If You Have Heartburn Or Gas
The remedy: Reach for the right meds
There are lots of OTC options to choose from, but not all are designed for quick relief. Some, like Prevacid and Zantac, for example, must be taken well before the pain strikes. To prep for occasional discomfort, Dr. Rao recommends keeping Gaviscon and simethicone in your medicine cabinet.
Gaviscon is her top pick for pain in the upper part of the abdomen, which is usually a sign of heartburn. “You can take it as needed, and it forms a protective layer over the food,” Dr. Rao explains. If you’re feeling bloated and gassy, simethicone may help. It encourages small gas bubbles to join together with others, making them easier to pass.
Foods That Hurt: Hot Peppers
For many people, spicy foods and an upset stomach donât mix. Chili peppers have stuff called capsaicin. Not only does it make your mouth burn, but it may also turn on nerves in your gut and make your cramps worse. Case in point: Research shows that people with IBS had more pain after eating a spicy meal made with chili peppers.
Brew Some Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon boosts your digestive power and cuts down on bloating and flatulence, making it a good choice when youre looking for relief from stomach pain.
You can add ground cinnamon to your food, but for the strongest effect, make tea with whole cinnamon sticks instead. To make one cup of tea, pour boiling water over one or two cinnamon sticks and cover for ten minutes.
If youre feeling creative, honey and ginger both make good additions to cinnamon tea.
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Rice Water To Relieve Stomachache
Last but not least, look to rice more specifically, look to the leftover water after you cook rice.
Rice water is capable of forming a coating over certain membranes like, for instance, the lining of your stomach. This barrier can be a soothing lining to help ease inflammation and offer relief from stomach pain.
For a simple rice water remedy, first wash one-half cup of white rice.
- Add rice to six cups of boiled water, cover, and allow to sit until rice is tender.
- Strain the water into a cup to cool.
- Add one-half teaspoon of honey.
- Sip on two cups daily.
Full Body Discomfort Or Malaise With Diarrhea Or Constipation
Possible explanation: lactose intolerance
What is it: Lactose is a component of milk-based products that requires an enzyme called lactase in order to be digested. In many people, this enzyme stops being produced in sufficient quantities and the lactose gets passed to the large intestine. Once there, it promotes the growth and activity of some gut bacteria that in turn cause a variety of unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms.
Treatment: There is no cure for the gradual lessening of lactase production, but the condition can be mitigated by avoiding milk-based products or by taking lactase supplements that aid in the digestion of lactose.
Gastroenterologist AppointmentSome reasons for your stomach pain are no big deal at all, and theyll usually resolve on their own. But some can indicate a deeper or potentially more dangerous problem. If you have been having stomach pain that lingers, it may be time to talk with a gastroenterologist. Contact Carolina Digestive today to make an appointment and find some much-needed relief.
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Does Drinking Water Help Abdominal Pain
Yes, water is a good source for treating abdominal pain. Always remember, you have to address the water needs of your body. Drink water whenever you feel thirsty. It will ensure the movement of things in your gut. By water, we mean water only. Dont go for carbonated water and caffeinated beverages as they can harm your stomach leaving you feeling bloated.
Are There Any Side Effects
The side effects that are commonly associated with H2 blockers are usually mild. These are diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dryness of the mouth, constipation and headaches, ringing sensation in the ears and many more.
Severe side effects include trouble breathing, wheezing, agitation, burning skin and vision issues. Endoscopy is an otherwise safe procedure but complications may have the chance of including bleeding, infection, fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and problems of the gastrointestinal tract.
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Sharp Pain In The Lower Right Side Of The Abdomen
Possible explanation: appendicitis
What is it: Once universally believed to be a vestigial organ, the appendix is now thought to play a role in maintaining a healthy balance of gut flora. The appendix can sometimes become inflamed, either because of infection or a blockage in its hollow chamber, and bacteria can build up inside. If it bursts, the bacteria causing the inflammation is released into the abdominal cavity, causing a variety of potential complications. Pain in the lower right side of the abdomen, along with other possible symptoms such as nausea and fever, is a telltale sign of acute appendicitis.
Treatment: Because of the danger related to the appendix bursting, treatment is necessary as soon after the onset of the symptoms as possible. In some cases, antibiotics can be effective in treating the condition, but the majority of the time an appendectomy is necessary.
How Is Abdominal Pain Diagnosed
The cause of abdominal pain is diagnosed based on your symptom history, a physical examination, and testing, if needed. Your doctor is likely to ask you questions about the characteristics of your pain, and whether you have any underlying physical or mental health conditions that could be contributing to your abdominal pain.
Questions from your doctor may address the following aspects of your abdominal pain:
- Where its located
- Whether its dull, stabbing, burning, or cramping
- Whether it comes and goes
- When you experience or notice it most
- Whether it radiates outward to other areas of your body
- How long youve had it
- Whether any activities or actions seem to make it worse or better
Your doctor may also ask about your overall health history, any recent injuries, and whether you might be pregnant.
- Blood, urine, or stool tests
- X-ray of the abdomen
- Computerized tomography scan of the abdomen
- Barium enema
- Endoscopic procedures
- Electrocardiogram
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When To Visit A Doctor For Stomach Pain
Abdomen pain ranges from mild to severe, so its important to learn when you should go to the doctor or even call 911 for immediate medical attention. Mild stomach pain often solves itself after a few days of rest and careful eating of plain and easily digested food, such as crackers and chicken.
If youve experienced an injury either from a car accident or blunt force trauma, you should immediately call 911 if the stomach pain is severe, and youre experiencing difficulty breathing and other chest-related pain.
or have someone take you to a hospital if your stomach is pain is severe enough that you cant remain still or forced into the fetal position. If youre experiencing any of the following symptoms, then immediately seek medical attention:
- Blood in stool
- Fever greater than 101°F
- Vomiting blood
- Jaundice
- Severe tenderness or visible swelling of the stomach
- Breathing complications
The following symptoms are associated with moderate to severe stomach pain but dont necessarily require hospitalization:
- Pain in the abdomen lasting more than 24 hours
- Frequent vomiting
Also, talk to your doctor if youre experiencing stomach pain while pregnant or breastfeeding.
What To Eat In Stomach Cramps
There are various foods that are potent in preventing stomach cramps:
- Ginger tea is a good option to avoid nausea and vomiting that usually persists in stomach cramps.
- Chamomile tea is also good for healing your upset stomach.
- Peppermint is ideal if you are facing bowel movement-related issues.
- Licorice is highly potent in curing indigestion.
- Flax seeds are known to treat constipation and stomach pain.
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Drink That Hurts: Alcohol
If you have menstrual cramps, you may want to stay away from booze. Thatâs because alcohol can make the pain last longer. Itâs a diuretic, so you pee more often. This can set the stage for dehydration, which can make cramps worse. Plus, too much alcohol can lower your blood sugar, so you may feel crankier than usual.
Treatment For Lower Abdominal Cramping
Many people experience mild cramping that may later go away on its own. Some mild symptoms are relieved with a few home remedies such as:
- Taking a rest
- Applying heat to the lower abdomen
- Relaxing exercises and deep breathing
- Doing yoga
- Taking over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, antacids, or laxatives
- Taking herbal tea
- Eating rice, bananas, applesauce, and plain crackers
- Avoiding strenuous abdominal exercises
- Avoiding coffee, alcohol, carbonated beverages
- Avoiding eating solid foods for a while
One should consider seeking medical advice when symptoms worsen or persist even after taking some home remedies. You should see a doctor immediately if you also have moderate to severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding and high fever. Some of these conditions may be life-threatening, leading to conditions like ectopic pregnancy, ruptured spleen, or abdominal aortic aneurysm, which must be treated as emergencies.
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Risks Of Food Poisoning
Most of the time, food poisoning isnt serious and you can safely treat it at home. It will usually pass on its own. However, children under the age of five, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses or certain medical treatments that cause a weakened immune system are more likely to get it and to get very sick.
The most important part of managing food poisoning is staying hydrated. Fluid loss can lead to dehydration. In severe cases, you may need to be hospitalized.
Some infections can lead to serious long-term effects, including:
Using Apple Cider Vinegar As A Stomachache Cure
Another paradoxical-sounding remedy is using acidic drinks to relieve pain from gastric reflux. Since gastric reflux can result in stomach acid leaking out into places its not wanted, your stomachs acidity can end up lower than is optimal for digesting food.
Drinking apple cider vinegar can help improve the levels and ease an upset stomach. This assumes that youre able to, well, stomach the drink in the first place. While apple cider vinegar does its work best if taken raw, you may find mixing it with water, a teaspoon of honey, and sipping slowly to be the more tolerable option.
- Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to one cup of warm water.
- Mix in one tablespoon of honey.
- Drink this remedy every three hours until pain is gone.
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Pain In Lower Left Abdomen
Various conditions can cause stomachaches and pain. However, the most common causes of pain in the lower left abdomen are:
- Kidney infections
- Inflammation of the appendix or intestines
- Crohns disease
- Ovarian cysts
- Cancer
Infections typically start by a virus, bacteria, fungus, or parasite entering the digestive system through the mouth. From there, infections can spread throughout the body into the intestines or appendix and cause severe pain. If youre experiencing diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, then your stomach and intestines contracted an infection.
Mensuration cramps may cause pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Stress and constipation also contribute to lower left abdomen pain. Ensure that youre exercising regularly and managing stress effectively to reduce the impact of psychological stress on the rest of your body.
Using Alcoholic Bitters To Relieve Stomach Pain
You may raise an eyebrow, but did you know that alcoholic bitters can naturally relieve stomach pain?
Many common brands of bitters contain a mix of mint, ginger, cinnamon, and fennel, all of which are known to help ease stomach pain in one form or another. Five to six drops in a glass of club soda or ginger ale might surprise you.
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Foods That Hurt: High
Nine out of 10 Americans get too much salt. That can throw off the balance of electrolytes, which are minerals that help your muscles work the right way. When you have too much, your body may be more likely to cramp up. It can also make you bloated. Most of our sodium comes from store-bought and restaurant foods. Check labels at the grocery store for sodium, and cook at home more often.
Who Is Eligible For The Treatment
If you are noticing the following symptoms during stomach cramps then you need to take proper medical treatment for it.
- Acute pain in your abdominal area lasting for more than 1 day.
- When you are suffering from pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Pain accompanied by diarrhea or constipation.
- Chronic pain in the upper right side of the abdominal area.
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How Do You Stop Stomach Cramps
Try following these home care steps to alleviate stomach cramps
- Get adequate rest.
- Drink plenty of water or other clear fluids.
- Avoid solid food for the first few hours.
- If cramps have been accompanied by vomiting, wait for six hours and then eat small amounts of food, such as crackers, rice or applesauce.
- Avoid milk, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products.
- Avoid foods and beverages like
- Citrus foods
These steps may also prevent stomach cramps
- Eat a high-fiber and well-balanced diet.
- Limit foods that produce gas.
- Eat small meals more frequently.
- Drink plenty of water each day.
- Wash your hands before eating or preparing food.
- Avoid overeating and avoid eating right before going to sleep.
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid expired foods or incorrectly stored food.
- Avoid foods that may trigger allergies.
- Reduce stress and anxiety to help prevent cramps.
General Abdominal Pain With Diarrhea
Possible explanation: gastroenteritis
What is it: In simplest terms, gastroenteritis is inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, typically involving the stomach and/or small intestine. Most of the time gastroenteritis is caused by a virus norovirus is one example of a common cause. The viral infection causes the inflammation, and that, in turn, causes diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes vomiting.
Treatment: As a generally non-serious condition, gastroenteritis is often treated by focusing on managing diarrhea and any other symptoms. A central aspect of this treatment is counteracting the dehydration that often accompanies the infection by pushing fluids. In the past, doctors recommended diet changes such as the BRAT diet, but this is no longer the generally accepted practice.
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Palliative Surgery Or Radiation Therapy
Surgery and radiation therapy can be performed strictly for palliative purposes as well. This means the goal of the surgery is to reduce pain and other symptoms so people with cancer can sustain their quality of life. Surgery may be used to prevent or control pain-causing cancer complications. These include bowel obstruction, compression of the spinal cord or peripheral nerves, and compression of organs. Palliative surgery and radiation are focused on comfort. They are used primarily for people with advanced cancer.
Pain can be divided into different levels.
Non-opioid drugs, such as acetaminophen , may provide some relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , such as aspirin and ibuprofen , can as well. Medications like these can help many types of mild to moderate pain. These include muscle pain, bone pain, and the pain caused by some incisions. Non-opioid pain medications may be prescribed in combination with opioids and other therapies for greater pain relief.
Opioids may be combined with non-opioid drugs. For example, acetaminophen or NSAIDs can be used along with opioids to treat moderate pain. Opioids can also be used with other drugs and therapies for severe pain. When other drugs are used, they are called adjuvant analgesics.
How To Prevent Stomach Cramps
Stomach cramps generally refer to the contractions that happen in your abdominal muscles. It is subjected to the part of your body that has been affected badly. Normally, stomach cramps are harmless. You can even prevent it at home. These are some home remedial measures to curb stomach cramps:
- Massaging the stomach area can give you great relief.
- Chamomile tea is another best option to try. It calms down the upset stomach in a few minutes.
- Dehydration is one of the major causes associated with stomach cramps. In that case, you can give your body some boost with electrolytes.
- Antacids can help in preventing bloating and gas.
- Take some rest from your daily exercise routine.
- Go for medications only when required. Whatever medicines you are taking, consult a physician first.
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Urgent Advice: Speak To Your Gp As Soon As Possible If:
- you have severe abdominal pain, especially if it’s concentrated in one area
- the pain starts suddenly or unexpectedly
If your GP is closed, phone 111.
Serious causes of sudden severe abdominal pain include:
- appendicitis the swelling of the appendix means your appendix will need to be removed
- a bleeding or perforated stomach ulcer
- acute cholecystitis inflammation of the gallbladder, which may need to be removed
- kidney stones small stones may be passed out in your urine, but larger stones may block the kidney tubes, and you’ll need to go to hospital to have them broken up
- diverticulitis inflammation of the small pouches in the bowel that sometimes requires treatment with antibiotics in hospital
If your GP suspects you have one of these conditions, they may refer you to hospital immediately.
Sudden and severe pain in your abdomen can also sometimes be caused by an infection of the stomach and bowel . It may also be caused by a pulled muscle in your abdomen or by an injury.