Even while having an occasional upset stomach might be
annoying and uncomfortable, there are ways to manage your discomfort at home
without visiting a doctor. For heartburn-related stomach pain, taking an
antacid and drinking water may be helpful; for diarrhea-related stomach pain,
consuming sports drinks may be helpful. However, not every stomach issue is the
same. Find out which home cures for upset stomach are effective, which are just
urban legends, and when to visit a doctor.
What Immediately Calms An Upset Stomach?
The easiest natural cures for a tummy ache are heating pads,
ginger, and peppermint oil. The most effective over-the-counter (OTC) remedies
for upset stomachs are Maalox, TUMS and Rolaids calcium carbonate antacids, and
Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).
Some Effective Ways To Settle An Upset Stomach
What's causing your upset stomach will determine the best
home treatment for it. In some situations, such as after consuming a greasy,
spicy meal that you don't typically eat, this might be more apparent. The
following natural therapies could provide some comfort, even for less evident
causes.
The BRAT Diet
The words bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are
abbreviated as BRAT. When you have an upset stomach, eating modest amounts of
these bland foods can help you feel better. The BRAT diet is easy on the
stomach and can help firm up loose stools. When you have upset stomach or
digestive issues, these foods are easy to digest and offer the nutrients you
need:
Bananas are rich in antioxidants, potassium, and fiber. One
advantage of bananas is that they can aid in the relief of diarrhea and
constipation. The starch in plain rice makes it easy to digest and helps coat
the stomach. Applesauce has anti-inflammatory properties, is high in vitamin C,
is hydrating, and may improve intestinal health. Carbohydrates are readily
absorbed by the body from toast.
Ginger
Spices like ginger are quite adaptable and can be used to
treat many different kinds of illnesses, including digestive problems. It is
also advised for expectant mothers to alleviate morning sickness. Ginger
contains inherent anti-inflammatory qualities that can help calm the stomach.
Ginger can be consumed in a number of ways, including:
- Consuming ginger tea or natural ginger ale as long as the
ingredients list real ginger.
- Consuming ginger sweets or sucking on them
- Garnish your food with grated fresh ginger root or powder.
- Using supplements containing ginger
Peppermint
Studies have demonstrated that peppermint oil helps reduce
gas and upset stomach symptoms in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease
(IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, peppermint's methyl
salicylate and menthol can lessen nausea's effects.
Peppermint oil, either in the form of peppermint tea or
capsules, can help calm the stomach and relieve bloating and gas. Additionally,
peppermint helps break down food, which helps ease constipation-related stomach
pain. The aroma of peppermint also aids in the treatment of morning sickness.
You can take a supplement containing peppermint oil or
consume or suck on peppermint candies to help soothe an upset stomach.
Hydration
It's critical that you consume adequate liquids. Maintaining
adequate hydration can help reduce stomach pain as dehydration can exacerbate
it. Additionally, it facilitates digestion and softens stool, which eases
constipation-related discomfort and facilitates bowel movements. Drinking clear
liquids to stay hydrated and flush out pollutants, such as water, herbal teas,
or electrolyte solutions. Sports drinks that include electrolytes are another
excellent source of rehydration for your body.
The Use of Probiotics
Probiotics are a class of beneficial microorganisms that can
help with digestion and support a strong immune system. Probiotics can be found
in dairy products, yogurt, and other meals that contain cultured milk.
Apple cider vinegar is one example of a fermented liquid
that contains probiotics. Additionally, you can take probiotic supplements. In
situations where an infection is the cause of the upset stomach, probiotics can
also be helpful in reducing symptoms of indigestion and upset stomach.
A Heating Pad
Any strained stomach muscles that are contributing to an
upset stomach can be eased by applying heat from a heating pad or a warm
compress. Usually, this type of treatment is recommended for IBS-related cramps
as well as monthly cramps.
View More: The Best Tea for Stomach Ulcers
Licorice
In addition, Licorice as a home treatment for easing
gastrointestinal discomfort. Because natural licorice contains glycyrrhizin,
which has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities, it can
assist with stomach pain associated with digestion problems and acid reflux.
Licorice tea is a beverage that can be consumed, as well as extracts and
capsules. Natural licorice products may be unsafe for expectant mothers to use
because of potential risks to the growing fetus.
Take a Nap
Resting may help relieve your stomach pain whether it is
brought on by a chronic sickness or the things you eat. Getting enough sleep
and relaxing can help the healing process, especially if stress is a
contributing factor.
Ineffective Natural Cures For Upset Stomach
If you're experiencing stomach distress, exercise caution
when following advice on how to ease it. Certain things are only myths that
might have helped certain individuals but aren't actual treatments.
Flat Soda
For those who struggle to stay hydrated, flat soda can
assist. Carbonated soda, on the other hand, can bloat the stomach and induce
acid reflux. But that doesn't imply it's an easy remedy. Caffeine-containing
sodas, for instance, can exacerbate nausea and dehydration. Better
possibilities are electrolyte-fortified sports drinks and water.
Turmeric
One member of the ginger family of spices with a bitter
flavor is turmeric. There is not much evidence to support the benefits of
turmeric, despite the fact that people occasionally take it to heal upset
stomachs.
Aloe Vera Juice
The gel of an aloe vera plant is combined with water to make
aloe vera juice. Not much study backs up the claim that it soothes stomach
pain, despite the fact that it is frequently claimed to help with digestive
problems. Aloe vera juice can also result in diarrhea, which dehydrates the
stomach and causes pain and cramps.
When To Visit A Doctor If You Have A Stomach Ache?
An upset stomach can occasionally be a red flag for a more
serious condition. It is recommended to seek medical assistance to address the
underlying reasons of persistent stomach troubles.
If you have intense abdominal discomfort and any of the
following symptoms, arrange for a ride to the emergency room or urgent care
center:
- Fever
- Bloody stools
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- Skin that looks discolored
- Severe tenderness upon touching the abdomen
Make an appointment with your healthcare practitioner if
your stomach pain persists for many days or if it is causing you concern.
Conclusion
While dealing with an upset stomach can be uncomfortable,
there are effective home remedies to manage the discomfort without visiting a
doctor. For heartburn-related pain, antacids and water can help, while sports
drinks may be beneficial for diarrhea-related pain. However, it's essential to
understand that not all stomach issues are the same. Differentiate between
effective home cures, myths, and when it's necessary to seek medical attention.
Please book an appointment with the best Gastroenterologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.