What should you know about gut angina?

Digestion increases the intestine's need for blood. If narrowed arteries cannot deliver enough, cramping or aching may begin after a meal and settle as digestion progresses. The pain may be felt in the middle or upper abdomen, and some people eat less because they expect discomfort. This is different from chest angina, although both involve a mismatch between blood supply and demand. High blood pressure and other artery risk factors can contribute; see [Hypertension](/conditions/hypertension/) and [Angina](/conditions/angina/) for related information.

Arrange a medical assessment if meal-related abdominal pain keeps returning, especially with unplanned weight loss, reduced appetite, or a history of vascular disease. A clinician may review your symptoms, medicines, blood pressure, and smoking history, then decide whether tests such as an [Electrocardiogram](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/ecg/) or abdominal blood-vessel imaging are appropriate. Treatment may include managing blood pressure and cholesterol, with options such as [Blood Pressure Medication](/treatments/medical-management/blood-pressure-medication/) or [Statin Therapy](/treatments/medical-management/statin-therapy/) when prescribed.

Seek emergency help for sudden or severe abdominal pain, a swollen or rigid abdomen, repeated vomiting, faintness, cold sweats, blood in the stool, or pain that does not ease. These features can signal a serious loss of intestinal blood flow or another urgent abdominal problem. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you feel acutely unwell.

Ask what other causes of post-meal pain should be considered, whether your circulation risk needs review, which tests are suitable, and how to take prescribed medicines safely. Tell the clinician when pain starts after eating, how long it lasts, what foods trigger it, and whether your bowel habits or weight have changed.