Stomach pain is a discomfort that many of us have experienced at some point in our lives. It can range from a mild ache to a sharp, intense pain, leaving us wondering about the root cause.
In this article, we’ll not only talk about what are the most common causes of stomach pain but we’ll suggest some home remedies to relieve you from the pain as well. So, let’s get into it.
What is the most common cause of stomach pain?
While stomach pain can result from various factors, one of the most prevalent and easily overlooked causes is indigestion.
Indigestion
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common culprit behind stomach pain. It occurs when your stomach struggles to break down food, leading to feelings of fullness, bloating, and discomfort. This condition often arises from overeating, consuming greasy or spicy foods, and eating too quickly. Poor eating habits, such as eating late at night or skipping meals, can also contribute to indigestion.
Gastritis
Another frequent cause of stomach pain is gastritis, which is the inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammation can be triggered by various factors, including excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. Gastritis can lead to abdominal pain, nausea, and a feeling of burning or discomfort in the stomach.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers, sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine, are often an overlooked cause of stomach pain. These ulcers can result from the same factors as gastritis, such as H. pylori infection or NSAID use. The pain associated with peptic ulcers is typically described as a burning sensation and may be relieved temporarily by eating or taking antacids.
Gallstones
Gallstones, small solid particles that form in the gallbladder, can cause stomach pain when they obstruct the bile ducts. The pain is usually felt in the upper abdomen and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Factors such as obesity, rapid weight loss, and a high-fat diet can contribute to the formation of gallstones.
Lifestyle Factors
Beyond specific medical conditions, our daily habits can significantly impact our stomach health. Stress, for example, is a common trigger for stomach pain. When we’re stressed, our bodies produce more stomach acid, potentially leading to irritation and discomfort. Incorporating stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help alleviate this factor.
12 ways to relieve stomach pain
Many popular home remedies can help with indigestion and soothe an upset stomach, even if it’s caused by conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. Here are some simple solutions:
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- Stay Hydrated with Water:
- The body needs water for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Being dehydrated can make digestion harder and less effective, increasing the chances of an upset stomach.
- Drinking water may also help reduce heartburn.
- While the general guideline is about eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, individual needs can vary based on factors like activity levels, elevation, temperatures, health, and size.
- About 20% of a person’s fluid intake comes from food, and the rest should be from beverages.
- A good target for most people is around 8 or more cups of water daily.
- Children’s water needs differ:
- Infants (7.7 to 22 pounds): 3.3 fluid ounces per 2.2 pounds.
- Children (24 to 44 pounds): 3.3 fluid ounces per 2.2 pounds for the first 22 pounds, then 1.6 fluid ounces for every 2.2 pounds above this weight.
- Children (more than 44 pounds): 50 fluid ounces for the first 44 pounds, then 0.6 fluid ounces for every 2.2 pounds above this weight. Don’t give children more than 81 fluid ounces at once.
- For those with digestive issues, staying hydrated is crucial to prevent dehydration, especially if experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea.
Pros and Cons:
- Drinking water aids digestion and prevents dehydration.
- Some may forget to drink enough water, and others may prefer different beverages.
- Convenient products like water bottles and flavour enhancers can make drinking water throughout the day more enjoyable.
- Stay Upright:
- It’s advisable to avoid lying down to prevent indigestion from becoming heartburn.
- When the body is in a horizontal position, stomach acid is more likely to move backwards and upward, leading to heartburn.
- People experiencing stomach discomfort should refrain from lying down or going to bed for a few hours until the discomfort subsides.
Pros and Cons:
- Staying upright can be a convenient solution for those engaged in daily activities.
- However, it may not be suitable for individuals whose stomach pain occurs during rest or sleep.
- Embrace Ginger:
- Ginger has been found to help reduce nausea and vomiting, particularly in pregnant individuals or those undergoing chemotherapy.
- People with an upset stomach can try incorporating ginger into their food, drinking it as tea, or opting for all-natural ginger ales that contain enough ginger to soothe an upset stomach.
- Ginger tea is readily available in supermarkets and online.
Pros and Cons:
- Research indicates that ginger may effectively reduce nausea in pregnant individuals.
- Larger doses of ginger, however, may lead to side effects such as gas, heartburn, indigestion, and abdominal discomfort.
- Various ginger-containing products are commercially available to manage nausea, including ginger tea, ginger chews, ginger lollipops, and ginger supplements.
- BRAT Diet:
- Doctors might suggest the Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast (BRAT) diet for individuals dealing with diarrhoea.
- BRAT foods are known to reduce the frequency of bowel movements and provide relief from diarrhoea.
- Since these foods are bland, they lack substances that can irritate the stomach, throat, or intestines, offering comfort for tissues irritated by stomach acids during vomiting.
- Many BRAT diet foods are rich in essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium, replenishing what’s lost through diarrhoea and vomiting.
Pros and Cons:
- The BRAT diet can help firm up stool, reducing diarrhoea and dehydration, thereby easing stomach cramps associated with loose stool.
- It may not be suitable for the long term as it might not provide all the necessary nutrients.
- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol:
- Smoking and alcohol consumption can trigger indigestion and gastrointestinal conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Pros and Cons:
- Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can significantly enhance one’s quality of life and lower the risk of certain health issues, including cancer.
- However, kicking these habits can be challenging, and individuals might need extra support.
- Choose Wisely:
- Research indicates that certain foods may heighten the risk of indigestion, including:
- Fatty or acidic foods
- Wheat products
- Some fruits and fruit juices like watermelon
- Spicy foods
- Greasy foods
Pros and Cons:
- Steering clear of hard-to-digest foods could ease stomach discomfort and reduce pain.
- Opting for easily digestible foods, like fruits and vegetables, may contribute to a nutritious, well-rounded diet.
- However, for some individuals, avoiding richer or heavily preserved foods might be challenging, especially if they have limited time to find fresher options or live in a region with restricted access to affordable, nutritious food (known as food deserts).
- Research indicates that certain foods may heighten the risk of indigestion, including:
- Baking Soda Buddy:
- Some healthcare professionals propose that baking soda might help alleviate heartburn and indigestion by lowering stomach acidity.
Pros and Cons:
- While this home remedy can assist with an upset stomach, its taste may not be pleasant.
- Caution is advised, as consuming excessive baking soda may result in:
- Shallow or slow breathing
- Muscle twitching
- Muscle spasms
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Irritability
- Fantastic Figs:
- Figs contain natural substances that work as laxatives, promoting regular bowel movements and easing constipation. Additionally, these compounds may help alleviate indigestion.
Pros and Cons:
- While figs can be beneficial for constipation, individuals experiencing diarrhoea should steer clear of consuming figs due to their laxative effects.
- Figs come in various forms, including leaves, as a standalone food, or in paste form.
- Aloe Awesomeness:
- Aloe vera, found in aloe juice, may offer relief for symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome and colitis. However, more research is needed to fully confirm these benefits.
Pros and Cons:
- Healthcare professionals suggest that drinking aloe vera juice can bring relief from GERD symptoms, including heartburn, flatulence, belching, nausea, vomiting, acid regurgitation, and food regurgitation.
- Caution is advised, as ingesting aloe vera may lead to abdominal pain and cramps.
- Aloe vera juice is readily available commercially.
- Benevolent Basil:
- Basil contains elements that can help reduce gas, and its leaves are rich in linoleic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Pros and Cons:
- Basil is commonly found in grocery stores, gardening centres, and online.
However, for those in food deserts, accessing fresh basil may be challenging, and they may need to rely on online sources.
- Liquorice Love:
- Products with liquorice root may assist in relieving digestive symptoms, although the exact role of liquorice in these products remains uncertain.
- Individuals with an upset stomach can try drinking liquorice root tea multiple times a day until their symptoms improve.
Pros and Cons:
- Liquorice root teas are widely available online, but they can also be made at home by mixing 1 or 2 teaspoons of liquorice root powder with boiling water.
- Caution is advised, as liquorice can have side effects, such as an increase in blood pressure and a decrease in potassium levels, which may be especially risky for those with high blood pressure or kidney or heart disease.
- Rely on Rice:
- Plain rice can be beneficial for individuals experiencing stomach pain, particularly due to irritable bowel syndrome, and it is a component of the recommended BRAT diet.
Pros and Cons:
- Rice is readily available in bulk at many grocery stores and is often an affordable food option.
- Some evidence suggests that frequent consumption of white rice may increase the risk of metabolic syndrome, although the impact may vary and may not affect those using white rice for stomach pain relief.
- Stay Hydrated with Water:
When should I worry about stomach pain?
Experiencing stomach pain can be a common occurrence, but it’s essential to know when to pay attention and seek medical advice. Here’s a guide to help you understand when you should be concerned about stomach pain:
- Sudden and Severe Pain: If you suddenly experience intense and severe stomach pain, it’s crucial to take it seriously. This could be a sign of a serious medical issue such as appendicitis or a gastrointestinal obstruction.
- Persistent Pain: Continuous or recurrent stomach pain that doesn’t improve over time may indicate an underlying problem. If you’ve been dealing with persistent discomfort for an extended period, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
- Accompanying Symptoms: Pay attention to additional symptoms accompanying stomach pain. If you notice symptoms like fever, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits, it’s a red flag. These signs could indicate various conditions that require medical attention.
- Pregnancy and Abdominal Pain: Pregnant individuals experiencing stomach pain should be cautious, especially if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any complications.
- Previous Health Conditions: If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues or chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or ulcers, any new or worsening stomach pain should be addressed promptly.
- Pain after Injury or Surgery: If you recently had abdominal surgery or experienced an injury to the abdomen, any subsequent stomach pain should be evaluated promptly to rule out complications.
In general, trusting your instincts and seeking medical advice if you feel something is not right is crucial. While some stomach pain may resolve on its own, persistent, severe, or accompanied by concerning symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance.
Remember, it’s better to be cautious and seek help when needed to ensure your health and well-being.