Almost everyone experiences stomach pain from time to time. But when it strikes suddenly and you’re not sure of the cause, you can start wondering what’s going on. Is it a stomach bug? Something you ate? Or could it be a more serious issue? Stomach pain can have many causes, from viral infections to foodborne bacteria to digestive conditions like acid reflux or IBS. Knowing how to identify the underlying cause helps you manage your symptoms safely and determine when it’s time to see a healthcare provider.

For same-day illness testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills. Our medical team can evaluate your condition and plan the best treatment. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!

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Understanding Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis)

The stomach flu, medically known as viral gastroenteritis, is one of the most common causes of sudden stomach pain. It’s caused by viruses such as norovirus or rotavirus, which infect the digestive tract and spread easily from person to person. Common symptoms of stomach flu include:

• Nausea and vomiting 
• Stomach cramps and bloating 
• Watery diarrhea 
• Low-grade fever 
• Body aches and fatigue

Stomach flu-related pain is often crampy or sharp and tends to come in waves. It may be accompanied by frequent trips to the bathroom and an overall feeling of being wiped out. Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last 1 to 3 days. Most people recover at home by resting and staying hydrated.

If vomiting or diarrhea lasts longer than 3 days, or you show signs of dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, dark urine), urgent care providers can assess your condition and provide IV fluids or other treatment to help you recover safely.

How Does Food Poisoning Differ?

Food poisoning happens when you consume contaminated foods or drinks containing harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins, such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Listeria. Common symptoms associated with food poisoning include:

• Nausea or vomiting (often sudden) 
• Abdominal pain or cramping 
• Diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus) 
• Fever and chills 
• Weakness or dizziness

Food poisoning pain tends to be sharp or stabbing and can come on quickly, often within a few hours of eating contaminated food. Mild cases clear up in 1 to 2 days, but some bacterial infections can linger longer or cause severe dehydration.

You should seek urgent care if symptoms last longer than 2-3 days, you notice blood in stool or vomit, you can’t keep fluids down, or if you have a high fever. At urgent care, a provider can help determine whether you have food poisoning, test for dehydration, and offer IV fluids or medications to ease nausea.

Other Common Causes of Stomach Pain

While stomach flu and food poisoning are common, they’re not the only reasons your stomach might hurt. Other possible causes include:

• Indigestion or Acid Reflux (GERD): Causes a burning or aching discomfort after eating, may be triggered by spicy or fatty foods, relief often comes after antacids or avoiding trigger foods 
• Gas or Bloating: Caused by swallowing air or eating gas-producing foods, sharp or crampy sensations that improve after passing gas or having a bowel movement 
• Constipation: Dull and persistent abdominal discomfort, often accompanied by bloating and infrequent bowel movements 
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Chronic abdominal pain linked to bowel changes, may flare up with stress, certain foods, or caffeine

If your pain is severe, persistent, or localized to one area, it’s best to get checked by a medical professional.

When To Visit Urgent Care

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe or persistent stomach pain 
• Blood in vomit or stool 
• High fever 
• Signs of dehydration 
• Pain localized in one area, like the lower right abdomen

At AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills, our medical providers can quickly evaluate your symptoms, perform testing if needed, and create a treatment plan tailored to your situation. Whether it’s a viral stomach bug, food poisoning, or something more serious, our goal is to help you find relief and recover safely.

Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills in Denver, CO

Stomach pain can stem from a wide range of causes, from norovirus to food poisoning to more serious digestive issues. While many cases resolve on their own, it’s important to monitor your symptoms and seek care if they worsen or don’t improve. If you’re unsure what’s causing your stomach pain, visit AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills for fast diagnosis and treatment. Our providers can help pinpoint the cause, rehydrate you with IV fluids if necessary, and get you feeling better as soon as possible. Our team is committed to providing the highest quality of care to all patients in the Denver, CO area.

Most health insurance plans are accepted and cost-effective options are available for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 756-4500.