Treating Stomach Pain In Adults: Home Remedies You Should Know

Abdominal pain, also known as tummy or stomach pain, is discomfort felt anywhere from below the ribs to the pelvis. This region houses various organs, including the stomach, liver, pancreas, small and large intestines, and reproductive organs, as well as major blood vessels.  

Although some instances of stomach pain are transient and resolve independently, others may necessitate professional medical care, including abdominal pain treatment. Typical symptoms linked with stomach pain include cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The discomfort might be confined to a particular part of the abdomen or spread across the entire area. 

Many seek relief from the symptoms rather than a cure.  In many instances, abdominal pain treatment involves managing the symptoms while identifying the underlying cause, which becomes apparent through proper diagnostic testing. Stomach  pain can come from diet, lifestyle, and health issues.

 Now, let's break down the different types of abdominal pain and their common causes to better understand how to address them effectively.

Types and causes of abdominal pain

 

Abdominal pain can vary greatly in terms of where it occurs, how long it lasts, and how severe it is. Understanding the different types and their potential causes can be crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Acute abdominal pain

Acute abdominal pain develops suddenly and typically lasts for a few hours to a few days. It can be accompanied by other symptoms like fever or diarrhoea. Common causes include:

• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, usually requiring surgical removal.
• Gastroenteritis: Often called stomach flu, this includes viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Kidney stones: Intense pain in the back or side that can travel to the lower abdomen or groin area.
• Diverticulitis: This condition involves the inflammation of small pouches, called diverticula, which can develop in the intestines.
• Intestinal obstruction: A blockage that obstructs the passage of food or liquid through the small or large intestines.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): 
• Typically characterised by a burning feeling during urination and a persistent need to urinate.

Chronic abdominal pain:

Chronic pain persists longer, often for weeks to months, and can come and go. It’s not necessarily progressive but can be debilitating:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Defined by a mix of symptoms such as abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, bloating, and gas. The Good Bug’s IBS Rescue is a targeted solution designed to alleviate these symptoms and enhance digestive health. With a unique blend of probiotics and natural ingredients, IBS Rescue helps support gut health, reduce bloating, and regulate bowel movements. 
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Includes conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis that result in ongoing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Celiac disease: Immune reaction to eating gluten, which damages the small intestine’s lining. Support your immune system with The Good Bug's First Defense, featuring Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and key vitamins designed to strengthen your body's natural defenses.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux that causes heartburn and abdominal discomfort.
• Chronic pancreatitis: Persistent inflammation of the pancreas that affects digestion.

When considering abdominal pain treatment, it's essential to understand the underlying condition causing the pain to tailor the most effective approach.

Progressive abdominal pain

This pain worsens over time and usually signals a serious condition:

• Cancers: Various types including stomach, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer.
• Liver disease: Conditions like hepatitis or liver cancer can lead to progressive pain.
• Chronic pelvic pain: In women, this could result from conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Colicky pain

This pain comes in waves and can be intense.  It typically signifies an issue that causes blockage or spasms:

• Kidney stones: Sharp, cramping pain in the back and side, frequently extending to the lower abdomen or groin.
• Gallstones: Intense pain in the upper right abdomen, which can also spread to the back or shoulder.  So,  What triggers these pains? Here are common causes.

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

Dietary factors:

• Overeating: May overload the digestive system, resulting in discomfort.
• Food intolerances: Including lactose or gluten intolerance, which can lead to bloating, gas, and abdominal cramps. 

Lifestyle factors:

• Stress and anxiety: Can interfere with the normal operations of the digestive system, causing symptoms such as stomach cramps.
• Sedentary lifestyle: May contribute to digestive issues like constipation and abdominal pain.

Medical conditions:

• Peptic ulcers: Sores on the stomach lining caused by Helicobacter pylori infection.
• Menstrual cramps: Can cause significant abdominal pain, often accompanied by other menstrual symptoms.

Immediate relief for mild to moderate pain:

• Warm compresses: Applying heat can relax and soothe muscle spasms or pain.
• Hydration: Drinking warm fluids can ease digestion and pain.

Persistent or severe abdominal pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to diagnose and treat the underlying cause effectively.  Naturally, it’s important to consider the health concerns that can arise from these symptoms and the steps you can take to get a proper diagnosis.

Common health concerns and diagnostic practices

 

Abdominal pain can arise from various health issues, making accurate diagnosis crucial. Timely and appropriate management can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Key health concerns

People often express concerns over conditions such as appendicitis, gallstones, ulcers, and various infections, including those related to pregnancy. Notably, abdominal pain can sometimes be referred from areas outside the abdomen, including heart attacks, pneumonia, pelvic or groin issues, skin conditions like shingles, and muscle strains. 

This type of pain may also relate to urinary issues, bowel movements, or menstrual cycles.  Addressing these varied causes and ensuring effective relief requires proper abdominal pain treatment.

Diagnostic strategies

To determine the cause of abdominal pain, doctors undertake comprehensive evaluations that involve detailed questioning and a physical examination. Often, if the pain is assessed as non-serious, further testing may not be required. In some instances, the pain may resolve itself without a definitive diagnosis. 

However, when necessary, appropriate abdominal pain treatment can be administered based on the underlying cause identified through the diagnostic process. But what about those moments when you need immediate relief? Let's explore some home remedies that might do just the trick.

Immediate relief home remedies

 

For those seeking quick solutions to digestive discomfort, there are several natural remedies that can provide immediate relief. These treatments, including ginger, peppermint tea, and more, harness the power of natural ingredients to soothe the stomach and support digestive health.

Ginger

Ginger, revered since ancient times in India and China, is known for its medicinal properties and serves as a natural anti-inflammatory and digestive aid for abdominal pain treatment that can alleviate stomach pain. 

Ginger contains gingerols and shogaols, which help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and stimulate digestive enzymes. You can enjoy ginger in several ways, such as making ginger tea by grating fresh ginger into hot water, or consuming it in the form of supplements or candies.   Many individuals have found ginger effective in easing stomach discomfort and nausea.

Additionally, it is effective in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting. Ginger can be consumed by:

• Chewing on fresh ginger root

• Drinking ginger tea

• Eating ginger chews

• Taking ginger supplements

Researchers indicate that dichloromethane extracts from ginger and cinnamon significantly lowered infection markers and enhanced intestinal health, suggesting ginger’s potential as a natural therapeutic agent for abdominal pain treatment.  Further research is necessary to establish its safety and efficacy fully.

Peppermint tea

Peppermint helps relieve gas, bloating, and stomach spasms. Its key components, menthol and methyl salicylate, have antispasmodic properties that relax the stomach and intestinal muscles. This is particularly advantageous for those with IBS.  Clinical studies have shown that peppermint oil capsules can be effective in reducing symptoms, though individual results may vary.

To benefit from peppermint, you can:

• Drink peppermint tea
• Take peppermint oil capsules

Chamomile tea

Chamomile, from the Asteraceae family, is a potent herbal remedy that uses small daisy-like flowers to create a calming tea. Known for its anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties, chamomile can alleviate stomach pain and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. 

While generally safe, it should be used cautiously by pregnant individuals or those with certain allergies. Chamomile tea also promotes relaxation and restful sleep, which are crucial for recovery from ailments.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Apple cider vinegar, a centuries-old remedy, is thought to help with various health issues including digestive problems. However, its acidic nature should be consumed cautiously. For use, mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water and drink slowly. For more persistent issues, a similar amount of undiluted ACV might provide greater relief.

Fennel tea

Fennel tea is another herbal remedy that supports digestion and relieves stomach ailments. Fennel seeds contain compounds that can relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, reduce gas, and decrease bloating. To make fennel tea, steep crushed fennel seeds in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. This tea is especially beneficial after meals to help with digestion and prevent stomach cramps.

These remedies offer effective natural alternatives for managing and treating various digestive issues. However, they should be used to complement, not replace, conventional medical treatments for serious conditions.  Speaking of complementary methods, modifying your diet can also play a crucial role in alleviating stomach pain.

Dietary adjustments

In addition to home remedies, making dietary adjustments can help alleviate stomach pain and promote better digestion.

Bland diet

A bland diet consists of foods that are gentle on the digestive system, often used for abdominal pain treatment. These foods are usually soft, low in fiber, mildly seasoned, and higher in pH, which helps minimise acid production and soothe the gastrointestinal tract. 

This diet is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing digestive issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, heartburn, nausea, and post-operative recovery from stomach or intestinal surgeries. 

The primary goal of a bland diet is to reduce digestive workload and irritation, providing the gut with the opportunity to heal, making it a useful strategy for abdominal pain treatment.

Why choose a bland diet?

You can help manage and alleviate symptoms of various gastrointestinal complications by eating a bland diet, which limits the intake of foods that might otherwise exacerbate issues like acid reflux, vomiting, and diarrhoea.  It is typically recommended for short-term relief and is not suitable for long-term nutritional management without medical advice. Transitioning back to a regular diet should be done under professional guidance to avoid recurring symptoms. To further support your digestive health, consider adding probiotics and prebiotics from The Good Bug.

Foods to include in a bland diet

When following a bland diet, you should focus on including:

• Rice and oatmeal: These are excellent sources of bland carbohydrates that are easy on the stomach and help in binding the stools.

• Bananas and papaya: These fruits are not only soft and easy to digest but also rich in enzymes and nutrients that aid digestion and reduce irritation.

• Clear liquids with electrolytes: Staying hydrated by drinking clear liquids and electrolyte-rich beverages like water, fruit juice, coconut water, sports drinks, and broths can help replenish fluid losses and electrolyte imbalances associated with vomiting and diarrhoea. Mild dehydration can be treated with these simple options.

• Boiled potatoes: Without any added spices or fat, boiled potatoes are a good source of energy and comfort for upset stomachs.

• Cooked vegetables: Gentle on the stomach and easy to digest, vegetables like carrots, spinach, and bottle gourd should be well-cooked.

• Flaxseed: A rich source of fiber, flaxseed can help regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation-related abdominal pain. Consuming small amounts of ground flaxseed meal or flaxseed oil can improve digestion, prevent stomach inflammation, and reduce gas.

• Pectin-rich foods: Pectin, a natural plant fiber found in apples and citrus fruits, helps relieve diarrhoea symptoms by forming soft, bulky stools and increasing good bacteria in the gut. Pectin-rich foods promote a healthier gut microbiome.

• Lean meats: Skinless chicken and fish, cooked without much oil or spices, provide necessary proteins without burdening the digestive system.

• Low-Fat dairy products: Options like skim milk and low-fat yogurt are easier on the stomach for those who are not lactose intolerant.

• Eggs: Soft boiled or poached eggs are excellent protein sources and are gentle on an upset stomach.

Foods to avoid on a bland diet

• Fatty dairy foods: Such as whipped cream or high-fat ice cream, which are hard to digest and can cause discomfort.
• Strong cheeses: Like blue cheese, which can be too harsh on the digestive system.
• Raw vegetables and salads: High in fiber and difficult to digest, potentially worsening gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Gas-forming vegetables: Including broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, cucumber, and corn, which can cause bloating and discomfort.
• Dried fruits: High in fiber and sugar, which can exacerbate stomach issues.
• Whole-grain products: Such as whole-grain breads, crackers, and pasta, which are harder to digest due to their high fiber content.
• Pickles and fermented foods: Can be too acidic and harsh on the stomach.
• Spices and strong seasonings: Including hot pepper and garlic, which can increase stomach acid and irritation.
• Foods high in sugar: Such as sweets and sugary drinks, which can lead to rapid gastric emptying and diarrhea.
• Fried or greasy foods: Difficult to digest and can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Alcoholic beverages: Irritate the stomach lining and can worsen gastrointestinal issues.
• Caffeinated drinks:Such as coffee and certain teas, which can increase stomach acid production.

By focusing on easily digestible foods and avoiding those that can irritate the digestive tract, a bland diet helps manage and alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal distress effectively.  Beyond what you eat, making certain lifestyle changes can further enhance your digestive health and overall well-being.

Lifestyle changes

• Stress management

Engaging in practices such as deep breathing exercises and meditation can significantly reduce stress. These activities trigger a relaxation response that interrupts the body’s stress response, helping to calm the mind and body. Deep breathing, meditation, and maintaining a balanced gut microbiome with the help of The Good Bug's daily probiotics can significantly reduce stress and digestive discomfort.

• Regular exercise

Maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial for overall health and can help alleviate stress and its physical consequences. Regular exercise, especially aerobic activities, can help diminish symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhance mood stability, and promote better stress management by lowering stress hormones like cortisol. It's important to choose exercises that suit individual health needs and conditions to avoid exacerbating any existing issues, such as acid reflux or other digestive disturbances.

Recommended Exercises for Improved Digestive Health

• Walking: A gentle 30-minute walk, five times a week, can enhance digestion by stimulating intestinal movement.
• Yoga: Engaging in yoga helps stretch and strengthen the digestive system through various poses.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Targeted exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles can enhance control over bowel and bladder functions.
• Swimming: As a low-impact activity, swimming boosts overall circulation throughout the body, including the digestive system, while sparing the joints from strain.

• Pilates: Concentrating on core strength and flexibility, Pilates aids in boosting the efficiency of the digestive system.

Proper sleep

Ensuring sufficient and consistent sleep is vital for maintaining good health and can influence the functioning of the digestive system. Disruptions in sleep patterns can exacerbate existing gastrointestinal discomfort. 

Setting a regular sleep schedule and aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night helps synchronise the body’s natural rhythms, aiding in smoother digestion and more regular bowel movements.

 Good sleep practices are essential for both mental and physical health, helping to stave off the negative effects of sleep deprivation on the body’s systems. Support your sleep and overall well-being with The Good Bug's Sleep & Calm. This innovative formula enhances sleep quality, promotes relaxation, and supports digestive health with a blend of  melatonin, and magnesium.

Limit alcohol consumption

Alcohol can be harsh on the digestive system, especially on an empty stomach, leading to irritation and inflammation of the stomach lining. Moderate your intake, adhering to recommended guidelines of no more than 2-3 units per day for women and 3-4 units for men. 

This can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and prevent digestive discomfort.  For ongoing relief and to prevent future issues, consider implementing these long-term habits into your daily routine.

Long-term preventive measures

Balanced diet

• Focus on a diet rich in fibers and fermented foods. Including high-fiber vegetables, fruits, and quality prebiotics and probiotics. For an extra boost, try The Good Bug's Prebiotic Fiber Boost to further improve your gut health and digestion. 

Eating habits

• Choose to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to better manage hunger and lessen the burden on your digestive system. Make sure to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly, which is essential for aiding digestion.

Additional Home Remedies

Warm compress

• For abdominal pain or cramps, using a warm compress can enhance blood flow and alleviate muscle tension. Just soak a towel in warm water, squeeze out the excess, and apply it to the painful area for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, a heating pad set to a low or medium heat, covered with a towel for protection, can also be effective.

Baking soda

• Baking soda acts as a natural antacid, helping to neutralize stomach acid and alleviate symptoms of indigestion or heartburn. Be mindful to use this remedy sparingly to prevent upsetting your body’s electrolyte and pH levels. For long-term gut health, consider The Good Bug's Gut Balance, featuring Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG to support digestion, boost immunity, enhance metabolism, and promote nutrient absorption.

Aloe vera juice

• Aloe vera juice can soothe the digestive tract, reduce irritation from acid reflux, and support bowel movements due to its laxative properties. It's advisable to consume 2 to 4 ounces of aloe vera juice daily, ideally before meals, choosing a product free of aloin to minimize harshness on the stomach.  

• Ultimately, knowing when to seek professional medical advice is crucial for maintaining your well-being. Here's when you should definitely call your doctor.

When to call your doctor

If you experience severe, persistent, or escalating pain that doesn't subside, vomit blood, have bloody or black stools, unintentional weight loss with digestive symptoms, severe dehydration symptoms such as dizziness, dry mouth, and very dark urine, or difficulty swallowing or persistent nausea and vomiting, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate serious health issues requiring urgent care.

Additionally, if you suffer from persistent or severe abdominal pain, chronic digestive problems, or discomfort that home remedies do not alleviate, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.

Regular medical consultations are essential for monitoring and managing long-term digestive conditions to prevent complications and maintain optimal health. 

Abdominal pain is a common issue with a wide range of causes, from dietary and lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. Understanding the type of pain and its potential causes is crucial for effective abdominal pain treatment. However, persistent or severe abdominal pain warrants professional medical attention to diagnose and treat any serious underlying conditions effectively. 

By combining home remedies with lifestyle adjustments and seeking timely medical advice, you can manage and alleviate abdominal pain more efficiently. Remember, the right abdominal pain treatment can lead to better overall well-being and improved quality of life.

 

Reference Links:

https://www.emedicinehealth.com/abdominal_pain_in_children/article_em.htm

https://hje.org.uk/blog/home-remedies-for-stomach-pain-and-when-you-should-go-to-the-hospital/

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/g19040084/stomach-pain-cures/

https://firstresponsehealthcare.com/blog/10-effective-stomach-pain-and-vomiting-home-remedies

https://www.scripps.org/news_items/6821-stomach-pain-in-kids-and-teens