When Abdominal Pain or Discomfort Strikes - Page 2
To learn more about what might be causing your pain right now, take the RealAge GI Relief Health Assessment. You'll receive personalized recommendations you can discuss with your doctor.
Smart Self-Care
For mild cases of abdominal pain or discomfort, or for a little relief from the pain until you see your doctor, here are six self-help steps you can try. They may help relieve some, but not all, instances of gastrointestinal pain.
- Drink plenty of water, but take infrequent, small sips.
- Avoid foods that are known to exacerbate some causes of abdominal pain, such as gas, diarrhea, constipation, or heartburn. This includes greasy foods, spicy foods, citrus, tomato products, dairy products, and chocolate.
- Cut back on foods and beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine.
- Avoid medications known to irritate the stomach lining, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If your prescription medications cause stomach upset, speak to your doctor before discontinuing them.
- For pain related to stomach acid, try over-the-counter antacids. Gas pain may be relieved with antacids that contain simethicone and activated charcoal.
- After pain subsides, eat a bland diet for a day or so.
Some digestive problems are minor and can be remedied with self-care. Others may require prescription treatments or -- although rare -- may constitute a potential medical emergency. The first step: Speak with your healthcare provider so you can get an accurate diagnosis. If you have regular abdominal troubles, make an appointment today.
