Stomach aches are second to back pains when it comes to ailments affecting many people. It can come from various causes, such as gastritis, food allergies, constipation, cramps, and other digestive issues. Most discomforts are harmless and resolve on their own. However, home remedies can help them go away faster. The common treatment is taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications. People can also use drug-free methods like drinking fluids, taking ginger, and using heating pads.
Trying out these methods can help relieve pain while avoiding potential side effects of medicines. Additionally, these home remedies can easily be prepared or done at home. However, persistent stomach aches or sudden onset of severe symptoms require medical attention. Doctors may prescribe drugs when conservative treatments do not work. This article will cover the three basic remedies for abdominal pain, how each method works, and their benefits.
Drinking Fluids For Stomach Pain Relief
Drinking fluids can provide stomach pain relief in several ways. Firstly, staying hydrated helps prevent constipation, a common cause of pain. When the body lacks adequate fluids, the digestive system may not function properly. Drinking herbal tea can help the digestive system work efficiently. Teas also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), IBS (irritable bowel syndrome, and gastroenteritis.
Individuals can also benefit from drinking non-caffeinated sodas and sports drinks with electrolytes. An upset stomach with diarrhoea may result in dehydration. Hence, these beverages can help replenish body liquids. Furthermore, drinking clear fluids is the best treatment for abdominal pain during the first 24 hours. In relation, drinking caffeine can worsen acid reflux, and alcohol can irritate the gut.
Diluted apple cider vinegar is another stomach ache reliever. It contains probiotics that help neutralise upset stomach and ease bloating and reflux. Moreover, it is a convenient remedy that many people have in their kitchens. To use this, mix apple cider vinegar with a cup of water and a teaspoon of honey. Diluting it with water can help prevent increasing its acidity.
Other Teas That Will Help
- Green tea: remedy diarrhea and infection from Helicobacter pylori.
- Black tea: similar to green tea but especially effective for diarrhea.
- Fennel tea: effective for menstrual cramps. It also reduces gas and bloating and promotes healthy digestion.
- Licorice tea: helps heal stomach ulcers.
- Basil tea or tulsi: also effective for ulcers and heartburn.
- Peppermint tea: helps relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Spearmint tea: like peppermint, it relieves digestive distress.
- Chamomile tea: has anti-inflammatory properties and relaxes stomach muscles.
- Lemon tea: contains citric acid that helps prevent viral infections.
- Ginger tea: helps treat digestive issues and alleviates nausea.
Ginger For Stomach Pain Relief
Ginger is a well-known natural stomach pain relief. The powerful root contains gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It helps ease nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach. It also helps reduce cramping and discomfort from inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, fresh ginger can be extracted into lozenges, tinctures, supplements and teas.
Furthermore, ginger contains phytochemicals that help relieve diarrhoea, prevent chills, fight infections, and treat ulcers. Some people use raw ginger to make tea or ale, while others prefer chewing on fresh ginger roots to get rid of abdominal pain. The Food and Drug Administration also recommends taking it naturally, as supplements may be inconsistent.
It can work as a digestive aid by speeding up food movement through the gastrointestinal tract. Ginger stimulates the production of enzymes that help break down food. This can be helpful for people with indigestion and gas pains. In addition, it lessens heartburn by protecting the gastric lining and reducing stomach acid backflow. Lastly, it has a few side effects.
Guidelines For Using Ginger
When taking ginger for abdominal pain, start with a small amount. Begin with one-eight to one-fourth teaspoon of grated ginger. It can have a strong and spicy flavour that may take some time getting used to. Then, increase the amount gradually after getting more comfortable with the taste.
To make tea with ginger, peel and slice fresh ginger roots into thin pieces. Add them to a pot of boiling water and let simmer for ten minutes. Afterwards, turn off the heat and let the tea steep for an additional five minutes. Finally, strain the tea to remove the ginger slices.
Heating Pads For Stomach Pain Relief
Heat therapy is another effective natural relief for stomach pain. Applying heating pads to the abdominal area can help relax the muscles and improve blood flow. Moreover, it helps ease stomach cramps, muscle stiffness and soreness. Many women also use heating pads to relieve period pain. However, it may not be helpful for treating nausea.
Hot packs are helpful for those with allergies such as ginger and peppermint. Likewise, it helps people with adverse reactions to certain medications. Furthermore, heating pads ease pelvic pain and abdominal muscle strain. However, it is important to ensure the temperature is not too hot to avoid burns or further discomfort. Be sure to leave a layer of clothing between the skin and the pads.
Moreover, heat therapy is widely available, making it one of the most accessible options for treating upset stomach. If heating pads are not available, individuals may also use a hot water bottle or soak in a warm bath as an alternative. For effective relief, place the heating pad or water bottle on the abdomen for fifteen minutes.
TENS Therapy As An Alternative
An efficient alternative for stomach pain is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation or TENS. It is a non-invasive and natural form of pain relief using mild electrical currents. The TENS machine has a set of adhesive electrode pads placed on the skin near the pain area.
The device delivers the currents through the electrodes to reach the underlying nerves. It then stimulates the nerves to block the transmission of pain signals and release endorphins. When applied to the abdomen, it can help relax tense muscles and boost circulation. It is also efficient in reducing muscle spasms or cramps associated with menstrual periods.
Conclusion
Stomach pain is one of the common discomforts that many people experience. It occurs for various reasons, such as indigestion, gas, menstruation, food intolerance, and bacterial infections. In addition, it can range from mild to severe pain. Conveniently, there are several home remedies for stomach pain relief that do not involve medicines. The most common and practical method is drinking plenty of fluids. Particularly, herbal teas can help reduce inflammation and flush out toxins.
Ginger is also a well-known natural pain reliever for stomach upset. It contains compounds that help fight infections. Additionally, heat therapy helps relax the muscles and ease tension. Lastly, TENS therapy is a non-invasive form of pain management. It uses mild electrical impulses to block pain signals and reduce discomfort. Healthcare professionals recommend trying these remedies first. However, seek medical attention if the pain persists or worsens despite home treatments.
