If your abdominal pain lasts for a few days after a run, it’s possible something else is going on, such as a muscle strain or a hernia.
Muscle strains, or tears in your muscles, can happen if you don’t regularly work out these muscles and they’re weak, you’re not warming up before your run, or you’re overworking them.
Symptoms of a muscle strain include:
- Bruising
- Muscle spasms
- Swelling
If you suspect a muscle strain, try icing the area or applying a warm compress.
You can also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin to help with pain. However, it’s important to speak with a doctor before doing so. Some NSAIDs may not be safe for people with certain health conditions or when they’re taken in addition to other medications.
Persistent pain may also be a sign of a hernia. Symptoms include:
- A lump or bulge in the affected area
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
If you’re regularly experiencing this type of stomach pain or GI discomfort, consider speaking with a nutritionist.