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What are the Common Causes of Stomach Pain and Gas?

K. Gierok
K. Gierok

Stomach pain and gas can not only be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but in some cases, can also be indicative of a more serious condition. Typically, the most common cause is due to certain bacteria. The overconsumption of high amounts of foods that are rich in fat or are highly spicy, however, has also been linked to the development of stomach discomfort. In the most severe cases, these symptoms can be caused by chronic bowel disorders, such as Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome. Those who are prone to outbreaks are typically encouraged to seek medical assistance when symptoms occur.

One of the most common causes of stomach pain and gas is the presence of certain types of bacteria in the stomach. Typically, the bacteria that is most likely to cause problems is Helicobacter pylori. High amounts of this bacteria in the stomach can not only lead to pain and gas, but has also been found to lead to the development of more serious conditions, such as gastritis. In most cases, it can be successfully treated through the use of antibiotics and other prescription medications. Usually, once the bacteria has been killed, the symptoms associated with its presence also alleviate.

Bacteria in the stomach and overeating are common causes of stomach pain.
Bacteria in the stomach and overeating are common causes of stomach pain.

Chronic bowel disorders, such as Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome have commonly been linked to the development of stomach pain and gas. In most cases, the gas and pain associated with these conditions are typically quite mild initially, and increase in severity with time. For best results, those who have a history of Crohn's disease of irritable bowel syndrome should seek medical assistance immediately when symptoms appear. In most cases, chronic bowel disorders can typically be managed through diet and lifestyle changes, but for some people, surgery may be required in order to completely treat the condition.

Some foods, such as cauliflower, can cause gas.
Some foods, such as cauliflower, can cause gas.

Eating an excessive amount of food has also been linked to the development of stomach pain and gas. Typically, eating large amounts of foods that are rich in fat or are highly spicy lead to the most serious stomach problems. The overconsumption of carbonated beverages, like beer and soda, has also been found to lead to the development of gas and pain. In some cases, foods that are high in fiber, such as cauliflower, beans, cabbage, and other similar items, can cause a great deal of gas as they are broken down in the digestive system, which can lead to discomfort as well.

Discussion Comments

mobilian33

I regularly take various natural supplements for ailments and as a way to stay healthy. I have found that some of the supplements cause me to have stomach gas pain after I take them for a couple of weeks or maybe a little longer.

One of my favorite supplements is the garlic pills. Garlic is good for so many different things that you are likely to have some condition that it will help you with. However, I can't take the pills but for a short time and in small amounts because they give me gas.

Feryll

When I was in first grade I would get stomach aches on my way to school in the morning. I would tell my mother as she was driving me, and she would take me back home when the pain was really bad. Once I got back home the pain would go away. This went on for a couple of weeks before my mother took me to the doctor. After examining me he couldn't find anything physically wrong with me.

I don't remember exactly how we finally figured it out, but the stomach pain was caused by stress. I was so nervous and afraid of going to school that I got stomach aches. We learned that stress is a common cause of lower stomach pain and intestinal issues.

Sporkasia

My previous boss had chronic severe stomach pain related to irritable bowel syndrome. Sometimes the symptoms would get so bad that he would have to leave work for the day. The condition got gradually worse over a two year period or so. For him, changing his diet didn't seem to work very well after a while. Regardless of what he ate, he would get gas and other stomach problems and he would have to go to the bathroom.

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    • Bacteria in the stomach and overeating are common causes of stomach pain.
      By: evgenyatamanenko
      Bacteria in the stomach and overeating are common causes of stomach pain.
    • Some foods, such as cauliflower, can cause gas.
      By: ExQuisine
      Some foods, such as cauliflower, can cause gas.
    • Chronic bowel disorders have been linked to the development of stomach pain and gas.
      By: xalanx
      Chronic bowel disorders have been linked to the development of stomach pain and gas.