Everyone has tummy troubles at times. Although things like gas and a rumbly tummy can be embarrassing at times, there are many simple ways to improve your symptoms.
Our AFC Urgent Care Gastonia team shares some helpful information about the digestive system and what you can do to benefit yours below, so keep reading!
How Does the Gastrointestinal (GI) System Work?
The gastrointestinal system runs from the mouth to the anus. When you eat or drink, digestion begins in your mouth, where saliva starts to break down food when you chew. When you swallow, it passes through the esophagus to the stomach.
Your stomach breaks food down using stomach acids. The food and drink then moves into the small intestines, where it’s broken down even more and nutrients are absorbed. It then enters the large intestine, where water is absorbed, and then exits the body through the rectum and anus. If you start to experience stomach pain after you eat or drink, we’ve listed some of the common causes below.
Most Common Causes of Stomach Pain
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Gas and bloating
- Stomach virus
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Food poisoning
- Food allergies
- Urinary tract infection
- Abdominal muscle strain or pull
How Can I Treat Stomach Pain?
Effective treatment really depends on what is causing you pain, but there are several things you can do at home that will help ease symptoms across the board. We’ve listed them in the section below.
If you start to experience intense stomach pain that lasts for several hours or doesn’t go away for at least 24 hours, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center. We can provide the care you need!
Ways to Ease Stomach Pain
- Drink plenty of water and other clear fluids.
- Reduce your intake of coffee, tea and alcohol, as these can make the pain worse.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Try over-the-counter antacids, which can reduce some types of stomach pain.
Our AFC Urgent Care Gastonia team is here for you now and always! Don’t hesitate to visit us today.
