water or clear fluids
• bland foods like toast, rice, or crackers
• avoiding alcohol, greasy foods, and heavy meals
• resting and watching how symptoms change
• avoiding unnecessary NSAID pain relievers if they upset your stomach

Bottom Line

Stomach pain and nausea are often caused by indigestion, gastritis, infection, constipation, or anxiety. But severe, localized, or worsening pain needs medical attention because conditions like gallbladder disease or appendicitis may be involved.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.