"Why Does My Stomach Ache Exclusively at Night, Yet Feel Fine Throughout the Day?"
The stomach refers to the abdomen. Abdominal pain at night but no pain during the day often stems from poor dietary habits. Additionally, it can be attributed to functional indigestion, acute gastroenteritis, duodenal ulcer, and various other factors. It is imperative to seek medical attention promptly. Below are some probable causes and corresponding remedies:
1. Poor Diet
Consuming excessive amounts of difficult-to-digest, spicy, or stimulating foods at night can irritate gastrointestinal tissues, typically resulting in abdominal bloating and pain. It is advisable to adhere to a light diet and avoid overeating. Post-meal walks can also enhance gastrointestinal motility.
2. Functional Indigestion
Functional indigestion pertains to the dysfunction of the stomach and duodenum, often triggered by high mental stress. It manifests as postprandial fullness, upper abdominal pain, belching, among other symptoms. Medications like domperidone, mosapride, and compound digestive enzyme capsules can be prescribed to alleviate these symptoms. Eating fiber-rich foods is also recommended to expedite food digestion and absorption.
3. Acute Gastroenteritis
Acute gastroenteritis arises from consuming unhygienic food, causing acute inflammation in the gastrointestinal mucosal tissue. Symptoms include stomach pain, gastric spasms, and loss of appetite post-meals. In severe cases, fever may also occur. Drinking ample water and taking medications like Changyanning Granules, Sulfate Qingdameisu Granules, and Amoxicillin Granules under medical guidance can help curb inflammatory reactions. Quitting smoking and alcohol and undergoing follow-up exams are also crucial.
4. Duodenal Ulcer
Helicobacter pylori infection can lead to duodenal ulcer, causing local ulceration. Symptoms include dull or burning pain in the upper abdomen, with severe cases potentially resulting in weight loss, electrolyte imbalance, and other issues. Treatment involves oral medications such as Omeprazole Enteric-Coated Capsules, Magnesium Aluminum Carbonate Chewable Tablets, and Metronidazole Tablets. In severe cases, surgical resection of a large part of the stomach may be necessary. Eating frequent small meals and maintaining a healthy weight are recommended.
Furthermore, gastric perforation can also cause severe upper abdominal pain during onset, which may spread to the entire abdomen as the condition progresses. Prompt surgical repair of gastric perforation is advised. Keeping the abdomen warm and avoiding exposure to cold is also essential.
