What causes lower abdominal pain after long-distance running, and what should be done about it?
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Abdominal pain after long-distance running may be caused by physiological reasons, gastrointestinal spasms, or appendicitis, and treatment should be based on the specific condition. When appendicitis occurs, the appendix lumen becomes obstructed, leading to severe lower abdominal pain after exercise. Timely medical attention is required, and laparoscopic appendectomy should be performed to treat the condition.
Lower abdominal pain after long-distance running may be caused by physiological factors, or it could result from pathological conditions such as gastrointestinal spasms or appendicitis. Treatment depends on the specific cause. Details are as follows:
1. Physiological Causes
If mouth breathing is used during running, excessive air may be swallowed, leading to gastrointestinal distension and lower abdominal pain. Adjusting the exercise method usually helps gradually relieve symptoms.
2. Pathological Causes
1) Gastrointestinal Spasms
If adequate warm-up exercises are not performed before running, blood flow is redirected to the limb muscles during exercise, which may cause abdominal muscle spasms and result in pain. Massaging the abdomen can help alleviate these symptoms.
2) Appendicitis
In cases of appendicitis, the appendix lumen becomes obstructed, causing severe lower abdominal pain after physical activity. Prompt medical attention is required, and treatment typically involves a laparoscopic appendectomy.
Additionally, lower abdominal pain could also be caused by other conditions such as enteritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or pancreatitis. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and appropriate treatment based on the specific condition.
