At night my stomach hurt very badly. Why does my stomach hurt at night, reasons for treatment. Nature of pain

There are two most common types of pain.

Spasmodic or convulsive pain, also called colic, makes itself felt in wave-like attacks of varying intensity. Its causes are compression or stretching in the intestines, which occur due to hyperactive peristalsis, for example, excessive gas formation in the intestines, infectious inflammation or stress.

Constant abdominal pain is characterized by a relatively stable and constant manifestation. Patients may complain of a “fire in the stomach” and describe cutting, sharp, or “hungry” pain. This type of pain can occur due to ulcerative lesions, abscesses and other dangerous inflammations of the abdominal organs, attacks of cholelithiasis or acute pancreatitis.

Accompanying symptoms

Abdominal pain at night may be accompanied by rumbling, which becomes more pronounced when changing position or taking a horizontal position. These symptoms must be taken into account, since they indicate disturbances in the activity of the stomach, intestines, bile ducts, or the occurrence of inflammatory processes in the stomach. Chills and fever usually accompany dangerous intestinal infections or blockage of the bile ducts. Changes in the color of urine and feces are also a sign of blockage of the bile ducts. In this case, the urine predominantly darkens, and the feces become lighter, even white.

Moreover, if intense and cramping pain is additionally accompanied by black or bloody stools, internal bleeding should be suspected and immediate hospitalization should be performed.

Duration and causes of nighttime abdominal pain

Pain lasting anywhere from a couple of seconds to a minute should not be a cause for concern in most cases. If the pain lasts for hours or even days, then this is already a serious sign and a signal for an early medical examination.

Abdominal pain can occur suddenly at any time. A common symptom of abdominal pain syndrome is severe abdominal pain that causes you to wake up at night. However, it can occur before or after meals, before bowel movements, or immediately after bowel movements.

Frequent causes of abdominal pain may be irritable bowel syndrome, as well as biliary dyskinesia. However, with irritable bowel syndrome, pain at night is practically not bothersome. They occur immediately after eating, against the background of diarrhea, bloating, increased peristalsis, rumbling and loss of stool. After defecation and passage of gases, such pain goes away. There is no fever, weight loss or anemia.

The most common cause of pain is the food consumed. Irritation of the esophagus is caused by salty, excessively hot or cold foods. Fatty foods rich in cholesterol provoke the formation or movement of gallstones, which ends in biliary colic. In addition, some people are generally intolerant to a number of products, in particular to milk, lactose, and milk, and their consumption causes cramping abdominal pain, diarrhea and bloating.

Localization of pain

The location where the pain is felt is one of the main factors in diagnosis. If pain manifests itself in the upper abdominal cavity, it is often provoked by disorders in the esophagus, biliary tract, intestines, pancreas, and liver.

With inflammatory processes in the liver, painful sensations are concentrated in the upper right part of the peritoneum. Sometimes they radiate under the right shoulder blade.

With ulcers and pancreatitis, shingles occurs. The small intestine signals pathologies with pain localized around the navel, and the large intestine - in the center of the peritoneum and below the navel.

Abdominal pain should not be eliminated with painkillers. When the cause of the pain is unknown, a heating pad can also cause harm. If you experience pain in the abdomen, you should at least go to a general practitioner.

Treatment for severe night stomach pain may include medications, surgery, and psychotherapy. Diet adherence is mandatory.

Severe stomach pain at night can occur due to various pathologies that cause:

• disruption of the intestines and stomach;
• increased acidity of gastric juice;
• inflammatory response of mucous tissues;
• contraction of smooth muscles (spasm);
• thrombosis.

With peptic ulcer and cholelithiasis, gastritis, abscess and pancreatitis, the pain is constant, but if during the daytime a person concentrates less on sensations, then at night the discomfort no longer allows him to fall asleep, making the pain seem much stronger. In some cases, the stomach hurts at night due to objective reasons.

Pathologies caused by increased acidity of gastric juice

“Hungry” abdominal pain appears at night because the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the gastric juice increases and the process of autolysis begins, that is, self-digestion of the stomach walls. Acid-dependent diseases include the following pathologies.

Gastritis

Normally, the walls of the stomach are protected from the aggressive effects of secretions by mucus. Under unfavorable factors, this protection is destroyed and an inflammatory process begins in the mucous membrane.

Against the background of inflammation, erosions appear, which, if the course is favorable, can regenerate within three days, and if the course is unfavorable, transform into an ulcer. The ulcer may heal within two weeks, otherwise a chronic peptic ulcer develops.

Peptic ulcer

When the disease occurs, ulcers appear on the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum. Pathology occurs due to toxins secreted by Helicobacter, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heart disease, lung disease, liver disease, and exposure to stress.

An ulcer appears due to the fact that, against the background of a deterioration in the evacuation function of the gastrointestinal tract, the protective function of the mucous membrane is impaired and it is affected by the aggressive environment of gastric juice (hydrochloric acid, pepsin, bile).

During an exacerbation, pain is felt in the epigastric region (under the stomach), which can spread to the left side of the back, chest, shoulder blade, lower back, sometimes pain begins from the center of the spine. If an ulcer has developed in the pylorus, then pain often occurs at night or late pain (3-4 hours after eating), and its intensity increases.

Also, with a peptic ulcer, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, bloating, abnormal bowel movements, bad breath, and coating on the tongue occur. Gagging usually occurs at the peak of pain and brings relief. Artificial induction of vomiting leads to the development of the disease.

Functional dyspepsia

It develops as a result of increased secretion of hydrochloric acid, infection with Helicobacter pylori infection, drug therapy, malnutrition, and hypovitaminosis. Under unfavorable factors, the sensitivity of visceral receptors in the gastric mucosa increases, which leads to impaired motor and secretory function.

The disease manifests itself as pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of early satiety. In the ulcer-like form of the disease, severe night or “hungry” pain occurs, which manifests itself against the background of emotional stress. The symptom subsides after eating or taking antacids.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

With pathology, the walls at the bottom of the esophagus are inflamed, as there is a reverse movement of acidic gastric and intestinal contents. The disease occurs due to a violation of the canal’s ability to evacuate food into the stomach and a decrease in the protective function of the mucous tissue.

The aggressive environment irritates the esophageal mucosa, which leads to deep ulcerations and greatly increases the risk of developing cancer.

Symptoms of reflux include heartburn, belching, and chest pain. If this occurs more than twice a week, then it is necessary to conduct an examination.

As a rule, these pains go away if you eat. To avoid reflux, it is recommended to eat small meals every 3-4 hours and no later than three hours before bedtime, avoid taking medications that affect the functions of the esophagus and act aggressively on the mucous membrane, and raise the head of the bed by 15 centimeters.

For peptic ulcers, pain can be relieved by applying a cold heating pad or an antispasmodic

To reduce the production of hydrochloric acid, antacids (magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, aluminum phosphate, aluminum hydrochloride), H2-histamine blockers, and proton pump inhibitors are prescribed. The patient is advised to follow a diet and adhere to a diet, not to overeat and not to take long breaks between meals. After eating, you can’t go to bed to rest, you need to move.

Pathologies leading to reflux

Night abdominal pain can also develop because all organs of the gastrointestinal tract are at the same level. Pain and heartburn occur because stomach contents can more easily enter the esophagus. For this reason, pain often appears at night due to the following pathologies.

Achalasia cardia

Pathology of the esophagus, in which peristalsis and muscle tone change during swallowing, which leads to disruption of the passage of food from the esophagus to the stomach. Since reflexive relaxation of the sphincter does not occur, difficulties appear when swallowing food (at the early stage it is solid, at the later stage it is difficult even to drink), regurgitation.

The reflux of food mass from the esophagus into the oral cavity can occur during meals or after 2–3 hours. Sometimes this happens during sleep (nocturnal regurgitation), which causes a “night cough” as food gets into the airways. Pain occurs on an empty stomach or while eating.

They are localized behind the sternum and can extend to the jaw, neck, and area between the shoulder blades. The disease is characterized by paroxysmal pain that occurs during anxiety, at night or during physical activity, lasting from two minutes to an hour.

Diaphragmatic hernia

Pathology is formed when part of the organ, which normally should be located under the diaphragm, is displaced into the thoracic region. The disease provokes chest pain, heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, hiccups, and arrhythmia.

The pain is localized in the epigastric region, spreads along the esophagus, extends to the area between the shoulder blades or the back, and can be encircling. Pain occurs when lying down, during physical activity, coughing, and after eating.

An acquired hernia is formed as a result of weakening of the esophageal ligaments. A systematic, sharp increase in intra-abdominal pressure (constipation, severe vomiting, bloating, obesity, blunt trauma, lifting something heavy, sudden bending) increases the risk of developing the disease.

Even in the absence of sphincter pathology, reflux can occur when bending over, exercising, or at night.

To avoid stomach pain at night, it is recommended not to eat 3 hours before bedtime and raise the head of the bed so that your head is slightly higher than your stomach. Pain with achalasia goes away after vomiting, food entering the stomach, and taking antispasmodics.

Other reasons

Severe cramping pain may appear in the lower abdomen due to increased gas formation, causing stretching of the intestinal walls, nervous tension and stress, as well as due to disruption of peristaltic waves. During sleep, intestinal motor activity is reduced, as nervous stimulation decreases.

Therefore, in some diseases associated with the evacuation function of the intestines, symptoms may worsen at night. Signs of diseases caused by slower peristalsis are constipation, false urge to defecate, heaviness in the abdomen, lack of vitamins and microelements.

In the evening, the level of the adrenal cortex hormone (glucocorticoid), which suppresses the inflammatory process and the pain caused by it, reaches a minimum, so any discomfort associated with inflammation intensifies.

Often it is at night or at dawn that pain begins to bother you due to acute inflammation of the appendix. At first, the aching, dull pain has no clear localization and spreads throughout the abdomen, and then shifts to the right side under the ribs. The sensation intensifies when coughing, laughing, or moving.

The pain is so severe that the person takes a forced position; as a rule, if you lie on your right side, the symptom subsides somewhat. In addition to pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever may occur. Acute appendicitis develops quickly, and within three days the appendix may rupture and the contents may leak into the abdominal cavity.

A child may develop an abdominal migraine, which is characterized by pain in the area around the navel or in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, pallor, and circles under the eyes. The etiology of the disease is not fully understood; it is believed that it is psychogenic pain. In adults, the disease almost never occurs.

The question is often asked whether an inguinal hernia can cause stomach pain at night. Most likely, the pain is caused either by another pathology or a complication. Because inguinal or umbilical hernias begin to hurt with physical activity, straining, coughing, and they disappear when lying down.

Abdominal pain often appears at night due to poor diet

About 3-4 hours after eating, food enters the intestines, where it must be broken down into simpler compounds. If there are no enzymes, then the food ends up unchanged in the large intestine and a lot of gas is released during the process of decay.

If a person has an individual intolerance to certain products (for example, milk), then pain occurs three hours after consuming them. Intolerance can be congenital and appears in children at an early age, or acquired.

Discomfort may be felt after fatty, spicy, salty foods, and there is also rumbling in the stomach, increased gas formation, and a feeling of heaviness. Symptoms disappear after bowel movement.

In infants, abdominal pain may occur due to the transition to artificial feeding or adult food. This is due to the fact that the enzymes still have low activity and the necessary microflora is absent in the intestines.

If your stomach hurts at night, the cause may be endocrine disorders. Pregnant women often complain of pain due to hormonal changes. The “pregnancy hormone” (progesterone) relaxes smooth muscles, so intestinal motility is disrupted, and heartburn may occur due to reflux.

Abdominal pain can be caused by stretching of the ligaments that support the growing uterus and pressure from the fetus on the internal organs. Physiological pain in the abdomen during pregnancy is aching, drawing in nature.

How to eliminate pain

If pain at night occurs after a heavy dinner or drinking alcohol, then most likely the cause is indigestion. To help digestion, it is recommended to drink an enzymatic preparation that contains substances that stimulate the pancreas.

But if the pain is sharp, stabbing, then there is a possibility that pancreatitis has developed. To reduce the production of hydrochloric acid, proton pump inhibitors or H2-histamine receptors are prescribed. Antispasmodic drugs (No-Shpa, Drotoverine) will help eliminate the spasm.

Enterosorbents (activated carbon, Smecta) will remove toxins from the digestive tract. Foaming agents, for example, Espumisan, Simikol, will eliminate gases accumulated in the intestines. Prebiotics and probiotics, which are taken in courses of 3–4 weeks, can normalize digestive function.

If abdominal pain continues for more than an hour, this indicates serious pathological processes occurring in the stomach

Even if pain does not appear every night, you still should not put off visiting a doctor. It is prohibited to treat pain on your own, since some groups of drugs are aggressive to the gastrointestinal mucosa and taking them will only worsen the situation.

It is possible to find out the causes of severe night pain in the abdomen only after an examination, which begins with blood tests, ultrasound examination of the abdomen, X-ray with contrast, CT, MRI. It will not be possible to independently determine why your stomach hurts at night, since diseases of the digestive tract have a similar clinical picture (pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, fever, abnormal stool).

Description of the intensity and localization of discomfort is also not enough, since radiating pain may occur or pain in the duodenum may be perceived as stomach pain. That is why, if your stomach hurts at night, you should consult a doctor.

Timely diagnosis will stop the development and avoid complications of the pathology. The doctor will not only prescribe medications that can eliminate the disease or prolong remission, but will also tell you what to do to avoid relapses.

Let's figure out why your stomach may hurt at night and what to do about it?

Night abdominal pain is one of the most common complaints when visiting a gastroenterologist. The intensity and localization of pain may vary, depending on the existing pathology.

If you notice that your stomach often hurts at night, you should definitely consult a doctor, because this could be a sign of dangerous diseases.

Possible reasons

Abdominal pain at night can be divided into 2 types. The first type is colic. These sensations can occur suddenly with varying frequency and intensity. They are usually accompanied by intestinal deformities. If the pain is sharp and severe, you need to call an ambulance.

The second type is constant, dragging and debilitating. Most often, such sensations are observed in cases of serious inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Gastritis

Gastritis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the gastric mucosa. With chronic gastritis, the pain has a dull, nagging character, and with exacerbation the pain becomes sharp, stabbing. The pain is localized in the upper abdomen, and most often the discomfort occurs after eating and subsides at night. Additional symptoms of gastritis are:

• No appetite;
• involuntary belching of air;
• Nausea, sometimes with vomiting.

If gastritis is suspected, you should contact a gastroenterologist to confirm the diagnosis and prescribe therapy. The most effective method for diagnosing gastritis is gastroscopy.

Stomach ulcer

Gastric ulcer is a chronic pathology in which ulcerative lesions of the gastric mucosa are observed. The most common causative agent of the disease is Helicobacter pylori. Pain with a stomach ulcer is stable, aching in nature.

Pain occurs in the upper abdomen, mainly at night, in stressful situations and between meals.

After eating, the pain may return, but if the ulcer is located on the duodenum, eating, on the contrary, alleviates the condition. Additional symptoms of a stomach ulcer include:

If you have these symptoms, you should seek help from a gastroenterologist. Diagnosis of gastric ulcer includes interviewing the patient, external examination with palpation, blood test, pH measurement, FGDS. Treatment of the disease consists of taking medications and following a diet.

GERD is a common disease of the stomach, which is accompanied by regular reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. As a result, damage occurs to the mucous membranes of the esophagus and neighboring organs. Pain with GERD is often felt behind the sternum; it resembles the painful symptom of a heart attack and angina. Symptoms worsen after eating, physical activity, and at night. Associated symptoms are:

• Heartburn;
• sour belching;
• discomfort when swallowing food;
• difficulty swallowing.

Diagnosis of GERD includes a set of studies:

• Muscle and joint pain;
• skin rashes;
• signs of anemia;
• weight change;
• sleep disturbance;
• chronic fatigue;
• decreased immunity.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The pain most often occurs at night or in the early morning hours. Localization of pain first around the navel, later on the right side of the abdomen. The pain is growing, intensifies with movement and coughing. As inflammation develops, the following symptoms appear:

The pain in this form is dull, aching, and there are no accompanying symptoms. If you suspect appendicitis, you should call an ambulance.

Diagnosis of the disease can be carried out by an emergency physician. The diagnosis is made if the patient's pain increases sharply when the doctor gently presses on the abdomen and sharply raises his hand. If in doubt, the patient can undergo an ultrasound and CT scan. Treatment is always surgical.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a collection of symptoms of intestinal dysfunction. The pain in this disease can be either dull or sharp. Unpleasant sensations worsen after eating and nervous experiences. The disease is considered incurable, treatment is symptomatic. Signs of IBS are:

• Stomach ache;
• bowel dysfunction;
• flatulence;
• feeling of not having a bowel movement after going to the toilet;
• mucus secretion;
• ineffective urge to go to the toilet.

If you suspect IBS, visit a general practitioner or gastroenterologist. Diagnosis of the deviation is based on the exclusion of other pathologies with similar symptoms. Treatment is aimed at improving bowel function and relieving the main symptoms.

Slow intestinal motility

Intestinal atony develops against the background of weakening of the muscles of the intestinal tract. The disease is accompanied by constipation, which causes a feeling of discomfort and cramping attacks in the abdomen. The localization of pain depends on the location of the accumulation of feces. Associated symptoms are:

• Constipation;
• ineffective urge to go to the toilet;
• heaviness in the stomach;
• anemia and vitamin deficiency.

This disease is treated by a gastroenterologist. Diagnostics includes laboratory tests for dysbacteriosis and coprogram. Additionally, an analysis of thyroid hormones is carried out to exclude hypothyroidism.

Nephropathy

Nephropathy is a kidney disease in which the parenchyma and glomerular apparatus are damaged. Abdominal pain with this disease can be either nagging or acute. Localization can be encircling or on the side with a return to the back; it is observed for more than one day. Associated symptoms include:

• Constant thirst;
• sweating;
• urinary incontinence;
• signs of intoxication;
• swelling of the eyelids;
• disturbances in the functioning of the heart.

If you suspect kidney disease, you should contact your physician, who will give you a referral for tests. After this, the treatment will be carried out by a nephrologist. Diagnosis of nephropathy consists of evaluating urine and blood tests, and ultrasound of the kidneys.

Inflammation of the bronchi or lungs

Inflammatory processes in the bronchi or lungs are not always characterized by pain in these organs. Sometimes pain may be felt in the abdomen or around the heart. Pain in the abdomen or side may be acute, indicating inflammation of the lower parts of the lungs or bronchi. This pain can be distinguished by the accompanying symptoms:

Diseases of the lungs and bronchi are treated by a general practitioner, pulmonologist, and oncologist. Diagnosis is carried out using external examination, listening to breathing, tests and x-rays.

Infected kidneys and bladder

Infectious diseases of the bladder and kidneys often manifest as abdominal pain at night or during the day. Inflammation is characterized by pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes the pain radiates to the back. With urolithiasis, pain intensifies at night. The nature of the pain is sharp, cutting. Symptoms by which inflammation of the bladder and kidneys can be recognized:

• Pain when urinating;
• frequent urge to go to the toilet;
• urination is difficult.

To make a primary diagnosis, you need to contact a therapist, who will give a referral to a specialist. Diagnosis consists of interviewing the patient, examination, evaluation of urine and blood tests, and ultrasound. Treatment depends on the form and stage of the disease.

Bronchitis, sore throat or acute respiratory infection

With a sore throat, acute respiratory infections or bronchitis, night pain in the abdomen may also bother you. The pain is acute without a specific localization. These sensations are associated with enlarged abdominal lymph nodes. The pain intensifies when coughing and may persist for several days. Associated symptoms:

• Increased body temperature;
• cough;
• fever;
• inflammation of the tonsils, etc.

If you have these symptoms, you should consult a therapist. The diagnosis is made after examining the patient, evaluating biochemical tests, and hardware diagnostics.

Physiological intolerance to certain foods

Often, abdominal pain at night is associated precisely with poor nutrition. Pain occurs 3 hours after the last meal. The location may vary, but most often it is the area around the navel. The stomach can also hurt from unbalanced food, when it is difficult for the stomach to digest it. This could be fatty foods, salty or spicy foods. Associated symptoms:

The pain goes away after a bowel movement. To improve digestion, it is recommended to balance your diet. You need to see a therapist, gastroenterologist, or nutritionist.

Increased acidity of gastric contents

Pain can occur at any time of the day. Its intensity can vary from stretching and tingling to acute attacks. Localization - stomach area. Additional symptoms:

Diagnosis consists of determining the cause of the deviation, most often it is gastritis. Treatment depends on the root cause and necessarily includes diet.

In what case should you see a doctor immediately?

• The pain is severe;
• the pain does not subside within 2 hours;
• the pain increases;
• Dangerous symptoms appear (temperature, fever, weakness, sweating, etc.).

First aid, how to relieve pain?

Before relieving pain, you need to accurately determine the cause of the discomfort. Doctors advise not to self-medicate, but to call a doctor. Only after diagnosis will a specialist be able to prescribe adequate therapy. If the pain is not severe, you can take medications that relieve spasms, but it is better to avoid painkillers. Going to the toilet can also help.

Prevention

Most often, abdominal pain occurs from poor nutrition. It can be a harbinger of the development of pathology or its symptom.

Be sure to watch the next video

Conclusion on the topic

Why does abdominal pain occur at night? Unpleasant sensations never come without a reason. It is at night that the human body relaxes, and we can feel that the gastrointestinal tract organs are under special stress.

• Stomach ache
• smell from the mouth
• heartburn
• diarrhea
• constipation
• belching
• increased gas formation (flatulence)

If you have at least 2 of these symptoms, then this indicates developing gastritis or an ulcer. These diseases are dangerous due to the development of serious complications (penetration, gastric bleeding, etc.), many of which can be FATAL. Treatment needs to start now. Read the article about how a woman got rid of these symptoms by defeating their root cause using a natural method. Read the material.

Why does my stomach hurt at night?

The manifestation of discomfort, when the stomach hurts at night simply unbearably, there is no way to sleep - these are the most common complaints when visiting a gastroenterologist. Typically, the localization of the pain syndrome can be very different, depending on the etiology and intensity of the processes.

Anyone who has had to deal with pain in the digestive tract knows how painful they can be and how much trouble they cause the patient. If you have encountered such a phenomenon as abdominal pain, which is especially active at night, you need to know what could be the cause to its occurrence and how to anticipate the development of such a serious range of diseases.

Features of night pain

Discomfort during night sleep leads to a disorder in the sleep structure, insomnia and the appearance of a significant imbalance in the functions of the central nervous system. Along with symptomatic pathologies of the digestive tract, painful sensations usually occur:

In children during childhood and adolescence, night pain is a consequence of hostile relationships at school or another educational institution. A conflict situation with classmates or teachers is a significant factor of a neurotic nature, provoking very serious abdominal pain in the early morning hours before the start of the school day.

Particular attention should be paid to identifying the location of the most severe pain, as well as its strength, nature and intensity. It must be borne in mind that usually the so-called “fetal” position brings quite a lot of relief, despite its inconvenience in this situation. Night pain can manifest itself in a dagger-like, almost unbearable form, dull or sluggish aching, and colic also appears. Typically, colic is considered the very first sign of indigestion or weakness of intestinal evacuation functions. But this is one of the components of a symptom complex of other, more serious pathologies. The most dangerous sign can be called dagger pain. This is the most reliable and clinically clear sign of catastrophic phenomena, which are an acute attack of appendicitis, an inflammatory process of the peritoneum - peritonitis, and gastric ulcers.

Despite the fact that self-medication is strictly contraindicated in any case, in this case it is necessary to urgently call an ambulance and apply a bubble with ice chips to the stomach before it arrives.

Types of abdominal pain

By studying the characteristics of the types of manifestations of abdominal pain at night, it is quite easy to make a preliminary diagnosis of a particular pathology. By separating the two most common types of pain syndrome, when collecting an anamnesis, the doctor suggests checking the body for the presence of pathological processes. Clinicians and practitioners identify the two most common types of pain:

1. Spasmodic or cramping pains called colic. Characterized by the presence of wave-like attacks of varying intensity. Occurs after an increase in intestinal activity, such as compression or stretching, excess formation and accumulation of gases, infectious inflammation or stress.
2. Persistent constant abdominal pain, characterized by relatively stable and constant manifestations. Night pains are varied. Burning, stinging, acute or hungry - they quite clearly indicate ulcerative lesions, abscesses and other dangerous inflammatory processes of the abdominal systems, attacks of gallstone disease or acute pancreatitis.

Therefore, it is quite problematic to speak unambiguously about a particular disease based on the type of pain syndrome alone. It is important to carefully study other symptoms, which in practical medicine are called accompanying symptoms. They are still identified and systematized by a specialist.

Features of accompanying symptoms

Symptoms that usually accompany abdominal pain at night can range from discomfort to bowel dysfunction. Why did the clinical picture of this phenomenon acquire the name of accompanying syndrome? This is due to the fact that the most active development of a particular pathology of the digestive organs manifests itself quite quickly and, as a rule, it is impossible not to notice it literally in the early stages of development.

Night pain in the intestines or stomach occurs against the background of the following accompanying symptoms and external signs. They may be:

• attacks of nausea and vomiting;
• mid-stage sweating;
• rumbling in the intestines, activated when changing posture or taking a horizontal position;
• inflammatory and infectious processes lead to chills and cold sweat;
• unnatural color of discharge;
• pain changes character and can become intense with a convulsive component.

The main causes of nighttime abdominal pain

The painful sensations may not last long – up to a couple of minutes. These spasms are usually not a cause for concern. But hours and whole nights in the claws of tearing or aching pain can rightfully be called serious signs and signals for an early visit to a medical facility and examination. Despite the fact that these signs can appear at completely different times, they become most stable at nightfall, when the body relaxes and the nervous system requires some rest. At such a time, the autonomic nervous system comes into action, which is characterized by the manifestation of all the most significant symptomatic pathologies. Considering a variety of causes of abdominal pain at night, clinicians identify the following main and most important:

1. The appearance of abdominal pain that forces you to wake up can occur on an empty stomach due to excessive production of gastric juice.
2. Painful cramps immediately after eating, when indigestion occurs due to an imbalance in the acid-base balance.
3. Due to insufficient bowel movements or immediately after defecation.
4. A consequence of irritable bowel syndrome, possibly with biliary dyskinesia.
5. Eating unbalanced food. This could be salty, excessively hot or cold food.
6. Dishes made from foods rich in cholesterol, which provokes the formation and active movement of gallstones.
7. Physiological intolerance to certain products: milk, lactose and other dairy products.

Determination of the main causes can occur exclusively in a medical institution after carrying out diagnostic measures prescribed by the doctor.

You can also accept symptoms of diseases of other organs, including irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis, cholelithiasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Types of pain

There are several types of abdominal pain, each with different causes and characteristics.

Visceral pain

It is the result of activation of pain receptors in the internal organs themselves. The abdominal organs, including the stomach and intestines, are very sensitive to distension, inflammation, and ischemia, but are poorly sensitive to other stimuli such as dissection.

Visceral pain is diffuse and difficult to localize. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and emotional symptoms. Typically, visceral pain is dull and aching in nature.

Parietal pain

Many abdominal organs, including the stomach, are lined with mucous membrane (peritoneum), which has a large number of sensory nerve fibers, making it extremely sensitive to pain. This pain is called parietal.

It is very intense and easy to localize. A patient with this type of pain syndrome usually takes a forced position and tries to breathe shallowly, as this minimizes the movement of the abdominal muscles and diaphragm, which reduces friction of the peritoneum and helps relieve pain.

Psychogenic pain

Psychogenic pain (psychalgia) is physical pain caused by emotional or behavioral factors. One of the most common types of psychalgia is stomach pain.

Psychogenic pain sometimes develops in people with mental illness, but most often it occurs after emotional events - being fired from a job, unrequited love, sadness. It can be very varied in nature and be accompanied by many other symptoms. With psychalgia, there are no signs of organic organ damage.

Neurogenic pain

This is a severe, chronic pain syndrome that is usually associated with tissue and nerve damage. This nerve damage causes the wrong impulses to be sent to the pain centers. The causes of neurogenic pain can be alcoholism, chemotherapy, multiple sclerosis, diabetes mellitus, HIV. As a rule, it is manifested by a feeling of burning, tingling and numbness.

Symptoms

Stomach pain is located in the left hypochondrium or epigastric region. Changing the position of the organ and stretching it with food or drinks can slightly shift the location. However, other abdominal organs are also located in this area, including the left kidney, spleen, pancreas, and intestines. Therefore, it is sometimes difficult to understand whether the source of pain is the stomach or another organ.

The nature of stomach pain at night depends on the reason for which it is caused. It can be sharp or dull, burning or aching, constant or periodic, pulling, spastic.

Nighttime abdominal pain must be correlated with other symptoms to identify a possible cause. Associated clinical manifestations may include vomiting, loss of appetite, and hiccups.

Causes

There are many reasons that cause stomach pain to occur or worsen at night. In some cases, this behavior of the pain syndrome may be associated with the time of day, in others - with body position, lifestyle and dietary factors. Regardless of the location and time of pain, it is a symptom of some underlying disease. It is this cause that needs to be identified and treated.

Most causes of nighttime stomach pain are related to the digestive system. The abdominal cavity contains many organs, the position and functioning of which can change with different body positions and at different times of the day. This feature underlies the occurrence or intensification of pain at night. Understanding the relationship between these factors is important to diagnose the possible cause and take steps to reduce pain.

The occurrence of night pain in the stomach contributes to:

• Increased gastric contents. The amount of stomach acid increases in the early morning, so diseases that are caused by high acidity may cause more intense symptoms at night.
• Lying position. During sleep, it can help change the position of the abdominal organs, including the stomach, which were lowered down by gravity during the day. Diseases that worsen as organs move upward may cause night pain.
• Slow motion. At night, intestinal motor activity is slowed down, since at this time the nervous stimulation of its muscles is reduced. It can also cause symptoms of some digestive tract diseases to worsen while you sleep.

The three most common causes of stomach pain that gets worse at night are:

• Gastritis. This is a very common disease of the stomach, in which its walls become inflamed. Most often, its occurrence is associated with the presence of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori or excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. With gastritis, there is a typical aching pain in the abdomen, which is combined with other signs of indigestion. Symptoms of the disease worsen on an empty stomach and at night.
• Stomach ulcer. Another common disease in which a wound forms in the wall of the stomach. This disease can be a complication of long-term and severe inflammation of the mucous membrane; it has the same causes as gastritis. The symptoms of ulcers are very similar to those of gastritis.
• Gastroesophageal gastric disease (GERD). This is a disease of the esophagus, which is caused by inflammation of its mucous membrane, resulting from the entry of stomach acid into it. GERD is most often caused by a weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle that normally prevents stomach contents from entering the esophagus. Typical symptoms are heartburn, nausea and belching. The deterioration of the condition at night is facilitated by a lying position and a decrease in sphincter tone in a sleeping state.

Other diseases in which the stomach in the stomach area may also begin to hurt at night:

• Diaphragmatic hernia. A disease in which part of the stomach or intestines penetrates through the esophageal opening in the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Symptoms of a diaphragmatic hernia worsen when lying down.
• Abdominal migraine. A disease that is most often observed in children. Abdominal pain occurs for no apparent reason and gets worse at night. The occurrence of this disease is associated with hereditary causes.

Diagnostics

To identify the cause of stomach pain at night, you need to see a doctor.

He will most likely prescribe an additional examination, which may include the following methods:

• Tests for the detection of Helicobacter pylori- bacteria that cause most cases of gastritis and peptic ulcers.
• Endoscopy– examination of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum using a flexible instrument (endoscope). During the procedure, the doctor can detect signs of an inflammatory process and take a piece of tissue from the pathological focus for further laboratory study.
• X-ray of the esophagus and stomach with barium contrast. The patient swallows a liquid containing barium, which coats the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract from the inside. An X-ray examination is then performed, which allows doctors to evaluate the condition of the esophagus and stomach.

Treatment

Therapy for stomach pain at night depends entirely on what is causing it.

For example:

• For GERD, treatment includes lifestyle changes, antacids and medications that reduce stomach acid production.
• For gastritis and ulcers, treatment is aimed at eliminating the etiological factor. If these diseases are caused by Helicobacter pylori, its eradication is carried out. If the inflammatory process develops during treatment with NSAIDs, it is necessary to stop taking them.

Night stomach pain is a common complaint of patients suffering from diseases of the digestive tract. For successful treatment, it is necessary to identify and eliminate their cause.

Useful video about accompanying symptoms of stomach diseases

Sudden abdominal pain, especially at night, can be frightening. The person does not know what to do and begins to panic, which makes the situation even worse. Should not be doing that!

The first thing to do if your stomach hurts at night is calm down. And in order to know what to do in such cases, you should arm yourself with knowledge. Let's look at the possible causes of such pain and the actions that need to be taken.

Causes of nighttime stomach pain may be of different nature.

They depend on the exact location, nature, duration and other characteristics of the sensations. The cause may be inflammatory processes, hormonal imbalances, disturbances in gastric and intestinal motility, urinary tract diseases, stressful situations and poor nutrition.

There are many factors.

Let's look at the most common ones.

Gastritis

An inflammatory process of the gastric mucosa caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria, or long-term use of antibiotics and NSAIDs.

Characterized by sharp, severe pain in the stomach area. Occurs at night, during the day, after eating. The sensations intensify during hunger.

Accompanied the following additional symptoms: nausea, vomiting, abnormal stool, heaviness in the stomach (especially after eating).

If you experience the above symptoms, do not hesitate.

You need to urgently consult a gastroenterologist.

Diagnosis is carried out by collecting anamnesis and examination (palpation of the stomach area). Next, tests are prescribed: pH-metry, general blood and urine analysis, test for the presence of bacteria that cause gastritis, ultrasound.

Based on the data obtained, treatment is prescribed, which depends on the form of the disease. If an acute form is observed, it consists of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. In case of severe pain, analgesics are included. Additionally, the patient is prescribed enveloping agents that reduce the aggressive effect of gastric juice (for example, Almagel). If a chronic form is observed, treatment is supplemented with drugs that regulate the secretion of gastric juice.

Any form of gastritis requires following the diet prescribed by the doctor.

Its implementation is mandatory.

Ulcer

A stomach or intestinal ulcer occurs due to exposure to the same bacteria as gastritis ( Helicobacter pylori). It causes inflammation (gastritis), which can then trigger the formation of trophic disorders. Ulcers are formed due to the harmful effects of gastric juice on the walls of the stomach.

By the same principle, a duodenal ulcer is formed: the balance between the protective layer and the aggressive environment is disrupted. As a result, hydrochloric acid acts destructively on the walls of the organ and provokes the formation of ulcers.

The disease is chronic and is characterized by the presence of an exacerbation and remission phase.

If left untreated, gastritis can cause stomach ulcers.

Pain occurs in the upper abdomen and intensifies after physical activity, eating spicy or fried foods, or alcohol.

With an intestinal ulcer, on the contrary, pain occurs in a hungry state. Eating usually weakens them.

Additionally, the disease is accompanied by loss of appetite, heartburn and nausea, belching (which leaves a bitter or sour taste in the mouth), and bowel dysfunction. After eating, there is a feeling of heaviness.

For these symptoms you need immediately consult a gastroenterologist.

For diagnosis, general urine and blood tests are prescribed. Next, the patient needs to donate stool for occult blood and have an ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract. After these tests, FEGDS (examination of the gastric mucosa using a tube with a camera at the end) and ph-metry are prescribed. If necessary, special tests are carried out for the presence of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

Treatment includes antibacterial therapy (tetracycline, penicillin, nitromidazole, etc.); agents that can increase the protective properties of the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum (Sucralfate, De-Nol, Enprostil, etc.) For complete treatment, antisecretory agents are used (Misoprostol, Almagel, Pirenzepine). Also, the patient must adhere to a diet. In cases where the disease cannot be treated with medication, surgery is necessary.

Treatment is prescribed only by the attending physician.

It is impossible to eliminate a stomach ulcer on your own!

GERD

Inflammation of the esophageal mucosa, resulting from the release of stomach contents into it.

The main indicator of the disease is heartburn - a burning pain behind the chest. It can also be in the throat area and leave a sour taste in the mouth.

May additionally be accompanied by a dry cough, vomiting, nausea, sore throat, burning sensation and chest pain.

A gastroenterologist treats this problem.

For diagnosis, he prescribes performing fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy(examination of the esophagus using an endoscope), pH-metry, esophageal manometry and general blood and urine tests.

After conclusion, treatment is prescribed, consisting of drug therapy and diet. Typically, therapy includes drugs that promote rapid removal of food from the stomach (metoclopramide) and reduce acid secretion (pantoprazole, omeprazole).

Frequent manifestations of heartburn and chest pain may indicate the presence of GERD

Diaphragmatic hernia

Another reason why it may happen that your stomach hurts at night may be a hernia of the diaphragm. This is a disease in which, through a hole in the diaphragm, not only the esophagus, but also part of the stomach or part of the esophagus, which should be in the stomach, enters the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.

The main symptom is the appearance of belching and pain in the sternum, intensifying in the evening and after eating. This is justified by the fact that this pathology is the cause of gastroesophageal reflux (or GERD, described above).

Localization of pain is in the lower region of the sternum.

They can radiate to the upper part, shoulder blade, neck. Sometimes the pain resembles the sensations of angina pectoris.

Additional symptoms that can help distinguish diseases: a feeling of a lump in the upper abdominal cavity, bloating. They appear against the background of the main indicators.

X-rays using barium contrast are used for diagnosis. Additionally, esophagogasroscopy may be prescribed.

Treatment is carried out by a gastroenterologist and surgeon.

From the gastroenterology side, the prescription of H2-blockers (Famotidine), antacids (Almagel), prokinetics (Metoclopramide and its derivatives) is required. It is also necessary to follow a diet that includes fractional meals.

On the surgical side, a prescription for physical therapy and, if necessary, surgical intervention are required.

Abdominal migraine

Rare disease, occurring predominantly in children. It is characterized by the sudden onset of sharp pain, usually in the evening. The sensations can be both strong and mild, their duration ranges from several minutes to 2 hours.

Symptoms: the main symptom is the sudden appearance of causeless abdominal pain localized around the navel.

Additionally may be accompanied bloating, flatulence, nausea, stool disorders.

The disease is diagnosed by a therapist. His task is to collect anamnesis (including family history), conduct general tests in order to exclude primary pathology. The main sign that helps identify the disease is age (occurs in children and adolescents) and previously identified similar symptoms in the patient’s relatives.

Since the disease is genetic and cannot be eliminated, treatment is limited to eliminating the primary symptoms. For this purpose, mild sedatives and analgesics are used.

Also, the patient should be provided with rest, reduce activity and stress during the attack and for some time after it.

Neurological disorders

If your stomach hurts at night, the cause may lie in our neurological system. Nervous disorders and stress lead to stomach pain, which intensifies as night approaches.

This can be explained by the fact that during this period the integrity of the protective lining of the stomach is compromised, blood circulation is disrupted, which provokes severe pain in the abdominal area.

There is also a theory that the stomach and brain share common neural connections and neurological pathways. And during stressful situations, these organs receive the same signal (there is a headache and at the same time a stomach ache).

Therapy consists of symptomatic treatment: ensuring rest, taking painkillers and sedatives. If these symptoms recur frequently, you should consult a doctor.

Otherwise, this is fraught with the development of neurological gastritis, gastroduodenitis, ulcers and other gastrointestinal diseases.

Cholelithiasis

Another reason why your stomach hurts at night may be cholelithiasis. It is characterized formation of stones in the gall bladder and bile ducts. Caused due to metabolic disorders in the body.

The disease may be accompanied by symptoms of hepatic colic, characterized by acute pain in the upper abdomen.

The stomach itself can hurt only as a complication due to inflammation of the pancreas.

Diagnosis of cholelithiasis is carried out by a gastroenterologist or endoscopist.

To identify the disease, anamnesis, general tests, ultrasound, and CT scans of the abdominal organs are used.

To identify the condition of the stomach in this case, endoscopy with biopsy is used.

Treatment of gallstone disease includes medications containing acid to remove stones, ultrasound with magnetic radiation to crush stones, and water therapy.

In this case, anti-inflammatory and painkillers are used to treat stomach pain.

Intestinal infections

This term refers to a set of manifestations of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract as a result of various bacteria entering the body. Mainly found in summer.

The first symptoms are nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, which may worsen in the evening or appear at night.

If these symptoms occur, you should consult a physician. But the best option would be to call an ambulance.

Diagnosis is carried out by collecting anamnesis and prescribing general blood and urine tests.

Treatment includes drinking plenty of fluids, taking antibiotics and sorbents.

Intestinal infections are a dangerous disease that can lead to death in a short time.

You should not ignore their symptoms and self-medicate.

Acute pancreatitis

A disease caused by inflammation of the pancreas tissue.

Characterized by strong sharp pain in the hypochondrium on the right or left side, the pain may also have a girdling appearance. The sensations occur at night and after eating spicy or fatty foods.

Accompanied by additional symptoms: lack of appetite, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract in general, weight loss.

Diagnosis is carried out using ultrasound of OBP, MRI and clinical tests.

Treatment includes antibiotic therapy, detoxification, and often novocaine blockade. In later stages, surgery is required.

All patients with acute pancreatitis require hospitalization.

Endocrine disorders

The next reason why your stomach hurts at night may be functional disorders of the stomach or intestines due to endocrine disruption.

The most common endocrine changes occur in people with diabetes and during pregnancy.

Symptoms related to poor gastrointestinal function (nausea, vomiting, bowel dysfunction) occur against a background of general malaise, signs of diabetes or pregnancy. Severe pain may occur at night.

Therapy is prescribed in combination with treatment of the underlying disease, by a doctor who treats the main source of the disease.

If your stomach hurts in the evening

Some diseases can provoke pain not only at night, but also in the evening. Pancreatitis often causes pain as evening approaches, which can also occur at night.

Also, the pain syndrome with gastric dyskinesia intensifies in the evening. In general, any disruption of the gastrointestinal tract can cause discomfort at any time of the day.

It has been proven that a person’s general condition worsens as evening approaches, and signs of disease become more obvious.

Other reasons

In addition to the above reasons for stomach pain at night, others can cause such pain, including:

• the presence of polyps or tumors;
• spastic contractions;
• food poisoning;
• increased acidity level;
• violation of the motor function of the organ;

Pain from mechanical damage to the lower ribs sometimes radiates to the upper peritoneum.

In general, even a poor quality diet can also cause stomach pain at night.

In what case should you see a doctor immediately?

Regardless of why your stomach hurts, it is advisable to consult a doctor. However, there are cases when you can cope without resorting to professional help. When the manifestation of belching, flatulence and mild pain occurs sporadically or extremely rarely, the body can independently cope with these manifestations.

When the pain is prolonged or recurs frequently, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Emergency help

If this is the first attack, which is characterized by mild pain, or it occurs extremely rarely, you can take rescue measures yourself.

The patient definitely needs to be given rest and be guided by the type of pain manifestations.

The following medications will help get rid of heartburn: Rennie, Pechaevsky tablets, Almagel, etc. If you don’t have medications on hand, you can use soda. You need to dissolve half a teaspoon in a glass of water and drink.

If the pain occurs suddenly and for the first time (mild manifestation), take Metoclopramide or its derivative, an anesthetic.

Then put the patient to bed. If the pain does not stop, you need to call an ambulance.

Don't wait until she becomes unbearable!

Prevention

To prevent nighttime stomach pain and gastrointestinal problems in general, you should adhere to proper nutrition. It is not recommended to eat highly fatty or spicy foods (extremely rare). Alcohol also affects the functioning of the stomach. Be careful with him!

The next rule is that physical activity is mandatory.

Do warm-up exercises that massage your internal organs; walk daily; keep an even posture (curvature can compress the digestive organs).

Conclusion

Night pain in the stomach can be caused by both serious disorders and minor disruptions in the gastrointestinal tract.

In any case, you should consult a doctor and do not self-medicate.

When your stomach starts to hurt, especially at night, you should immediately consult a gastroenterologist. This is important! Night pain can be a symptom of such serious diseases as gastric or duodenal ulcers, pancreatitis, abscess, and cholelithiasis. Therefore, when such a pathology occurs, especially repeatedly, a full examination is necessary.

Causes and characteristics of nighttime discomfort

It occurs when it pathologically contracts or stretches, it produces too much juice (the hydrochloric acid contained in the juice irritates the walls of the stomach). The reasons for this are the following factors:

• inflammation (including due to the development of intestinal infection);
• excess gases;
• rapid contraction of the walls of the esophagus;
• nervous state of a person.

Main types of pain:

• visceral – nerve endings on the walls of the abdominal cavity are irritated;
• parietal – the peritoneum is irritated;
• psychogenic – reaction to stress;
• neurogenic – the result of neurological diseases.

Painful sensations vary widely in nature: they can be aching, pulsating, shooting, burning, cutting, etc., and may be accompanied by a feeling of hunger or nausea, flatulence, fever, increased sweating, change in the color of stool - urine becomes darker and feces lighter.

Such symptoms indicate pathological processes in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, liver, and biliary tract. If such stomach pains appear at night, and their causes have not yet been clarified, you need to give yourself first aid, and in the morning go to the hospital or call a doctor.

However, if the stool becomes dark, almost black, it means internal bleeding has occurred and an ambulance must be called.

The location of night pain also matters: if it appears in the upper abdomen, it means that it is a stomach or duodenal ulcer, or there is a pathology of the liver or pancreas. Pain in the left hypochondrium, especially if it seems like you want to eat, indicates gastritis.

In some cases, pregnancy is the cause of nighttime discomfort. In the first trimester, the stomach hurts due to toxicosis and changes in hormonal levels; in the second and third, the enlarged uterus puts pressure on the internal organs, including the abdominal cavity.

One of the main signs of serious stomach problems is relief when a person takes a particular position. However, then the unpleasant sensations return.

If such night pain is short-lived, occurs rarely and irregularly, then most likely it is due to poor diet - eating too fatty, spicy, salty or hot foods. In this case, you just need to reconsider your diet.

With serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and biliary system, the stomach may begin to hurt not only at night, but also in the evening and at other times of the day.

First aid

Since the pain usually occurs in the middle of the night, a visit to the doctor has to be postponed until the morning (unless the case is an emergency). But it needs to be removed. Until a diagnosis has been made, there is no need to take medications; it is better to drink a weak, warm (not hot!) mint decoction. Cold water can help (even with ice, only after a few sips you should listen to your feelings - is it getting worse).

Since pain is often similar to hunger, it seems that if you eat something it will be easier. In fact, you need to abstain from food for the next few hours, drinking only tea or water in small quantities.

Sometimes the pain goes away after using a warm heating pad or a heated piece of cloth (after application, you also need to evaluate your condition). Lying down with your legs thrown up (put a blanket and rug under them) can ease suffering. Real treatment should begin only after examination by a gastroenterologist and diagnosis.

Diagnosis and treatment

Night pain in the stomach and the causes of this pathology is a serious problem, so it needs to be solved without delay. Usually, during an examination, the doctor collects an anamnesis (asks about lifestyle, diet, whether there has been any severe stress recently, etc.), palpates the abdomen and prescribes fibrogastroduodenoscopy (FGDS).

The study consists of the patient lying on his left side, receiving anesthesia, the gastroenterologist inserts a special device (fibrogastroscope) into his throat and examines the gastrointestinal tract using a built-in video camera. Today this is the most informative type of diagnosis of diseases of the stomach, intestines and esophagus. The doctor may also order a biopsy to find out if there are any cancerous tumors.

Such pathologies are treated primarily with medication. The patient is prescribed antispasmodics (it is very important to relieve spasms), analgesics to relieve pain, stabilizers for various gastric functions (motor and secretory), and antibiotics for infections. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate; you must take only those medications prescribed by the doctor and follow the dosage regimen.

If you have doubts about the effectiveness of treatment, it is better to consult with 2-3 doctors. Medicines and their regimen are prescribed depending not only on the disease, but also on the duration and intensity of pain attacks and the individual characteristics of the patient’s body.

Proper nutrition for stomach diseases

In parallel with treatment, you should follow a diet, otherwise the medications will not have an effect. For different diseases, different foods are prescribed, but the general principles boil down to the fact that food should be as gentle as possible on the stomach. They mainly recommend cereal and vegetable soups, semi-liquid porridges, weakly brewed herbal tea, regular boiled water, as well as special mineral water without gas.

Everything fatty, smoked, salted, spicy, carbonated drinks, alcohol, canned food, as well as plant foods containing coarse fiber (radish, turnip, beans), fruits and berries with rough skin (gooseberries, grapes), wholemeal bread are prohibited. grinding, fatty meat and fish.

Dietary dishes should be steamed or boiled. Regarding nutrition in each specific case, you should consult your doctor.

Rules for organizing food intake during illness:

• food should be at room temperature;
• you need to eat fractionally - in small portions 5-6 times a day, and try to do it at the same time;
• the consistency of the dishes should be puree;
• It is necessary to eat slowly and chew food especially carefully.

Additional Help

There is a list of traditional medicine that will help relieve stomach pain; they can also be taken in parallel with the main treatment:

• freshly squeezed cucumber juice: take 20 ml 3 times a day, you can add honey to taste;
• plantain juice: pour a standard glass and drink throughout the day;
• meadowsweet infusion: pour boiling water (one and a half glasses) over the dried flowers of this plant (volume - a tablespoon), let it brew (about 3 hours), drink a little all day;
• St. John's wort juice: take a little in the morning on an empty stomach;
• plantain leaves: chew for pain;
• honeysuckle infusion: pour boiling water over a tablespoon of chopped stems and leaves, leave for 35-40 minutes, drink 3 times a day;
• tea with mint and currants: mix green tea, currant leaves, fresh or dried mint, brew, drink as usual during meals;
• chamomile tea (can be bought at the pharmacy);
• white cabbage juice: mix with honey, take a little 3 times a day.

However, such drugs should not replace treatment prescribed by a doctor.

Prevention

To prevent stomach pain from appearing day or night, first of all you need to eat right. Even a healthy person should exclude fast food, carbonated and alcoholic drinks, canned food, fatty and spicy foods from their diet. Dry snacks are not advisable; you should try to arrange full meals for yourself. You also need to maintain a balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, eat more healthy foods: vegetables, fruits, honey and bee products. It is necessary to spend more time in the fresh air and move so that what you eat is better absorbed.

A serious gastrointestinal illness may begin with pain at night. To recover faster, you must immediately consult a doctor, undergo conscientious treatment and change your diet in favor of natural products.