What causes sudden stomach pain that wakes you up during sleep, and what should you do about it?

Waking up suddenly due to stomach pain during sleep may be related to improper posture, acute gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other causes. Treatment can include daily care and medication. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Improper posture

If body posture is incorrect during sleep, it may cause stomach acid or food to reflux into the esophagus or throat, leading to stomach pain and discomfort. This condition does not require special treatment; adjusting sleeping posture may help relieve symptoms.

2. Acute gastroenteritis

Acute gastroenteritis is a common gastrointestinal disorder in which inflammation of the gastric and intestinal mucosa can cause pain. Patients may take antispasmodic and analgesic medications such as atropine tablets or belladonna tablets as directed by a physician to improve symptoms.

3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

GERD refers to the reflux of stomach acid and gastric contents into the esophagus, causing damage and inflammation of the esophageal mucosa, resulting in symptoms such as stomach pain, acid regurgitation, and coughing. Patients may take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules or rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets as prescribed by a doctor.

In addition to the above common causes, stomach pain upon waking may also be associated with gastritis, gastric ulcers, or other conditions. If pain persists without improvement, timely medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended.