Everyone experiences an upset stomach now and then. It could be caused by something you ate, stress, or even a mild virus. In most cases, it passes quickly and doesn’t require medical attention. But sometimes, stomach symptoms can be more than just temporary discomfort and knowing when to seek help from a provider can make a big difference.
Here’s what to know about common causes of stomach trouble, how to tell when it might be serious, and when to consider a visit to urgent care.
Common Causes of Upset Stomach
Stomach issues can come from a wide range of sources. Some of the most common include:
- Overeating or eating too quickly
- Indigestion or acid reflux
- Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
- Food poisoning
- Stress or anxiety
- Motion sickness
- Gas or bloating
- Medication side effects
These types of upset stomach usually cause symptoms like cramping, nausea, bloating, and occasional diarrhea. They often resolve on their own with rest, hydration, and a bland diet.
When Symptoms Might Be More Serious
Some stomach issues signal a more serious condition and may need prompt evaluation. It’s important to pay attention to the intensity, duration, and combination of symptoms.
Visit a provider if you have:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours
- Dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, reduced urination)
- Diarrhea lasting more than two days
- High fever with stomach pain
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Pain that spreads to the back, chest, or shoulder
- Swelling or tenderness in the lower abdomen
These symptoms could be signs of conditions such as appendicitis, gallstones, pancreatitis, ulcers, or other gastrointestinal issues. While not all of these require emergency care, they should be evaluated by a provider without delay.
Stomach Issues in Children
Upset stomach is also common in children, often due to viruses, food sensitivity, or stress. Most of the time, kids recover with rest and fluids. But if a child is vomiting repeatedly, refusing to eat or drink, has a fever, or seems unusually tired or irritable, it’s a good idea to seek care.
Infants and toddlers may show signs of stomach discomfort by crying, curling their legs, or having changes in bowel movements. Dehydration can happen quickly in younger children, so monitoring fluid intake is especially important.
Food Poisoning or Stomach Flu?
It’s not always easy to tell the difference between food poisoning and a stomach virus. Both can cause nausea, vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea. One clue is timing—food poisoning often starts within hours of eating something contaminated, while stomach viruses may take a day or two to develop after exposure.
While both usually resolve without treatment, medical care may be needed if symptoms are intense or long-lasting.
What to Expect During an Urgent Care Visit
If you visit urgent care for stomach symptoms, the provider will ask about:
- When the symptoms started
- What you’ve eaten recently
- Whether anyone around you has been sick
- Other symptoms like fever, pain, or fatigue
- Any recent travel or new medications
They may check your vital signs and do a brief exam to assess your abdomen. Depending on your symptoms, they might recommend further testing, lab work, or imaging. The goal is to rule out serious issues and help you feel better as quickly as possible.
Tips for Soothing a Mild Upset Stomach
If symptoms are mild and improving, the following home remedies may help:
- Stick to bland foods like toast, rice, bananas, or applesauce
- Sip clear fluids such as water or electrolyte drinks
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and fatty or spicy foods
- Rest and give your stomach time to recover
If symptoms persist or return after a few days, it’s worth checking in with a provider.
When in Doubt, Get Checked
Stomach issues are common, but they don’t always resolve on their own. If your symptoms are getting worse, affecting your ability to eat or drink, or just don’t feel right, it’s okay to seek help.
In the Thornton, CO area, Advanced Urgent Care is available to assess stomach discomfort and help you determine what’s behind the symptoms and how to manage them.