Stomach pain (Abdominal Pain) - Causes, Treatment, Diagnosis & Home remedies

Treatment of Acute Abdomen and Stomach Pain

Treatment of abdominal pain requires treatment of the underlying issue. A stomach ache that resolves within 24 to 48 hours does not require any treatment, except supportive treatment. In most cases, abdominal pain requires:

Bowel Comfort:

•  Medications: Over-the-counter remedies such as antidiarrheal drugs (e.g., loperamide) or medications to alleviate constipation (e.g., stool softeners, laxatives) may be used depending on the nature of bowel discomfort.
• Dietary changes: Incorporating foods rich in soluble fibre (e.g., oats, apples, bananas) can help regulate bowel movements and ease discomfort associated with diarrhoea or constipation. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy or greasy foods may also be beneficial.

Staying Hydrated:

• Oral rehydration solutions: These solutions contain a precise balance of electrolytes (such as sodium and potassium) and glucose to help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to diarrhoea or vomiting.
• Clear fluids: Sipping on clear fluids like water, herbal teas, broth, or electrolyte-rich beverages (e.g., sports drinks) can help prevent dehydration and maintain hydration levels.

Heat Therapy for Gynaecological Concerns:

• Heating pads: Applying a heating pad or warm compress to the lower abdomen can help alleviate menstrual cramps or abdominal discomfort associated with gynecological conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Warm baths: Soaking in a warm bath can also provide relief from gynaecological-related abdominal pain by relaxing muscles and promoting blood flow to the pelvic area.

Home-remedies:

• Peppermint tea: Peppermint has natural antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, providing relief from abdominal cramps and discomfort.
• Ginger: Ginger tea or ginger supplements may help alleviate nausea and soothe an upset stomach. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties that can help reduce abdominal pain and bloating.
• Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease stomach discomfort, reduce gas, and promote relaxation.
• Lemon water: Drinking warm lemon water may help stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and reduce abdominal discomfort, particularly when consumed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

Home Remedies for stomach and abdominal pain

There are several tested and tried home remedies for the management of abdominal pain.
Some of the common home remedies include:

• Ginger.
• It is a natural anti-inflammatory root that has been used for centuries in Traditional Medicine to provide relief from stomach aches and pains.
• Although it is best to chew on fresh ginger for your stomach ache, you can also consume it in tea, chews, and cough drops form.
• Peppermint tea.
• Peppermint is another ingredient that works wonders for stomach ailments.
• The heat from the peppermint tea with the antioxidant properties of peppermint work together to provide almost immediate relief from abdominal pain.

Chamomile tea:

• Chamomile tea is known for its relaxing properties.
• These relaxing properties don’t just work against your mental stress but also work on gastric stress.
• Eating unhealthy foods and not maintaining a balanced diet can put immense stress on the stomach.
• A warm cup of chamomile tea can help relieve stomach ache and alleviate other associated symptoms.
• Apple cider vinegar.
• Drinking a cup of water with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in can neutralise the stomach and promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the stomach.
• This allows you to improve your overall gut health and not just provide momentary relief from stomach ache and abdominal discomfort.