What Causes Stomach Pain?

Gastric pain is a syndrome name in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is commonly triggered by external pathogenic cold, dietary injury, emotional disturbances (e.g., stress or depression), or inherent weakness of the spleen and stomach. The stomach is the primary organ involved, yet its pathology is closely interrelated with that of the liver and spleen. Stagnation of stomach qi and failure of stomach qi to descend harmoniously constitute the principal pathogenic mechanism underlying gastric pain. So, what causes gastric pain? Below we address this question.

Causes of Gastric Pain

1. Spleen-Stomach Deficiency

Gastric pain may arise from deficiency of the spleen and stomach. In TCM theory, the spleen governs transformation and transportation—comprising two main functions: (i) transforming food and drink into essential nutrients (i.e., converting food and fluids into vital essences and distributing them throughout the body), and (ii) regulating fluid metabolism (i.e., absorbing, transporting, and dispersing body fluids). Common manifestations of spleen-stomach deficiency include gastric pain.

2. Improper Diet

Gastric pain may result from inappropriate dietary habits. For instance, excessive consumption of greasy foods can easily induce gastric pain, as such foods impair gastrointestinal digestion. Moreover, overconsumption of high-protein and high-fat foods alters intestinal microbiota composition, compromising the survival of beneficial probiotics and thereby contributing to gastric pain. Additionally, eating too rapidly or chewing inadequately hinders proper digestion and may likewise trigger gastric pain.

3. Irregular Daily Routine

Gastric pain may also stem from an irregular lifestyle. Prolonged states of either excessive hunger or overeating place undue strain on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially resulting in gastric pain. Furthermore, chronic psychological stress can similarly provoke gastric pain. Excessive stress disrupts normal gastrointestinal function—for example, by stimulating excess gastric acid secretion—which damages the gastric mucosa and accelerates gastrointestinal motility, ultimately leading to gastric pain.

4. Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastric pain may be caused by underlying gastrointestinal diseases. Common conditions include chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gastric ptosis. Other related disorders encompass duodenal ulcers, gastroduodenal composite ulcers, gastric polyps, and gastric calculi. Additionally, gastric mucosal prolapse, acute gastric dilatation, and pyloric obstruction are also classified as gastric disorders capable of inducing gastric pain.

The above outlines the primary causes of gastric pain. We hope this information proves helpful.