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Questions and answers about sports

Localized abdominal pain after a short run?

3 min read

Asked by: Alex Hall

Why does my stomach hurt after a short run?

Once we start exercising, our body diverts the blood that we usually have in our GI system for digestion and absorption to our extremities to power our run. In other words, things that are in the stomach tend to just “sit” there rather than move through. This can lead to uncomfortable bloating and cramping.

Is abdominal pain normal after running?

Cramps, nausea, and stitches in your abdomen during running can be the result of improper hydration. Hydration before and during a long run is important, but figuring it out can be tricky. Drinking too much water could make cramps and digestive irritation worse.

Can running cause pain in abdomen?

Abdominal pain is a common complaint among participants in endurance sports. Surveys have shown that about one third of runners experience abdominal pain during intense exertion. More than half a century ago, Herxheimer suggested that the symptom could be caused by the viscera tugging on peritoneal ligaments.

Can you pull a stomach muscle from running?

People can pull an abdominal muscle by: exercising the abdomen excessively. not warming up properly before exercise or strenuous activity. using incorrect technique during exercise.

What is runner’s stomach?

Runner’s stomach occurs when our digestive system experience a large amount of agitation from the act of running or high-endurance exercise. There are certain diet tips you can follow to avoid having an accident mid-run. Photograph courtesy of Shutterstock.

What causes lower abdominal pain in females after exercise?

In some women, exercise can trigger the onset of noticeable to severe cramping. This can be a sign of underlying problems, such as gastrointestinal issues, hypothyroidism, and reproductive issues. See a doctor if you experience sudden or long-term cramps caused by exercise.

Why does my lower left abdomen hurt after running?

The most common theory is that the increased blood flow in the liver and spleen during intense cardio movement causes the pain on the sides of the abdomen. Another theory suggests that pain is caused by internal organs while pulling down the diaphragm.

What does a strained abdominal muscle feel like?

If you have an abdominal strain, the surface of your stomach area may feel tender and inflamed. You’re more likely to feel these sensations when you’re contracting your abdominal muscles and moving. Other symptoms include: sudden sharp pain.

How do you know if stomach pain is internal or muscular?

Pain may be superficial, which means it’s just on the skin, or deep, involving bone and muscles. Your internal organs don’t have as many pain-detecting nerves, so visceral pain tends to be vague or have a squeezing or aching feeling.

How do you tell the difference between a hernia and a pulled muscle?

Physical Lumps and Bumps
When someone experiences a pulled abdominal muscle, there can be inflammation and some swelling, but generally no physically-identifiable marker. A hernia usually causes a noticeable bulge on the surface of the abdomen. This bulge can be painless but change in size with exertion.

What does a sports hernia feel like?

The most common symptom of a sports hernia is intense pain in your lower abdomen or groin when the injury occurs. A sports hernia is often painful enough to force you to stop your activity. Pain may disappear with rest, but it typically returns when you go back to playing.

Where do you feel hernia pain?

The symptoms that lead most people to the doctor, and eventually a hernia diagnosis, typically include pain in the abdomen, particularly in the groin area. The pain tends to get worse if you sneeze, cough, lift something heavy or strain.