Can anxiety cause stomach pain and nausea?

Absolutely. The gut-brain axis means stress directly affects gut motility and acid secretion. Anxiety is one of the most common causes of functional nausea and stomach discomfort.

Stomach Pain and Nausea: Digestive Causes and Red Flags

Important Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

Overview

Stomach pain paired with nausea reflects irritation or dysfunction anywhere in the upper GI tract. The stomach and duodenum share nerve pathways with the brain's vomiting center, making nausea a natural accompaniment to abdominal pain.

Possible Causes

Gastritis

common

Inflammation of the stomach lining from NSAIDs, alcohol, or H. pylori produces burning pain and nausea.

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Food Poisoning

common

Bacterial toxins irritate the stomach lining, triggering both pain and the vomiting reflex.

Gallstones

less-common

Stones blocking the bile duct cause right upper quadrant pain and nausea, especially after fatty meals.

Peptic Ulcer

less-common

An open sore in the stomach or duodenal lining causing gnawing pain and nausea.

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When It Is Serious

Seek care for severe pain in the right upper abdomen (gallstones), vomiting blood, black stools, or pain with rigidity (possible perforation or peritonitis).

When It's Likely Benign

Mild discomfort after overeating, alcohol consumption, or taking NSAIDs on an empty stomach is usually transient.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Stomach Pain Guide Nausea Guide

Medically Reviewed for Accuracy

Medical Advisory Board

•Last reviewed: March 20, 2026

Content is aligned with established clinical guidelines from authoritative medical institutions, including MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine), the CDC, the NIH, and the NHS. All content is reviewed by our medical advisory board for accuracy and safety.