What does it mean when you have a stomach ache immediately after eating?

There are several possible reasons why you might experience a stomach ache immediately after eating. Some common causes include:

- Food allergies or intolerances: If you have an intolerance or allergy to a particular food, your body may react by producing symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas, bloating, and nausea.

- Overeating: Eating too quickly or too much food can overstretch the stomach, leading to discomfort and pain.

- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, which can cause a burning sensation, chest pain, and stomach pain.

- Stomach ulcers: These are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, and can cause pain, bloating, and nausea.

- Infections: Certain infections, such as food poisoning or norovirus, can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

- Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis: These inflammatory bowel diseases can cause a range of symptoms, including stomach pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.

- Pancreatitis: This is an inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back, nausea, and vomiting.

- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): This condition is characterized by episodes of abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation.

If you experience frequent or severe stomach pain after eating, it's important to see a doctor for evaluation to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.