Toggle Location Modal

Heaviness in Stomach - What Does It Mean, Causes, Treatment

WhatsApp
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Written by Hexahealth Care Team, last updated on 30 September 2023| min read
Heaviness in Stomach - What Does It Mean, Causes, Treatment

Quick Summary

Here are some common causes of a heavy feeling in your stomach:

  • Overeating
  • Stress
  • Indigestion
  • Gas
  • Constipation
  • Pregnancy
  • Medications
  • Underlying health conditions

If you experience a persistent feeling of heaviness in your stomach, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Do you ever experience a feeling of discomfort or heaviness in stomach, even when you haven't eaten a large meal? This sensation can be uncomfortable and distracting, impacting your ability to go about your day-to-day activities. 

It can be caused by various factors, from overeating to stress, and can be a symptom of underlying health conditions. In this article, we'll explore some common causes of why your stomach feels heavy and provide tips on alleviating this discomfort, allowing you to feel lighter and more comfortable.

What is Heaviness in Stomach?

Heaviness in stomach is a common symptom of discomfort or pressure in the abdomen. This sensation can range in intensity from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and heartburn.

There are many potential causes of Heaviness in stomach, and the specific reason can depend on a person's age, medical history, and other factors.

get the appget the app

Causes of Heaviness in Stomach

Understanding the underlying causes of heaviness in the stomach is important for identifying the most effective treatment and preventing future occurrences. In this section, we will explore why your stomach feels heavy and what you can do to alleviate the discomfort.

  1. Indigestion
    1. Also known as dyspepsia, indigestion is a common cause of heaviness in stomach. 
    2. It can cause symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and a burning sensation in the chest, as well as a feeling of fullness or bloating in the stomach. 
    3. Indigestion can be triggered by overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming certain foods, such as fatty or spicy foods.
  2. Constipation
    1. When the bowels are not moving regularly, it can lead to constipation, which can cause heaviness in the stomach, abdominal pain and bloating.
    2. Constipation is often caused by a lack of fibre in the diet, insufficient fluid intake, or a lack of physical activity.
  3. Bloating
    1. This is a feeling of swelling or fullness in the abdomen that is often caused by gas or fluid accumulation in the digestive tract.
    2. It can occur due to eating habits, such as eating too quickly or consuming high-fibre foods, or by medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  4. Pregnancy
    1. The growing uterus can pressure the stomach and intestines, leading to a heavy feeling in stomach early in pregnancy.
    2. Pregnancy-related heaviness in stomach is typically temporary and should resolve after delivery.
  5. Gastroesophageal reflux disease
    1. GERD is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. 
    2. In some cases, GERD can also cause a feeling of heaviness in stomach.
  6. Hormonal changes
    1. Fluctuations in the hormones can affect the digestive system and cause symptoms such as heaviness in stomach. 
    2. For example, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can cause bloating and abdominal discomfort.
  7. Eating disorders
    1. Some disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia can also be the reason why your stomach feels heavy due to changes in how the body processes food.

Treatment for Heaviness in Stomach

Heaviness in the stomach can be a discomforting sensation that can be caused by a variety of factors, including overeating, indigestion, or gastrointestinal disorders. Fortunately, several treatment options can help alleviate the symptoms of heaviness in the stomach and improve overall digestive health.

Home Remedies for Heaviness in Stomach

If you're looking for solutions, several natural and simple home remedies relieve the discomfort. These remedies are easy to prepare and use and may help improve your digestion and relieve the symptoms of heaviness in the stomach.

  1. Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help reduce bloating and prevent constipation, which can contribute to heaviness in stomach. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water per day.
  2. Eat a high-fibre diet: Increasing your intake of fibre-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help promote regular bowel movements and reduce constipation.
  3. Avoid trigger foods: Some people may find that certain foods or drinks, such as caffeine, alcohol, or spicy foods, can trigger symptoms of indigestion or bloat. 
  4. Get regular exercise: Physical activity can help improve digestion and prevent constipation, which may help lessen heaviness in stomach. Aim for at least 30-40 minutes of moderate-intensity workouts, such as brisk walking, on most days of the week.
  5. Try relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can disrupt digestion and contribute to heaviness in stomach. Practising relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, may help resolve symptoms.
  6. Eat slowly: Chewing your food thoroughly and eating slowly can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of indigestion or bloating.
  7. Avoid smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol: Both these habits can irritate the digestive system and contribute to Heaviness in the stomach.

Medications for Heaviness in Stomach

Several medications may be used to treat Heaviness in stomach, depending on the underlying cause of the symptom:

  1. Antacids: If you experience heartburn, indigestion, or other symptoms of acid reflux, antacids can help alleviate the discomfort by neutralising stomach acid.
  2. H2 receptor antagonists: These are a type of medication that can treat heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux by blocking the production of stomach acid.
  3. Proton pump inhibitors: They are another type of medication that can reduce the production of acid in the stomach.
  4. Laxatives: For those experiencing constipation, laxatives can help stimulate bowel movements and provide relief.
  5. Antispasmodics: These medications can relax the muscles in the digestive tract and may be used to treat cramps and other symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Do’s and Don'ts for Heaviness in Stomach

Dealing with heaviness in the stomach can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but there are several things you can do and avoid to help manage the symptoms. Following simple dos and don'ts can improve your digestion, reduce discomfort, and prevent further complications.

Do's

Don'ts

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet

Eat foods that are high in fat or spicy

Drink plenty of fluids

Drink alcohol in excess

Get regular exercise

Smoke

Manage stress

Eat too quickly

Eat slowly

Eat large meals

Avoid trigger foods

Eat too much

Take medications as prescribed by a healthcare professional

Ignore persistent or severe symptoms

When to see a doctor for Heaviness in stomach?

It is generally recommended to speak with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing persistent or heavy feeling in upper stomach, or if the symptom is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Some examples of other symptoms that may warrant a visit to a healthcare professional include:

  1. Abdominal pain
  2. Nausea or vomiting
  3. Fever
  4. Blood in the stool
  5. Unexplained weight loss
  6. Difficulty swallowing
  7. Persistent heartburn

Takeaway

It is essential to speak with a healthcare professional as soon as possible if you are experiencing any symptoms of heaviness in stomach, as they may indicate any underlying medical condition that requires immediate treatment. In some cases, Heaviness in stomach may be a benign symptom that can be managed with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies.

However, it is essential to get a proper diagnosis to determine the symptom's cause and the most appropriate treatment.

If you're experiencing any discomfort or health concerns, consider seeking advice from the experts at HexaHealth. Their team of doctors can provide valuable guidance and recommend the best treatment options for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common myths and facts about heaviness in the stomach:

  1. Myth: Heaviness in the stomach is always a sign of indigestion or constipation.
    Fact: While indigestion and constipation can cause heaviness in the stomach, there are many other possible causes, including dietary choices, stress, and underlying medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal infections.
  2. Myth: Heaviness in the stomach is always a serious problem.
    Fact: In many cases, heaviness in the stomach is a temporary and benign symptom that can be relieved with simple lifestyle changes. 
  3. Myth: Exercising after meals can worsen heaviness in the stomach.
    Fact: Moderate exercise, such as walking, can aid in digestion and help alleviate symptoms of heaviness in the stomach. However, it's important to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before engaging in physical activity to avoid discomfort or nausea.

There are many possible causes of heaviness in the stomach, including indigestion, constipation, dietary factors, stress, and underlying medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal infections.

If the heaviness is persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting, it is important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Eating a large meal, consuming high-fat or gas-producing foods, or drinking carbonated beverages can all lead to feelings of heaviness in the stomach. Stress and anxiety can affect digestion and cause symptoms such as heaviness in the stomach.

Some more common causes include indigestion, constipation, dietary choices, stress, and underlying medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal infections.

To relieve heaviness in the stomach, try eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and practising stress management techniques.

If the heaviness is persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting, see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Early during pregnancy stomach feels heavy because of hormonal changes, an expanding uterus, an increase in blood volume, and gas and bloating. These symptoms are usually not a cause for concern. 

The signs and symptoms of heaviness in the stomach may include:

  1. A feeling of fullness or discomfort in the stomach
  2. Bloating or abdominal distention
  3. Abdominal pain or cramping
  4. Constipation or difficulty passing stools
  5. Nausea or vomiting
  6. Loss of appetite
  7. Heartburn or acid reflux
  8. Belching or passing gas

The best treatment for heaviness in the stomach depends on the underlying cause of the symptom. Some common treatments for heaviness in the stomach include:

  1. Dietary changes: Avoiding foods that are known to cause stomach discomfort, such as fatty or spicy foods, can help alleviate symptoms of heaviness in the stomach.
  2. Medications: Depending on the cause of the symptom, various over-the-counter or prescription medications may be recommended, such as antacids for heartburn, laxatives for constipation, or antispasmodics for cramps.
  3. Lifestyle modifications: Simple changes to daily habits, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals or engaging in regular exercise, can also help alleviate symptoms of heaviness in the stomach.
  4. Medical intervention: In some cases, more serious underlying conditions may require medical intervention, such as endoscopy to examine the digestive tract or surgical procedures to correct issues like hernias.

If heavy gas in the stomach is left untreated and is caused by an underlying medical condition, it is possible that the condition could worsen over time and lead to more serious complications. For example, if heavy gas is caused by inflammatory bowel disease, the untreated disease can damage the intestinal lining and other complications.

To prevent heaviness in the abdomen, try eating a healthy diet high in fibre and whole grains, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, managing stress, and avoiding trigger foods

To reduce heaviness in the stomach, try incorporating high-fibre foods, lean protein sources, fermented foods, herbal teas, and ginger into your diet. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.

To alleviate heaviness in the stomach, try drinking water, peppermint tea, warm water with lemon, chamomile tea, or ginger tea. Consult with a healthcare provider before trying new drinks, as they may not be suitable for everyone and could interfere with any medications you are taking.

It is important to see a healthcare provider if the heaviness is persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as:

  1. Severe abdominal pain
  2. Fever
  3. Vomiting
  4. Bloody stools
  5. Unexplained weight loss
  6. Difficulty swallowing
  7. Chest pain

Heaviness in the stomach can have a variety of causes, including indigestion, overeating, stress, anxiety, and certain medical conditions. The treatment for heaviness in the stomach depends on the underlying cause.

Here are some tips that may help alleviate the discomfort of heaviness in the stomach:

  1. Eat smaller, more frequent meals
  2. Avoid fatty, spicy, and greasy foods
  3. Drink plenty of water
  4. Avoid lying down immediately after eating
  5. Practice relaxation techniques

Last Updated on: 30 September 2023

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and learning purposes only. It doesn't cover every medical condition and might not be relevant to your personal situation. This information isn't medical advice, isn't meant for diagnosing any condition, and shouldn't replace talking to a certified medical or healthcare professional.

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

Author

About Authors

HexaHealth Care Team

HexaHealth Care Team brings you medical content covering many important conditions, procedures falling under different medical specialities. The content published is thoroughly reviewed by our panel of qualified doctors for its accuracy and relevance.

get the appget the app
aiChatIcon