Why does my stomach hurt when I run

Abdominal pain during running is usually related to factors such as exercise related gastrointestinal spasms, improper breathing patterns, and inappropriate eating times. The main symptoms include exercise-induced abdominal pain, diaphragmatic spasm, gastrointestinal dysfunction, insufficient blood supply to internal organs, and chronic disease induction.

1. Exercise induced abdominal pain

During intense exercise, visceral organs and peritoneal ligaments in the abdominal cavity may be pulled, which may cause temporary ischemic spasms. It is common to experience pain in the area around the navel when running immediately after a meal or when there is insufficient warm-up. Suggest adjusting the intensity of exercise, warming up thoroughly before running, and avoiding exercising within two hours after a full meal.

2. Diaphragmatic spasm

Disruption of respiratory rhythm can lead to anaerobic spasms of the diaphragm, manifested as stabbing pain below the rib arch. This situation often occurs in novice runners or during sudden acceleration. Abdominal breathing should be used to maintain coordination between breathing and gait. When pain occurs, slow down and press on the painful area.

3. Gastrointestinal dysfunction

Blood redistribution during exercise may affect the blood supply to the digestive system, leading to abnormal intestinal peristalsis. Symptoms such as bloating and bowel sounds may be related to lactose intolerance or a high fiber diet. Before running, choose easily digestible foods and avoid consuming gas producing foods.

4. Insufficiency of visceral blood supply

During high-intensity exercise, blood is preferentially supplied to muscles, which may lead to temporary ischemia of organs such as the liver and spleen. This type of pain often occurs in the upper right abdomen and is common in people with poor physical fitness. It is necessary to gradually increase the intensity of exercise, and if pain occurs during exercise, slow down and walk immediately.

5. Chronic disease induction

Symptoms may appear during exercise in patients with chronic diseases such as cholecystitis and gastritis. If the pain persists or recurs, it may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, and digestive system diseases need to be investigated. It is recommended to undergo abdominal ultrasound examination and follow medical advice to treat the primary disease after diagnosis.

If you experience abdominal pain while running, you should first stop exercising and adjust your breathing. You can try bending down and pressing the painful area to relieve the symptoms. Daily attention should be paid to avoiding food two hours before exercise, choosing breathable sportswear, and maintaining regular aerobic exercise to enhance visceral adaptability. If the pain occurs frequently or continues to worsen, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to rule out acute abdominal conditions such as appendicitis and intestinal obstruction. Reasonably controlling the intensity and duration of running, combined with core muscle training, can effectively prevent exercise-induced abdominal pain.