Almost every individual of all age groups may have experienced stomach or abdominal pain. Though caused mainly by indigestion, stomach pain can also occur due to issues in the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas problems. The pain can be mild or severe, interrupting your daily activities, depending on the cause. Thus, before trying out any home remedy or medications, it is necessary to know the causes of your abdominal pain.
Keep reading to learn about the causes, remedies, and prevention of stomach pain!
Here are some of the factors that can cause stomach pain:
● Digestive Problems
Health conditions such as indigestion, constipation, diarrhoea, food allergies, or food poisoning are common causes of stomach pain. Such conditions lead to bloating, cramping, or a burning sensation in the stomach.
● Inflammation
Infections or inflammation of the stomach lining due to gastritis, peptic ulcers, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), or gallstones may result in abdominal pain.
● Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Habits like overeating, excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, and irregular eating times come from stress. They can make stomach pain worse. Stress and anxiety are also responsible for causing bowel symptoms such as bloating and diarrhoea.
● Female Reproductive Cycle
One of the most common causes of abdominal pain in women is menstruation. Menstrual cramps or pain during ovulation can also lead to abdominal pain in women.
● Other Causes
Diseases such as appendicitis, kidney stones, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can also result in intense abdominal pain.
The following remedies can help reduce your stomach pain:
● Ginger
It is an anti-inflammatory compound that relieves nausea and indigestion. Drinking ginger tea or including fresh ginger in foods can help reduce stomach pain.
● Heating Pad
Placing a heating pad over the stomach for 15–20 minutes eases muscles and relieves cramping due to indigestion or constipation.
● Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can increase the pain in your stomach. Drink water slowly throughout the day to rehydrate and relieve pain.
● BRAT Diet
Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast together make the BRAT diet. It is easy on the stomach and best for individuals with diarrhoea or vomiting. This diet is bland and easily digestible while replacing lost nutrients.
● Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has soothing effects on the muscles of the digestive tract. It can be ingested in capsule form or used topically on the abdomen to relieve bloating and cramps.
● Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice is helpful in alleviating symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), such as heartburn and nausea. It must, however, be taken in small amounts to prevent side effects such as cramps.
● Light Exercise
Walking and other light exercises can release trapped gas, enhance digestion, and reduce pain caused by constipation.
● Basil
Basil has compounds that might decrease gas and possess anti-inflammatory properties, easing an upset stomach.
● Licorice Root
Liquorice root tea may also alleviate indigestion and gas, but you should use it cautiously to avoid side effects.
● Avoid Spicy Foods
Limiting spicy, fried, and sugary foods can help prevent stomach irritation.
● Probiotics
Consuming probiotics through yoghurt or supplements can promote a healthy gut microbiome. It also reduces irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and other digestive issues.
● Rest
Getting adequate sleep and taking breaks during the day can help manage stress and reduce stomach discomfort.
While most stomach pains are temporary and manageable with home remedies, persistent or severe pain may require medical intervention. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:
● Intense pain lasting for more than 24 hours
● Blood in stool or vomit
● Sudden weight loss without explanation
● Difficulty swallowing or persistent nausea
● Fever or chills
● Severe vomiting or diarrhoea
● Abdominal tenderness or guarding (muscle tension).
It's also important to seek medical attention if you have a history of chronic conditions or if your symptoms worsen over time.
Taking proactive steps can help minimize the occurrence of stomach pain:
● Eat Mindfully
Consume smaller meals throughout the day instead of large portions. Avoid foods that trigger discomfort, such as spicy dishes or dairy products, if you're lactose intolerant.
● Stay Active
Stretch before exercising and gradually increase intensity to avoid strain on abdominal muscles.
● Manage Stress
You can reduce stress to avoid digestive issues by adopting stress management techniques like yoga and meditation.
● Monitor Hydration
Drink plenty of fluids daily to prevent constipation and kidney stones.
● Increase Fiber Intake
Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain healthy bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation and other bowel-related problems.
● Regular Check-Ups
Regular health check-ups can help identify underlying conditions early, preventing severe stomach pain.
To manage stomach pain effectively, you must understand its causes and adopt both immediate remedies and long-term preventive strategies.
For those dealing with persistent issues, having comprehensive health insurance from Star Health Insurance can provide peace of mind by ensuring access to timely medical care without financial stress. This allows individuals to focus on recovery and maintain overall well-being.
Call us now to get the best policy tailored to your needs!