Stomach pain upon waking up can have several common causes, including peptic ulcers, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Other factors such as acid reflux, gastritis, gas, or even eating too close to bedtime can contribute. The pain may vary in type—burning, dull, cramping, or stabbing—and its severity does not always indicate how serious the condition is. Persistent or severe pain should prompt medical evaluation. Key common causes are:
- Peptic ulcers causing burning pain, often worse when stomach is empty.
- Constipation causing pressure and pain.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases leading to inflammation and pain.
- Indigestion from food or lifestyle factors causing bloating and gas.
- IBS causing recurring pain with changes in bowel habits.
Less common but possible causes include gastritis, gallstones, or even infections. If stomach pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, weight loss, or blood in stool, medical attention should be sought to rule out serious issues.
