The most common causes of stomach pain in women include gas pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or IBS and menstrual pain. In addition, overeating, a gallbladder attack, and gastritis can cause stomach pain in women. Typically, gas pain causes lower abdominal pain, however, trapped gas can result in upper abdominal pain, or epigastric pain. This type of pain can also cause chest pain and even mimic symptoms of a heart attack.
Usually, stomach pain in women that is caused by excess gas can be treated with anti-gas medications containing simethicone. This medication breaks up gas bubbles, relieves pressure and subsequently relieves pain. Viral or bacterial infections are also common causes of stomach pain in women, as is food poisoning. These causes not only cause stomach pain, but can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
Treatment for stomach pain in women that is caused by a bacterial infection generally requires antibiotics. After the infection has subsided, pain usually subsides as well. It is important to realize that antibiotics can cause stomach pain, and therefore prior to recommending them, the physician needs to consider the risks as well as the benefits. Irritable bowel syndrome usually responds well to a therapeutic diet, so sufferers might want to talk to a nutritionist or other health care provider who can help devise a menu plan.
During the menstrual cycle, it is common for women to experience lower abdominal or stomach cramps. Painful periods often respond to anti-inflammatory drugs and using a heating pad. When menstrual cramps become severe, or are accompanied by heavy bleeding, women need to consult their doctors to make sure other gynecological conditions are not present. A gallbladder attack can also cause stomach pain in women, however, this type of pain usually begins on the right side of the abdomen and radiates to the back.
When stomach pain in women becomes severe, or becomes more frequent, a medical examination needs to be considered. The physician typically will manually palpate the abdomen to feel for areas of tenderness and he might recommend other tests such as an upper or lower gastrointestinal x-ray series. An upper endoscopy study might reveal a peptic or duodenal ulcer, which can be treated with acid-blocking medication and avoiding certain foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Another common cause of stomach pain in women is constipation. Many women do not get the recommended amount of fiber in their diets, which can contribute to irregularity. In addition, hormonal fluctuations can cause constipation, as can not drinking enough water. Treatment for constipation includes adding more fiber to the diet, upping fluid intake, and sometimes, taking a mild laxative or stool softener. If persistent, however, women should consult with the physicians.
