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What are the Different Remedies for a Stomach Ache?
Most of the time, a stomach ache can be treated at home without the need to see a doctor. Remedies for a stomach ache depend on the cause of the pain. For pain caused by indigestion or an upset stomach, taking an antacid may help relieve symptoms. A stomach ache caused by constipation can be treated with laxatives or by increasing the amount of fiber a person eats. Drinking plenty of fluids is a great remedy for many causes of stomach pain.
A person can easily become dehydrated when suffering from a stomach ache, especially if the stomach ache leads to vomiting or diarrhea. Fluids such as water, fruit juice, and caffeine-free sodas are effective remedies for a stomach ache. Hot herbal teas, such as peppermint tea or ginger tea, may also effectively treat a stomach ache caused by indigestion. To get the best benefit from the liquids, a person should take small sips frequently throughout the day. Drinking enough liquid also helps relieve stomach pain caused by constipation.
Several remedies for a stomach ache are available over the counter. Bismuth salicylate helps relieve the symptoms of diarrhea and upset stomach. It's commonly found in the form of a thick, pink liquid, though it is also available in pill or chewable tablet form. Although it is often a quick and effective remedy, bismuth salicylate shouldn't be taken by someone who is allergic to aspirin.
Other remedies for a stomach ache include eating mild foods and avoiding certain trigger foods. People who suffer from stomach pain caused by irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease may find that avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, or dairy keeps the pain away. Those who have celiac disease usually have few symptoms when they avoid gluten, which is found in wheat products.
Sometimes a stomach ache results from eating too much food too quickly. People with stomach pain caused by overeating may find that eating smaller, more frequent meals cures the pain. A person should eat slowly and thoroughly chew his food to keep stomach aches at bay.
Soaking in a warm tub or placing a warm washcloth on the aching area can also help relieve a stomach ache. For abdominal pains caused by menstrual cramps or ovulation, a woman can try taking a pain reliever such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin. If the pain is caused by indigestion, a person should avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, which can irritate the stomach.
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![Stomach symptoms can be lessened through proper hydration and avoiding spicy foods, and making sure not to eat too much too fast.]()
By: Balint RaduStomach symptoms can be lessened through proper hydration and avoiding spicy foods, and making sure not to eat too much too fast. -
![An antacid may help relieve a stomach ache.]()
By: GreseiAn antacid may help relieve a stomach ache. -
![The right remedy for a stomach ache can depend on the cause.]()
By: Ljupco SmokovskiThe right remedy for a stomach ache can depend on the cause. -
![Peppermint and chamomile teas can sooth upset stomachs.]()
By: unpictPeppermint and chamomile teas can sooth upset stomachs. -
![Ginger tea can be used to relieve nausea and a number of other stomach ailments.]()
By: praisaengGinger tea can be used to relieve nausea and a number of other stomach ailments. -
![Anyone with a stomach ache should avoid taking aspirin or other NSAIDS as they can make it worse.]()
By: pogoniciAnyone with a stomach ache should avoid taking aspirin or other NSAIDS as they can make it worse. -
![A peptic ulcer might be the underlying cause of stomach aches and discomfort.]()
By: AllianceA peptic ulcer might be the underlying cause of stomach aches and discomfort.
Discussion Comments
My mother would always put a hot water bottle on my tummy when I had a stomach ache. She would also make mashed potatoes with butter and mint and lemon tea. It worked every time.
I've discovered that herbal teas that have a relaxing or sedative effect such as lemonbalm tea and chamomile tea, are great for stomach aches.
I get stomach aches when I'm stressed or worried. My doctor said that there is a major nerve that goes through the stomach and that it's normal to have stomach problems when we are emotionally distressed. He recommended lemonbalm tea for me.
I bought the tea right away. I have a cup or two everyday and it has made a huge difference. I have to drink it at night though because it makes me sleepy.
I had chronic stomach aches for years because of GERD. Some things that gave me relief are warm milk, ginger candies or sucking on raw ginger, peppermint herbal tea and aloe vera juice. These are all very soothing for the stomach and help relieve stomach aches, cramps and acidity.
Of course, I also avoided acidic foods like coffee, tea, tomatoes and ketchup, spicy and fried foods. Grilled cheese sandwiches and oatmeal were my favorite foods as they comforted me and did not cause cramps and pain.
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