Stomach Pain While Running: Causes and Concerns

Q: Stomach Pain While Running: Causes and Concerns

Hello, Zongxiang： Upper abdominal pain after running is not necessarily related to gastric issues. <br>It is generally recommended to wait at least two hours after eating before exercising, as this allows the stomach to empty and reduces the risk of digestive discomfort and gastr

Experiencing stomach pain while running?

I would like to ask why I experience stomach pain when running.
Initially, I thought it was due to not running for a long time, but even after running continuously for over ten days, I still experience stomach pain after running about 400 to 600 meters.
I took a week off and returned to running, but the situation remained the same.
Is the area to the right of my navel my stomach? I'm worried I might be mistaken.
Additionally, sometimes I experience chest pain while running, and sometimes I don't.
What could be the reason for this? Thank you, doctor, for your response.

Zongxiang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/12

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Hello, Zongxiang: Upper abdominal pain after running is not necessarily related to gastric issues.
It is generally recommended to wait at least two hours after eating before exercising, as this allows the stomach to empty and reduces the risk of digestive discomfort and gastric pain.
However, if you have waited more than two hours after eating and do not experience symptoms like indigestion or bloating, the upper abdominal pain after running may be attributed to several factors: 1) Diaphragmatic hypoxia due to intense breathing, 2) Gas production from food residues in the intestines, 3) Pain from the pulling of visceral connective tissue.

In general, reducing your running speed, applying pressure to the painful area, or temporarily slowing down to a walk until the pain subsides, then gradually increasing the intensity of your exercise, may help alleviate the discomfort.
If you frequently experience upper abdominal pain after exercising, it is important to pay attention to your digestive health, avoid foods that produce excessive gas or are hard to digest, and maintain a regular bowel habit.
For those who have not exercised for a long time, it is crucial not to increase exercise intensity too quickly and to stay within your body's capacity to handle the load.
If you experience chest pain while running, it may stem from hypoxia of the respiratory muscles, pleural issues in the lungs, or cardiac conditions.
It is advisable to consult a family medicine specialist or a pulmonologist for further evaluation and assessment to identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
I hope this information is helpful to you.

Dr.
Chen Bozhang, Department of Family Medicine, Keelung Hospital

Reply Date: 2010/08/12

More Info

When it comes to experiencing stomach pain while running, there are several potential causes that can be considered. It’s important to understand that the body undergoes various physiological changes during exercise, especially if you are returning to physical activity after a long break. Here are some insights into the possible reasons for your discomfort and how to address them.

Causes of Stomach Pain While Running
1. Gastrointestinal Distress: Running can lead to gastrointestinal (GI) distress due to the jarring motion of your body. This can cause discomfort in the stomach area, which may feel like cramping or pain. The intensity of the exercise can exacerbate this, especially if you have recently increased your running intensity or duration.

2. Timing of Meals: If you eat too close to your running time, the food in your stomach can cause discomfort. It is generally recommended to wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before engaging in vigorous exercise. If you are running shortly after a meal, the body is still focused on digestion, which can lead to pain.

3. Dehydration: Not drinking enough water before or during your run can lead to cramping and discomfort. Dehydration can affect muscle function and lead to gastrointestinal issues.

4. Muscle Strain: If you are not accustomed to running, the abdominal muscles may not be used to the strain of the activity, leading to discomfort. This can be particularly true if you are running at a faster pace or for longer distances than your body is prepared for.

5. Breathing Technique: Improper breathing while running can lead to a lack of oxygen to the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, causing cramping or pain. It’s important to maintain a steady breathing rhythm while running.

6. Underlying Conditions: In some cases, persistent stomach pain could indicate an underlying condition such as gastritis, ulcers, or even issues related to the gallbladder or pancreas. If the pain is severe or persistent, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Location of Pain
Regarding your concern about the location of the pain, the stomach is located in the upper abdomen, primarily on the left side. However, pain in the right side of the abdomen could be related to other organs such as the liver, gallbladder, or intestines. If you are experiencing pain in this area, it may not be directly related to your stomach.

Chest Pain During Running
Experiencing chest pain while running can be concerning. This could be due to several factors:
1. Muscle Strain: Just like with abdominal pain, the muscles in the chest can become strained during physical activity, especially if you are not used to the exercise.

2. Breathing Issues: Similar to abdominal pain, improper breathing can lead to discomfort in the chest area. Ensure you are breathing deeply and rhythmically.

3. Cardiac Concerns: While less common, chest pain can sometimes indicate a heart-related issue. If you experience chest pain that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Recommendations
1. Warm-Up Properly: Always start with a proper warm-up to prepare your body for exercise. Gradually increase your pace to allow your body to adjust.

2. Monitor Your Diet: Pay attention to what and when you eat before running. Aim to eat lighter meals that are easy to digest.

3. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are well-hydrated before and during your run.

4. Listen to Your Body: If you experience pain, it’s important to stop and assess your condition. Pushing through pain can lead to more serious injuries.

5. Consult a Professional: If the pain persists or worsens, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as an ultrasound or endoscopy to rule out any underlying conditions.

In conclusion, while experiencing stomach and chest pain while running can be concerning, understanding the potential causes can help you manage and mitigate these issues. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice when necessary.

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