For many Filipinos, “masakit ang tiyan” is often treated as a single problem with a single solution. A little discomfort, a familiar home remedy, and the assumption that all stomachaches are basically the same.
The human body, however, is rarely that simple.
What feels like an ordinary stomachache can actually stem from a variety of causes, including hyperacidity, indigestion, acid reflux, constipation, bloating, or abdominal cramps. While the symptoms may overlap, the underlying causes are often very different. That is why understanding where the pain occurs can be just as important as understanding how it feels.
Think of your abdomen as a map.
Pain in the upper abdomen, particularly above the navel and sometimes extending toward the chest, is commonly associated with hyperacidity, acid reflux, or indigestion. It may feel like burning, discomfort, bloating, or a gnawing sensation that often appears after eating spicy, oily, or heavy meals. In many cases, the digestive system is reacting to excess stomach acid or difficulty processing food.
Pain in the lower abdomen tells a different story. Cramping, squeezing, or stabbing sensations around or below the navel may be linked to Functional Abdominal Cramping Pain, or FACP. These episodes can come and go unexpectedly and may be accompanied by bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. Stress and anxiety can also contribute, highlighting the close connection between the brain and the digestive system.
Of course, not every stomachache is harmless. Persistent pain, fever, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or severe one-sided discomfort should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
For milder cases, treatment should match the cause. Antacids may help relieve acid-related upper abdominal discomfort, while lower abdominal cramps may respond better to antispasmodics. One commonly used option is Hyoscine N-Butylbromide, marketed as Buscopan, which works by relaxing the muscles of the digestive tract. Buscopan is generally used for light to moderate abdominal cramps, while Buscopan Plus combines Hyoscine N-Butylbromide with paracetamol for more intense cramping pain.
The takeaway is straightforward. Not all stomachaches are created equal. Knowing whether the pain is a burning “hapdi” in the upper abdomen or a cramping “hilab” lower down can help point you toward the right care and, when necessary, the right conversation with your doctor.
