What is gastric pain? 

Gastric pain refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often originating from the stomach or surrounding structures. It is a broad term that encompasses various conditions affecting the digestive system, ranging from mild irritation to more serious underlying disorders. The pain can manifest as a dull ache, sharp stabbing sensation, burning discomfort, or cramping, depending on its cause and severity.

This type of abdominal discomfort is commonly linked to issues such as gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), peptic ulcers, acid reflux, or indigestion. In some cases, it may also be a symptom of more serious conditions like stomach infections, gallbladder disease, or even gastric cancer. The nature and frequency of gastric pain can vary; some individuals experience occasional discomfort triggered by diet or stress, while others suffer from persistent or recurrent pain requiring medical evaluation.

What causes gastric pain? 

Gastric pain arises from disruptions in the normal functioning of the stomach and upper digestive tract. The stomach produces gastric acid and digestive enzymes to break down food, while the mucosal lining protects the stomach walls from acid damage. When this balance is disturbed, irritation, inflammation, or structural damage can lead to pain. Common causes of gastric pain include the following: 

• Excessive stomach acid production — when acid levels exceed what the mucosal lining can withstand, it can erode the protective barrier. This leads to gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining. Prolonged acid exposure can cause ulcers, leading to a burning pain, especially on an empty stomach.

• Impaired gastric motility — when the stomach empties too slowly (gastroparesis), food stagnates, causing bloating, discomfort, and pain. Excessive contractions, seen in functional dyspepsia, can cause cramping and heightened stomach sensitivity.

• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) — in gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), a weakened lower oesophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus. This causes irritation and a burning sensation, extending from the stomach to the chest.

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection — infections such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) disrupt the stomach’s mucosal defences, leading to chronic inflammation. It increases susceptibility to acid-induced damage and ulcer formation.

• Biochemical imbalances and nerve dysfunction — hypersensitivity of gastric nerves can cause pain perception even without structural damage. This is commonly seen in functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Gastric pain can have multiple underlying causes, and identifying the specific trigger is essential for effective treatment. 

What are the symptoms of gastric pain? 

Gastric pain can manifest in various ways, depending on its underlying cause and severity. While the primary symptom is discomfort in the upper abdomen, it is often accompanied by other digestive disturbances that help in diagnosing the condition. 

• Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen
• Bloating and fullness after eating
• Acid reflux or heartburn, which often worsens when lying down
• Nausea or vomiting, sometimes with traces of blood in severe cases
• Loss of appetite or early satiety (feeling full too quickly)
• Excessive burping or regurgitation of stomach contents
• Unexplained weight loss, particularly in chronic conditions
• Dark, tarry stools, indicating possible gastrointestinal bleeding
• Pain that worsens on an empty stomach (common in ulcers) or after eating (common in gallstones)

If gastric pain is persistent, severe, or associated with alarming symptoms, medical evaluation is necessary to rule out serious conditions and initiate the right treatment. 

Who is at risk of gastric pain in Singapore? 

While gastric pain can affect anyone, certain groups are more prone to developing it due to lifestyle habits, underlying medical conditions, or environmental factors. In Singapore, where dietary patterns, stress levels, and bacterial infections play a significant role, recognising at-risk individuals can help with early prevention and timely treatment. 

• People with high-stress lifestyles — chronic stress can disrupt stomach function, which may increase acid production and gut sensitivity.

• Frequent consumers of spicy, oily, or acidic foods — local diets rich in chilli, fried foods, and coffee may contribute to acid reflux and gastritis.

• Individuals with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection — this common bacterial infection weakens the stomach lining and raises the risk of ulcers.

• Those who regularly take NSAIDs (painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin) — long-term use can irritate the stomach lining, leading to gastritis or ulcers.

• Smokers and excessive alcohol consumers — both habits can increase acid production and weaken the stomach’s protective lining.

• People with a history of acid reflux (GERD) — chronic reflux can cause inflammation, leading to gastric discomfort and complications.

• Individuals with underlying digestive conditions — disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastroparesis can contribute to persistent gastric pain.

• Older adults — the stomach lining becomes more fragile with age, which makes it more susceptible to irritation and ulcers.

• People with irregular eating habits — skipping meals or overeating can disrupt gastric acid regulation. 

How is gastric pain diagnosed? 

At Alpine Surgical Practice, we take a thorough and personalised approach to diagnosing gastric pain. Since the causes can range from mild irritation to more serious conditions, an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. 

• Detailed medical history and physical examination — understanding your symptoms, dietary habits, and medical background helps us identify possible triggers.

• Gastroscopy (Upper Endoscopy) — a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum for inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) testing — breath, stool, or biopsy tests can detect this bacterial infection, which is a common cause of gastritis and ulcers.

• Abdominal ultrasound — sound waves create images of the abdominal organs to check for gallbladder disease, liver issues, or other conditions that may mimic gastric pain.

• Barium swallow or meal X-ray — a contrast liquid highlights the oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine on X-ray images, which helps us detect structural abnormalities.

• pH monitoring and manometry — these tests assess acid reflux and oesophageal motility issues, which can contribute to persistent gastric pain.

• Stool tests and blood tests — these help identify infections, inflammation, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.

• CT or MRI scans — in complex cases, advanced imaging may be used to assess deeper structures and rule out serious conditions.

What are the treatment options for gastric pain in Singapore? 

• Medications to reduce acid production — proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor blockers help lower stomach acid levels, easing pain from gastritis, reflux, and ulcers.

• Antibiotic therapy for H. pylori — if a bacterial infection is the cause, we use a combination of antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori and prevent ulcer recurrence.

• Mucosal protective agents — medications like sucralfate form a protective barrier over the stomach lining to aid healing and reduce irritation.

• Gastro-modulating drugs — these drugs improve stomach motility and regulate the contractions and gastric emptying, particularly for those with gastroparesis or functional dyspepsia.

• Lifestyle and dietary modifications — we guide you in making adjustments such as avoiding trigger foods, managing stress, and adopting healthier eating habits.

• Endoscopic procedures — for conditions like bleeding ulcers, polyps, or early gastric cancer, we offer minimally invasive endoscopic treatments.

• Surgical intervention — in severe cases where conservative treatments fail, procedures such as ulcer repair or fundoplication for reflux may be recommended for the relevant conditions.

Summary

If you have ongoing gastric pain, discomfort, or frequent digestive issues, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out any serious conditions. At Alpine Surgical Practice, we take a tailored and holistic approach to help you overcome gastric pain. In addition to medical treatments, we emphasise dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and personalised care to effectively manage the root cause of your symptoms.

Book an appointment with us today (link to appointment form) for a thorough evaluation and a customised treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can stress cause gastric pain?

Yes, stress and anxiety can lead to stomach pain and may also cause other bowel symptoms such as bloating and diarrhoea. However, this pain is usually temporary and not serious and often resolves once the stressful situation ends. 

Can a bladder infection cause abdominal pain?

Yes, a bladder infection (cystitis) can cause lower abdominal pain. This infection typically also causes other symptoms such as pain during urination and increased frequency of urination. 

Does constipation cause abdominal pain?

Yes, constipation can lead to abdominal pain, as well as other symptoms like bloating and nausea. Ensuring adequate fibre intake and hydration can help alleviate these symptoms. 

What over-the-counter medications can alleviate stomach pain?

Over-the-counter options include antacids for heartburn, simethicone for gas relief, and laxatives for constipation. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist. 

When should I seek medical attention for gastric pain?

Seek immediate medical care if you experience severe and sudden abdominal pain, persistent pain lasting several hours or days, vomiting blood, blood in stools, high fever with chills, or unexplained weight loss. These could be signs of serious conditions requiring prompt evaluation. 

Can certain foods trigger gastric pain?

Yes, foods and beverages such as caffeine, tomato products, fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, and alcohol can trigger acid reflux, leading to gastric discomfort. Managing your diet by avoiding these triggers can help alleviate symptoms. 

What lifestyle changes can help manage gastric pain?

Incorporating regular physical activity, eating smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and reducing alcohol consumption can help manage and prevent gastric pain. 

Can gastric pain be related to other health conditions?

Yes, gastric pain can be associated with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and infections such as Helicobacter pylori. Proper diagnosis and treatment of these conditions are essential for effective management of gastric pain.