Why would a person's stomach feel tight?

Indigestion is a common cause of tightness in the stomach, especially the upper abdominal region, according to Mayo Clinic. Indigestion is stomach discomfort that is caused by overeating, eating too quickly, consuming a large amount of fatty foods, ulcers, gallstones, constipation and stomach cancer.

A tight, bloated stomach can also be attributed to gas. Gas is caused by a food intolerance, swallowing extra air, a sudden change in diet (especially to foods high in fiber) and constipation. Certain stomach diseases, such as Crohn's disease, also cause gas. If the feeling of tightness does not go away within a couple weeks, it is recommended for afflicted individuals to see a doctor.