While you might associate stomachaches with eating too much candy as a child, this ailment affects people of all ages. In fact, many people experience gastrointestinal discomfort on a regular basis, which can be frustrating. If you’re experiencing an upset stomach, learn more about a few possible causes and when you should head to an urgent care center with the guide.

What Could Be Causing Your Stomachache?

1. Constipation

The next time you’re dealing with stomach pain, think of the last time you used the restroom. If you haven’t gone in the last 24 hours, you may be dealing with constipation. This often stems from dehydration caused by not drinking enough water throughout the day or working outside for a long period.

You may also need to increase your fiber intake to soften your stools, such as by eating fruits and vegetables like apples, prunes, and leafy greens. If you haven’t gone to the bathroom in three days, consult a doctor.

2. Excess Gas

If your stomach feels distended and uncomfortable after a meal, it may be due to an excess amount of gas in your digestive system. Some foods, such as beans, dairy products, and dried fruits, are harder for the stomach to break down.

As your digestive system works hard, it produces gas, giving your abdomen that annoying, inflated feeling. Usually, this type of stomach pain will dissipate in a few hours.

3. A Stomach Virus

While you might be used to nursing the common cold, a stomach virus can be much more debilitating. Sometimes called the stomach flu, this virus can lead to gastrointestinal pain, diarrhea, and nausea or vomiting. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms with a fever or if your stool or vomit contains blood, contact an urgent care center immediately.

For a professional opinion, head to Superior Urgent Care in Keller, TX. This veteran-owned medical clinic caters to patients of all ages throughout the North Fort Worth area. Whether you’re sick, expecting, or have suffered an acute injury, you can turn to Dr. Kanu and his staff for expert care. To learn more about this urgent care clinic, connect on Instagram or visit the website. You can also call (817) 576-4050 to talk to a physician.