Nobody likes a disturbed sleep. We go to bed at night, hoping to rest and sleep peacefully. But what if we wake up due to agonizing stomach pain? Not only does it ruin your sleep, but it comes with discomfort throughout the night. You can stop waking up with stomach pain at night by identifying the cause. Continue reading to know seven possible causes of nighttime stomach pain.
What Causes Stomach Pain at Night?
Usually, stomach pain is a result of digestive issues. But sometimes, it can indicate other problems as well. Possible causes include:
1. Gas
You can feel a sharp pain in your stomach due to gas. Discomfort in the stomach is a symptom of gas, and it can have you howling in pain. Stabbing sensation in the stomach and upper abdomen can occur if you indulge in late-night snacking. Since digestion slows down at night, the food is not digested correctly.
2. Acid Reflux
Waking up with a burning sensation and nauseating stomach pain at night can seem really alarming. It is a result of stomach acids backing up into your esophagus and often brings:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Bloating
Food triggers like spicy food, obesity, consuming alcohol excessively, and lying down after eating are common causes. Thus, your nighttime stomach pain might be signifying acid reflux.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
When a group of intestinal symptoms occurs together, they are known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. This condition affects your digestive system and might cause stomach pain at night. Other than this, you will also experience:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
Therefore, cramping and unbearable abdominal pain can be a symptom of IBS. Moreover, waking up with stomach pain and gas can signify this condition too.
4. Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is definitely not a pleasant experience. It occurs when your digestive tract lining gets inflamed, causing weight loss and tiredness. In addition, you suffer from abdominal pain.
5. Constipation
Waste products can accumulate in your colon, leading to constipation. Consequently, you suffer stomach pain at night or anytime during the day. The build-up of waste products can put pressure on the colon and stretch it, which gives you unbearable abdominal pain.
6. Hiatal Hernia
A part of your stomach can pass into your chest cavity due to strain during a bowel movement or uncontrolled coughing. This condition is called hiatal hernia, usually caused by pressure in the abdominal area. Hiatal hernia is a possible culprit of stomach pain that wakes you up at night, as lying flat can increase this symptom.
7. Celiac Disease
Some people are allergic to gluten, barley, spelt, rye, and a protein in wheat. The allergic reaction to these food triggers can cause inflammation of the small intestine, and this condition is called celiac disease. As a result, cramping abdominal and nighttime stomach pain occurs. Therefore, celiac disease can be why your stomach hurts at night.
What Should I Do?
Stomach pain at night can cause discomfort and disturb your sleep. Hence, you should see a reputable doctor and consult them regarding your condition. Remember to tell them all the symptoms so they can treat them accordingly. Our credible and skilled team at Gastroenterology can help with your stomach pain and its causes. Visit us or dial (281) 357 1977 to schedule an appointment.