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Stomach ache

There are many possible causes for a stomach ache. They are not always a sign of anything serious and some go away after a few days.

Common causes of stomach ache

These are some common symptoms of stomach ache and what may be causing them. But see a GP if you're unsure and worried.

Stomach ache symptoms and possible common causes.
Symptoms with stomach ache Possible cause

Feeling bloated, farting (flatulence) a lot

Trapped wind

Feeling full and bloated after eating, heartburn, feeling sick

Indigestion

Finding it hard to poo, or not pooing as often

Constipation

Watery poo, feeling sick, vomiting

Stomach bug or food poisoning

A pharmacist can help with stomach ache

Speak to a pharmacist about:

  • what might be causing your stomach ache
  • treatments that might help
  • medicines for constipation and indigestion
Find a pharmacy

When and where to get medical help

Stomach ache is not always a sign of anything serious, but sometimes you may need medical help.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

  • you have stomach pain, bloating or indigestion that does not go away or keeps coming back
  • you have a lump in your tummy
  • you're worried about your symptoms

Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

You have a stomach ache and:

  • it suddenly gets much worse
  • you're pregnant
  • blood in your poo
  • unusual bleeding or abnormal discharge from your vagina
  • diarrhoea or vomiting that has not gone away after a few days

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

You have a stomach ache and:

  • it started suddenly and is severe
  • you're vomiting blood or your vomit looks green or like ground coffee
  • there is a lot of blood coming from your bottom or your poo is black and sticky
  • you cannot pee at all
  • you cannot poo or fart at all
  • spots or a rash that does not fade when you press it (the rash may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
  • you're struggling to breathe
Information:

Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Bring any medicines you take with you.

Other causes of stomach ache

Do not self-diagnose. See a GP if you're worried.

Other stomach ache symptoms and possible causes.
Symptoms with stomach ache Possible cause

Pain and cramps when you have your period

Period pain

Intense pain around the time of your period, and possibly pain during and after sex, and when pooing

Endometriosis

Pain in the lower right side of your tummy

Appendicitis

Ongoing cramps, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Bad, ongoing pain that can go down to your groin, nausea, pain when peeing

Kidney stones

Severe pain that lasts up to 8 hours in the centre of your tummy or just under your ribs on the right side

Gallstones

Page last reviewed: 20 October 2026
Next review due: 20 October 2029