Indigestion and stomach cramps

Cramps may feel gripping, twisting, or wave-like, while indigestion is often burning, fullness, belching, or discomfort in the upper abdomen. Acid reflux, gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, a hiatus hernia, or Helicobacter pylori infection can cause upper digestive symptoms. Gallstones can cause intense upper abdominal pain, particularly after meals. The combination does not identify one diagnosis, so location, timing, and associated symptoms matter.

Note whether the cramps ease after passing stool or gas, follow a particular food, occur with vomiting or diarrhoea, or remain fixed in one area. Share this pattern during assessment.

Rest, sip fluids, and choose smaller meals while symptoms settle. Avoid foods and drinks that reliably worsen burning or cramping, and do not lie flat immediately after eating. Avoid taking anti-inflammatory pain medicines for stomach pain unless a clinician has advised you, because they can irritate the stomach. A pharmacist can discuss whether Acid Reflux Medication is appropriate for upper burning.

Seek urgent help for severe or worsening pain, a rigid or markedly swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, black stool, faintness, fever with significant pain, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange a medical review when cramps recur, wake you, interfere with eating, or continue despite simple measures.

Does the pain pattern suggest reflux, stomach irritation, gallstones, or a bowel cause? Do I need testing for Helicobacter pylori? Which pain reliever is safest for me? What changes should prompt urgent care?