Have you ever felt a burning or warm sensation in your stomach area? The condition of a burning stomach can make your body uncomfortable and interfere with your daily activities. This burning feeling can occur in the upper, middle, or lower abdomen, depending on the cause. In many cases, the causes of a burning stomach are related to the digestive system, but it can also be triggered by factors such as stress or infection.
1. Acid Reflux
One of the most common causes of a burning stomach is acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux. This occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen.
The cause may include irregular eating patterns, consuming spicy or fatty foods, or lying down immediately after eating. To relieve it, avoid trigger foods and eat smaller portions more frequently.
2. Stomach or Intestinal Infection
An infection caused by bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori can also cause a burning feeling in the stomach. This bacterium irritates the stomach lining and may lead to gastritis. Besides the burning sensation, you might also experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or bloating.
If left untreated, the infection can develop into a stomach ulcer. Therefore, it’s important to see a doctor immediately if your burning stomach is accompanied by persistent pain.
3. Certain Foods
Food plays a major role in digestive health. Eating spicy, acidic, oily foods, or drinking too much caffeine can be a cause of a burning stomach. These substances increase stomach acid production or irritate the stomach lining.
To prevent this, pay attention to your daily diet. Limit trigger foods and eat more vegetables, fruits, and water to help neutralize acid in the stomach.
4. Stress and Psychological Factors
Many people don’t realize that stress can also trigger a burning sensation in the lower or upper stomach. When stressed, the body produces cortisol and adrenaline, which can disrupt digestive balance. As a result, stomach acid production increases and causes heat or discomfort.
Managing stress through meditation, light exercise, or getting enough rest can help prevent these symptoms from recurring.
5. Medication Side Effects
Some types of medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, or blood thinners, can irritate the stomach lining. Long-term use without medical supervision can worsen the condition and cause a burning feeling in the stomach.
If you are taking such medications and start feeling discomfort, consult your doctor for a safer alternative for your digestion.
Natural Ways to Relieve a Burning Stomach
In addition to avoiding the triggers, you can try several natural remedies to soothe a burning sensation in the stomach:
- Drink warm water slowly to calm the stomach.
- Avoid lying down right after eating.
- Consume ginger or honey to help reduce inflammation.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga to manage stress.
Read Also : How to Prevent Acid Reflux Naturally and Effectively
Conclusion
The causes of a burning stomach can come from various factors — from acid reflux, infection, and stress, to side effects of medication. Therefore, recognizing the exact cause will help you find the right treatment. However, if the burning sensation doesn’t go away or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as vomiting blood or sudden weight loss, it’s best to see a doctor immediately. In addition, maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle remains the key to preventing a burning stomach from coming back.