FAQs
The most common causes of abdominal pain or upset stomach can be classified into three general categories: digestive problems, inflammation and female reproduction. Digestive problems: If you experience abdominal pain after you eat, you may have indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, food allergies or food poisoning.
How to get rid of a stomach ache fast? ›
However, some remedies that may help settle an upset stomach include drinking water or clear liquids, eating small and frequent meals, avoiding greasy or spicy foods, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding tobacco and caffeine. Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or antidiarrheal drugs may also provide relief.
What is the best medicine for an upset stomach? ›
Antacids (such as Tums and Rolaids) are a good choice for heartburn and sour stomach. And medicines that contain bismuth subsalicylate (like Pepto-Bismol) can help treat diarrhea and nausea. If you're not sure which medicine to take for your upset stomach, talk with your healthcare professional.
What causes an upset stomach? ›
This kind of pain stems from a digestion issue, menstruation, or a passing virus. For example: Digestion issues, including indigestion, gas, constipation, diarrhea, food allergies, and food poisoning, are all extremely common causes of stomach pain.
How long does upset stomach last? ›
Depending on the cause, viral gastroenteritis symptoms may appear within 1-3 days after you're infected and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms usually last just a day or two, but occasionally they may last up to 14 days.
What can I eat or drink to settle an upset stomach? ›
If you have an upset stomach, you can try eating bland carbohydrates, like the BRAT diet. This involves eating bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast — or other bland carbohydrates that are easy to digest, like plain crackers and broth.
What settles an upset stomach quickly over-the-counter? ›
Over-the-Counter Medications
For cramping from diarrhea, medicines that have loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol) might make you feel better. For other types of pain, acetaminophen (Aspirin Free Anacin, Liquiprin, Panadol, Tylenol) might be helpful.
How to lay down to relieve stomach pain? ›
Sleep professionals agree that sleeping on your back and left side is best for digestion and pain management. While knowing what side to lay on when your stomach hurts can help you avoid further discomfort, it is ultimately your body that will make the decision of what feels right.
What kills the stomach virus? ›
There's often no specific medical treatment for viral gastroenteritis. Antibiotics aren't effective against viruses. Treatment first involves self-care measures, such as staying hydrated.
Why is my stomach upset but I'm not sick? ›
Stress, worrying and anxiety are common causes of stomach discomfort and other gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. It's usually temporary and not serious. However, chronic stress and anxiety can take a toll on the digestive system and could lead to more serious, long-term stomach problems.
Some people find that the bubbles in carbonated drinks help soothe an upset stomach, in part by making it easier for them to burp and release stomach pressure. For others, gas and acidity can make matters worse. If you're not sure how these drinks affect you, sip them slowly and cautiously.
