Overview
Stomach pain and diarrhea can be treated after identifying the right cause. Minor underlying conditions, such as allergic reactions, indigestion, or stomach flu, often resolve on their own and don’t require serious medical intervention. In cases of severe medical conditions, such as viral infections or severe intestinal problems, a medical consultation is necessary to obtain a correct diagnosis and a prescription to treat stomach pain and diarrhea. The BRAT diet is considered the first and most straightforward approach to deal with stomach pain and diarrheal conditions, including (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast), says Lena Beal, M.S., RD, LD, for the conditions that do not need a prescription. The BRAT diet, in cases of severe conditions, can be used in conjunction with prescriptions and dosage compliance.
How can I stop my stomach from hurting and diarrhea?
Stomach pain, along with diarrhea, can be due to a number of reasons. Some of the most prominent causes include indigestion, allergic reactions, viral infections, stomach flu, or severe intestinal issues.
It’s essential to determine the cause of an upset stomach, along with diarrhea, for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. After the correct diagnosis, you can only effectively stop your stomach from hurting and causing diarrhea.
The BRAT diet is the first choice for immediate and effective treatment of stomach pain and diarrhea. BRAT’s diet comprises bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, says Lena Beal, M.S., RD, LD.
Other than the diet, some of the different ways to stop the stomach from hurting and diarrhea can be :
- Staying hydrated is also considered one of the most essential remedies recommended by healthcare providers for good gut health.
- Dairy foods can only be one of the leading causes of stomach pain, as they are likely to cause stomach pain.
- To stop the pain or diarrhea, it is best to avoid caffeinated foods, as their active ingredients can sometimes upset the stomach.
What is the best medicine for upset stomach and diarrhea?
The best medications for upset stomachs and diarrhea depend primarily on the underlying cause of the condition. Different drugs are prescribed for each cause. Regardless of the reason, some medicines are considered best and mostly recommended by healthcare providers. Some are lifestyle changes, while others involve OTC medications readily available at any pharmacy.
Following are the best medicines for an upset stomach, along with pain and diarrhea :
- Loperamide (Imodium) is a perfect option for controlling loose stools. The usual recommended dose is 4mg, followed by 2mg immediately after passing a stool. Depending on the severity of your condition, it should be taken 3-4 times a day. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider if you experience excessive bowel movements.
- Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol): This over-the-counter medication is effective for treating various stomach-related issues, including upset stomach, pain, and diarrhea. The only caution that should be taken before taking this medication is the avoidance of this medication in case of pregnancy. Consult your doctor for an upset stomach or diarrhea in pregnancy before taking any medication.
- Antacids (e.g., Tums, Maalox): Over-the-counter medications effectively treat stomach pain and diarrhea.
- Probiotics/Gutcare: Healthcare providers also recommend probiotics/ gutcare for the health of your body’s normal flora, which helps you get the proper nutrients.
- Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are also available over the counter and serve as the best energy source for stabilizing overall health after prolonged diarrhea.
Lifestyle changes to manage stomach pain and diarrhea
Some of the essential lifestyle changes to manage stomach pain and diarrhea are :
Adopt a balanced diet
Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products, should also be included. These assist digestion and ensure that free time is not wasted on piggybacking constipation. Data suggest that systematic avoidance of processed foods, foods with high-fat content, and fried foods can improve stomach health.
Stay hydrated
Drink as many glasses of water as you can throughout the day to help flush toxins from your body. Drinks such as teas prepared from herbs like ginger or peppermint can significantly impact the digestive system. Avoid consuming beverages with added sugars and caffeine, as they can exacerbate or worsen diarrhea.
One should also try to exclude certain foods and drinks, known as trigger foods and beverages, from one’s diet.
As a general rule, it is advisable to reduce consumption of foods that can cause symptoms of dehydration, such as hot spices, fats, and certain types of dairy products. Certain sugar substitutes, such as sorbitol, may cause stomach upset in some individuals. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided or taken in limited quantities because they can aggravate the condition of the already inflamed stomach lining.
Eat smaller, frequent meals
Take small, frequent meals instead of large meals to alleviate the pressure typically placed on the digestive organs. This can be beneficial when trying to avoid bloating and other discomforting sensations. Formulate meals that include proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the proper proportions.
Practice stress management
Engage in less stressful activities, such as yoga, regular meditation, and deep breathing. Stressful lifestyles, in particular, have been associated with adverse effects on digestion, which can cause stomach problems. If stress negatively impacts your health, consulting a counselor or therapist can be beneficial.
Exercise regularly
Evening Strolls, swimming, cycling, and other activities are very effective for our digestive system. Exercise is a pleasure and helps relieve the stress of the day. Try to get at least half an hour of moderate physical activity most days of the week.
Avoid smoking
Smoking hampers blood flow to the stomach lining and, hence, worsens the situation when one has stomach disorders. Smoking is a vice that has severe consequences on every aspect of your life, including your digestion; however, quitting smoking has enormous benefits for your general health. If you are interested in quitting smoking, find help and or resources.
How long should stomach ache and diarrhea last?
It usually lasts only a few days a week without treatment. It resolves independently if it’s due to natural causes, such as dehydration or dietary problems.
It also depends on the cause. Suppose it’s bacterial, viral, stress-related, gut-related, IBS, or H. pylori gastritis, and you’re getting treatment. In that case, your healthcare provider will determine how long your stomach ache and diarrhea will last.
How do I know if my stomach pain is serious?
If it doesn’t resolve on its own within a few days and instead worsens, it is the right time for a medical consultation. If you experience severe stomach pain and diarrhea, consult an online doctor, as these symptoms can indicate a range of other medical conditions.
Consult a doctor
Get connected with an online doctor for long-term or consistent pain along with diarrhea, as it might cause deficiencies and dehydration. Without any serious cause, diarrhea typically lasts 2-3 days in adults, accompanied by a mild stomachache. With serious causes, the duration depends on the nature and severity of the condition.
FAQs about stomach pain and diarrhea
Rice water and other herbal teas, including those with ginger and garlic, are considered the best options for the fast treatment of diarrhea and stomach pain. These teas can help alleviate stomach pain without the need for prescription medication.
The severity of the condition and the cause of stomach pain depend heavily on each other. If the cause is serious and cannot be treated with home remedies, or if the severity of stomach pain is increasing over time, it’s essential to go to the ER.
