Stomach Ache

You can speak to your pharmacist about your stomach aches and they can advise you on what over-the-counter medications may help. These may include simple pain relief such as paracetamol, or some acid neutralising medication (antacids). You can try these for a short period such as one to two weeks, but if you find no improvement or your symptoms get worse then you should see your doctor.

You should book a routine appointment with your doctor if the pain continues for more than one to two weeks without improvement, or keeps coming back. Other reasons to speak to your doctor would be if you have lost weight unintentionally or you have noticed blood or mucus in your stools.

If you have pain when passing urine you should speak to your doctor on the day, or the next day as you may need a urine test, and to start antibiotics for a urine infection.

If you have severe pain, a fever with your stomach ache, or feel particularly unwell, you should seek medical attention urgently by visiting your doctor or calling NHS 111.

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, your medical history, any relevant family medical history, and what medications you are currently taking. They will ask you detailed questions about the pain such as what type of pain it is, how it started, and if it has moved anywhere or got worse. They will examine and have a feel of your abdomen and may take your temperature, blood pressure, and pulse. Depending on what the doctor feels is the cause, they may do further tests such as blood tests or refer you for a scan of your abdomen.