Stomach Pain? Here’s What a Gastro Doctor Would Never Do

Stomach pain is one of those things everyone experiences at some point, from minor bloating to intense cramps. According to the American Gastroenterological Association, more than 60 million Americans experience abdominal discomfort each month. That’s a staggering number of people trying to figure out whether it’s something they ate or an underlying issue they should pay closer attention to what makes stomach pain particularly challenging to address is its wide range of potential causes.

 While mild discomfort may just mean you need to tweak your diet, other cases can indicate something far more serious, such as appendicitis, gallstones, or an ulcer. Unfortunately, people tend to misjudge or ignore certain symptoms, hoping they’ll disappear on their own.

Agitation: The Risks of Dismissing Stomach Pain — Or Handling It Wrong

The trouble is, ignoring or self-diagnosing stomach pain can lead to major complications. Case in point: consider what happened to Anna, a 42-year-old woman with intermittent, mild stomach pain. Assuming it was just stress-induced, she took over-the-counter pain relievers and tried home remedies. Weeks later, her pain escalated dramatically, and after an emergency trip to the hospital, she discovered she had a perforated ulcer that required immediate surgery.

Anna’s story is more common than we might think. Studies from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) show that up to 10% of emergency room visits related to abdominal pain are ultimately diagnosed as serious conditions requiring intervention. By attempting to “tough it out” or self-treat without guidance, patients risk worsening their condition, delaying effective care, and increasing their recovery time.

The #1 Thing To Never Do If You Have Stomach Pain

If there’s one action I, as a gastro doctor, would never recommend, it’s relying on painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs to deal with stomach pain. It’s a common mistake, and while these medications may provide temporary relief, they often aggravate stomach conditions rather than relieve them. NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and other serious conditions. In Anna’s case, using over-the-counter painkillers worsened her ulcer, leading to her hospitalization.

Research from Harvard Medical School highlights how relying on NSAIDs without professional guidance can erode the stomach lining, creating a high risk of peptic ulcers, particularly for those who already experience digestive discomfort. For those with existing conditions like acid reflux, these drugs only heighten the chance of complications.

Solution: How to Handle Stomach Pain Safely — And When To Seek Help

When you’re faced with stomach pain, try a more cautious, holistic approach to understanding and addressing the cause. Here’s a guide to what I would recommend instead:

Identify Patterns and Triggers:

Keep track of your symptoms, and look for patterns. Does the pain occur after certain meals, at particular times of day, or under stress? Triggers can include foods, lifestyle habits, and stress, each affecting the digestive system differently. For example, if spicy or fatty foods cause your pain, it may be related to acid reflux or gallbladder issues.

Consider Your Hydration and Eating Habits:

Sometimes stomach pain is due to dehydration, as the digestive system relies on water to process food. Hydrating adequately and chewing slowly can help prevent indigestion, one of the most common causes of stomach pain.

Avoid OTC Painkillers and Seek Alternatives:

Instead of reaching for NSAIDs, consider gentler options like a warm compress, which can relax abdominal muscles, or a soothing tea, such as ginger or peppermint, known to help with digestion. Another alternative is using antacids but only after consulting a healthcare professional. Remember, though, these methods are temporary; if the pain persists, professional diagnosis is essential.

Consult a Gastroenterologist When Necessary:

If your pain is severe, lasts more than a few days, or accompanies symptoms like vomiting, fever, or blood in stools, reach out to a gastroenterologist immediately. Timely intervention is critical for stomach conditions since they can escalate quickly.

Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Digestive Health:

An anti-inflammatory diet high in fiber, whole grains, and lean proteins can prevent common causes of stomach pain like constipation and bloating. Research by the NIDDK shows that incorporating fiber-rich foods can reduce the chances of developing diverticulitis and similar digestive conditions, lowering the risk of pain episodes overall.

Final Thoughts

Your stomach is a powerful yet sensitive system; treat it with care. By understanding triggers, avoiding quick fixes like NSAIDs, and seeking professional guidance when symptoms persist, you can handle stomach pain safely. The 1 rule to remember: don’t ignore your pain, and don’t mask it with painkillers. Listening to your body and getting a clear diagnosis can prevent complications, ensuring you stay both informed and healthy.