Stomach ache, or abdominal pain, typically occurs between your chest and groin. This area is referred to as the belly or stomach area. Though commonly experienced by all human beings, stomach ache creates one of the most uncomfortable situations to be in, especially if you don’t know how to relieve it. This is why it is so important that you identify the actual stomach pain causes so as to find the right remedy for it.
Apart from the packet of candies you just chowed down, there can be several other causes of a stomach ache.
Before anything else, here are the four primary kinds of pain you’re likely to experience:
Localized Pain
It is felt in a specific area in your belly, usually indicating a problem in an organ such as the gallbladder, appendix, or stomach itself.
Colicky Pain
This type of pain usually indicates an underlying problem related to gallstones or kidney stones. It comes and goes in sudden and often severe waves.
Generalized Pain
This type of pain usually occurs in the overall belly area. If not treated at the right time, it may lead to a blockage of the intestines.
Cramp-like pain
This is one of the most common types of stomach pain that is easily treatable at home. It usually arises due to bloating and gas issues and may lead to diarrhea.
Stomach Ache – Causes
From constipation and indigestion to gas and a stomach virus, the causes of abdominal pain are many. In women, it could be due to menstruation as well. Besides, other possible causes of stomach pain include:
- Food allergies
- Abdominal muscle strain
- Food poisoning
- Ulcers
- Stomach flu
- Hernia
- Gallstones
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Pancreatitis
- Appendicitis
- Kidney Stones
Stomach Ache – Remedies You Can Try At Home
Regardless of the type of stomach ache, you can easily find relief through home remedies in most cases. When it comes to minor stomach pain, it often goes away in an hour or two on its own.
But if you suffer from a stubborn stomach ache that just won’t leave you, here’s what you can do:
Ginger
Commonly used since ancient times, ginger offers tons of health benefits. From nausea to pain, it can be used as a cure-for-all medicine. Since it’s packed with anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can be used in several forms to cure some kinds of stomach upset.
Heating Pad
This remedy proves most beneficial in cases of stomach cramps or menstrual cramps. Just cuddle an electric blanket or place a heating pad on the affected area. The warmth will help relax your stomach muscles, thereby relieving any pain or cramping.
Peppermint
Try having a cup of freshly-brewed peppermint tea or chew on a spearmint candy. This plant is known as a natural pain reliever and can help cure an upset stomach.
Bananas
Bananas can help ease muscle spasms, pain, and cramps. Thanks to its rich content of folate, vitamin B6, and potassium! You can also opt for this remedy if you’re suffering from diarrhoea.
At the end of the day, if nothing helps, don’t hesitate to call or visit your doctor!
