Overview
Stomach pain and diarrhea can be treated after identifying the right cause. Minor underlying conditions like allergic reactions, indigestion, or stomach flu go away on their own and don’t need serious medical interventions. In case of severe medical conditions like viral infections or severe intestinal problems, medical consultation is a must to get the correct diagnosis as well as 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. BRAT diet in case of severe conditions can work along 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 can be indigestion, allergic reactions, viral infections, stomach flu, or severe intestinal causes.
It’s very important to figure out the cause of an upset stomach along with diarrhea for appropriate stomach 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 thing to prefer for the 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 other 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 food, as its 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 largely on the underlying cause. Different medications are prescribed for each cause. Regardless of the cause, some medications are considered best and mostly recommended by healthcare providers. Some are lifestyle changes, and some are OTC medications readily available from any pharmacy.
Following are the best medicines for upset stomach along with pain and diarrhea :
- Loperamide (Imodium) is a very good option for controlling loose stools. The usual recommended dose is 4mg, followed by 2mg right after you pass the stool. Depending on the severity of your condition, it should be taken 3-4 times a day. It’s better to consult a healthcare provider in case of excessive bowel movements!
- Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol): This over-the-counter medicine works effectively for any stomach-related problems, including upset stomach, pain, and diarrhea. The only caution that should be taken before taking this medication is avoidance of this medication in case of pregnancy. Consult your doctor for 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 are the best energy source for stabilizing overall health after continuous 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 that are rich in fiber include 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 such as systematic avoidance of processed foods, foods with high-fat content, and foods that are fried as they worsen the stomach.
Stay hydrated
Take as many glasses of water as you can in a day to wash out the toxins from the body. Drinks such as teas prepared from herbs, such as ginger or peppermint, significantly impact the digestive system. Do not take beverages with sugars and caffeine, as they can cause or worsen diarrhea.
One should also try to exclude certain foods and drinks, known as trigger foods and drinks, from one’s diet.
As a rule, it is necessary to reduce the consumption of foods that cause symptoms of dehydration, such as hot spices, fats, and certain types of dairy products. Certain sugar substitutes, like sorbitol, might lead to stomach upset in certain people. 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 and frequent meals instead of large meals to avert the pressure normally placed on the digestion organs. This can be beneficial when trying to avoid bloating and other sensations of discomfort. Formulate meals that include proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in the proper proportions.
Practice stress management
Take less stressful activities, like yoga, regular meditation, and deep breathing. Stressful lifestyles, in particular experts, have associated them with negative effects on digestion, hence causing stomach problems. If stress negatively affects health, turning to a counselor or therapist will be useful.
Exercise regularly
Evening Strolls, swimming, cycling, etc., are very effective for our digestive system. Exercise is pleasing and relieves 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 area 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 like dehydration or diet problems.
It also depends on the cause. If it’s bacterial, viral, stress-related, gut-related, IBS, or H. pylori gastritis and you’re getting treatment, 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 in a few days and instead keeps getting worse, it is the right time for a medical consultation. If you have serious stomach pain and diarrhea, connect with an online doctor, as it can indicate a number 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 will only last for 2-3 days in adults with minor stomach ache, while with serious causes, it depends on the nature and severity of the cause.
FAQs about stomach pain and diarrhea
Rice water and other herbal teas, including ginger and garlic, are considered the best options for fast treatment of diarrhea and stomach pain. These teas can help relieve stomach pain without the aid of prescription medication.
It depends heavily on the cause of stomach pain and the severity of the condition. If the cause is serious and can not be treated by home remedies, or if the severity of stomach pain is increasing with time, it’s important to go to the ER.
