Why are there sharp pains in my stomach

Ulcers may cause a burning sensation similar to hunger pangs. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting or heartburn. Abdominal pain caused by pancreatitis , which is inflammation in the pancreas, is a severe and sharp pain occurring in the upper middle of the abdomen that can sometimes radiate to your back or chest. You may also experience other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and fever.

Pancreatitis may occur as either a sudden acute attack or a chronic condition. Abdominal discomfort and tenderness in the lower left abdomen area may be caused by diverticulitis.

This is when the small pouches inside the large intestine become infected or inflamed. Other symptoms may include a low-grade fever, nausea, vomiting or constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome can be managed through diet and stress management. However, it is important to first seek out medical help in order to get an exact diagnosis.

However, the disease can be managed through antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, an adjusted diet, and in some cases surgery. If you have stabbing pains, cramping, persistent pain, or sudden pain, you should look into being seen by a medical professional. With multiple services that allow us to run various tests and even x-rays, our urgent care services will help you find the answers and relief you seek. Computed Tomography Scan. Blood Pressure Check.

Fitness for Duty Exam. Basic Coagulation Testing. Annual Check Up. Alcohol and Drug Screening. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel. Blood Glucose Testing. A1C Test. Urinary Tract Infection. Urgent Care. Strep Throat. Sore Throat. Sinus Infection. Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Pain in the upper right stomach that comes and goes could signal a problem with the gallbladder, such as gallstones.

Gallstones can block the ducts of the gallbladder, making digestion more difficult. This causes pain shortly after eating, especially after very fatty meals. People with gallstones may notice that the pain appears a few hours after eating, lasts for 4—6 hours, and then disappears. Gallstones sometimes pass on their own. If they do not, they can block the biliary ducts, which can affect liver function.

Untreated gallstones may also cause problems with the pancreas. If a person experiences vomiting, pale stool, or a fever along with symptoms of gallstones, they should seek emergency medical treatment. Otherwise, see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Home treatment is not effective for gallstones. A wide range of digestive disorders can cause periodic sharp pain in the stomach. In most cases, the pain gets worse shortly after a meal, as the body works to digest food. These digestive disorders can be intensely painful, but they do not usually constitute a medical emergency. Keeping a food log can help a doctor diagnose the problem and provide a treatment plan.

Pain medication, heating pads, and rest may also help in the short term. Pain medication is available for purchase over the counter or online. An ulcer is a sore in the lining of the stomach or intestine. Causes of ulcers include:. People with ulcers typically experience a sharp, burning sensation in the stomach. The burning may travel up the chest and into the mouth or throat, causing heartburn or indigestion.

Symptoms are usually worse after a large or very acidic meal. The pain may come and go. A person may notice no symptoms for several months, then find that symptoms get steadily worse. Antacids may help. A range of brands are available over the counter or online. A doctor can also prescribe medication to treat the pain.

Menstrual cramps can feel sharp or dull. They may affect just one area of the abdomen or spread to the back and legs. Some people also experience diarrhea or nausea.

Menstrual cramps may occur during or right before a period. They typically come in waves, getting better and worse again throughout the day. A heating pad, OTC pain relievers, and gentle stretching can help relieve menstrual pain.

Heating pads for pain relief are available for purchase online. Menstrual cramps are not dangerous, but severe camps can make daily life difficult. A person should see a doctor if menstrual cramps are severe, have gotten worse, or interfere with work or school.

Cysts in the ovaries are common and usually harmless. Most people do not even realize that they have them. Many ovarian cysts form after ovulation , then disappear a few months later. Sometimes, ovarian cysts can cause intermittent pain.