Abdominal pain after eating
Nov 04, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Abdominal pain after eating may be caused by non-disease factors such as overeating or consumption of irritating foods, which usually does not require specific intervention and tends to resolve with rest. Additionally, it could be related to medical conditions such as acute gastritis, acute peritonitis, or colon cancer. In such cases, timely completion of necessary diagnostic tests and early adherence to a physician's treatment plan are essential for targeted therapy.
Abdominal pain after eating may be caused by non-disease factors such as overeating or consuming irritating foods. This type of discomfort usually does not require specific intervention and tends to resolve on its own with rest. However, it could also be related to medical conditions such as acute gastritis, gastric ulcers, or irritable bowel syndrome. In such cases, timely completion of necessary examinations and early adherence to a physician's treatment plan are essential for targeted therapy.
I. Non-disease Factors
Abdominal pain after meals may result from overeating or consuming overly stimulating foods. This condition generally does not require special treatment and resolves spontaneously with rest. It is important to develop healthy eating habits in daily life.
II. Disease Factors
1. Acute Gastritis
Acute gastritis is an acute widespread or localized inflammation of the gastric mucosa caused by various external and internal factors. Abdominal pain after eating is one of the common symptoms of this condition. Patients may take medications such as norfloxacin, rebamipide tablets, or domperidone as directed by a physician to improve symptoms. Adequate rest and reduced physical activity are also recommended.
2. Gastric Ulcer
The main symptoms of gastric ulcers include upper abdominal pain and stomach discomfort after eating, or gastrointestinal discomfort following consumption of irritating foods. As prescribed by a doctor, patients may take antacids, anticholinergic drugs, and mucosal-protective agents such as sucralfate or bismuth compounds. A balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits to ensure sufficient vitamin intake is recommended.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that may also trigger abdominal pain after eating. Symptomatic treatment under medical guidance may include prokinetic agents such as cisapride, mosapride, or domperidone, which effectively enhance gastrointestinal motility, promote gas expulsion, and reduce bloating.
In addition, other conditions such as acute peritonitis, duodenal ulcers or inflammation, and acute pancreatitis may also cause postprandial abdominal pain. It is advisable to seek prompt medical attention for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent disease progression. Maintaining regular eating habits, avoiding high-fat and high-sugar foods, and minimizing intake of foods that stimulate gastric acid secretion are also important preventive measures.
