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How to Relieve Upper Stomach Pain Immediately?

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Written by Hexahealth Care Team, last updated on 2 July 2024| min read
How to Relieve Upper Stomach Pain Immediately?

Quick Summary

  • Upper stomach pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors.
  • Symptoms of upper stomach pain can range from mild to severe and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and loss of appetite.
  • There are a number of home remedies that can help to relieve upper stomach pain, including drinking plenty of fluids, eating bland foods, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers.

Are you looking for an answer to your question about how to relieve upper stomach pain? You have landed on the right page. Both adults and children frequently experience upper stomach pain. There are numerous potential causes of upper stomach pain.

Stomach pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, and loss of appetite. To know more about how to relieve upper stomach pain immediately, continue reading the article.

What is Upper Stomach Pain?

Before knowing how to relieve upper stomach pain immediately, let’s know what upper stomach pain is. Upper stomach pain is discomfort or pain that is felt in the upper part of the abdomen, just below the ribcage. The organs present in the upper stomach include the stomach, liver, pancreas, and small intestine. Problems with these organs and nearby structures, such as the gallbladder, bile ducts, and spleen, may cause upper stomach pain.

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What causes upper stomach pain? 

Upper stomach pain can be caused by various factors, including digestive issues, abdominal conditions, and medical conditions affecting other organs. There are several possible causes of upper stomach pain, including:

  1. Indigestion: Gas can cause upper stomach pain, bloating, and discomfort.
  2. Food poisoning: Contaminated food can lead to stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
  3. Ulcers: Ulcers, which are sores on the lining of the stomach or small intestine, can cause upper stomach pain.
  4. Constipation: Constipation can cause pain and discomfort in the upper stomach due to the buildup of waste in the intestines.
  5. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): IBD is a group of disorders that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as upper stomach pain, diarrhoea, and weight loss.
  6. Liver problems: Liver conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis can cause upper stomach pain.
  7. Pancreatitis: This is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause upper stomach pain and other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever.
  8. Gallstones: Gallstones are hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder and cause upper stomach pain.
  9. Hernias: Hernias, which are protrusions of abdominal organs through a weak point in the abdominal muscles, can cause upper stomach pain.

Home Remedies for how to relieve upper stomach pain

Let’s read about abdominal pain remedies to know how to relieve upper stomach pain immediately. These are listed below in the given table.

Home Remedy

Potential cause Benefit

Drinking at least 3-4 litres of water

Dehydration, constipation

It helps to flush out toxins and improve digestion
Applying heat to the affected area Muscle spasms, cramping It can help to relax muscles and reduce pain
Avoid overeating Digestive issues, irritation It can help to allow the digestive system to rest and heal.
Avoid drinking alcohol Stress, peer pressure, boredom, taste or enjoyment, genetics, mental health issues, etc. Reduced risk of addiction, reduced risk of various diseases (e.g. liver disease, cancer), etc.
Avoid Smoking addiction to nicotine, taste or enjoyment, mental health issues, etc. Better physical and mental health improved breathing, and cardiovascular function, reduced risk of various diseases (e.g. lung cancer, heart disease),

Several abdominal pain remedies may help alleviate any discomfort in the abdomen. However, it is essential to note that abdominal pain can signify a severe medical condition. You should consult a healthcare provider before trying an upper stomach pain remedy if the pain is severe, persistent, or followed by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or blood in the stool.

Surgical and Non-Surgical ways to relieve upper stomach pain

Let’s know how to relieve upper stomach pain. Upper stomach pain can be reduced through surgical and non-surgical methods. The appropriate way will depend on the underlying cause of the pain and the severity of the symptoms and gives an idea about how to relieve upper stomach pain immediately.

Here is a table of surgical and non-surgical methods that may be used to relieve upper stomach pain:

Potential cause

Surgical method
Appendicitis Appendectomy
Gallstones

Gallbladder removal

Hernia Hernia repair
Peptic ulcer Ulcer surgery

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), blockage, cancer

Bowel resection
Gastrointestinal bleeding, blockage, inflammation, cancer Laparotomy
Abdominal pain, blockage, inflammation, cancer

Laparoscopy

 

Several non-surgical options can be used to relieve upper stomach pain. Here is a table of surgical methods that may be used to relieve upper stomach pain:

Potential cause

Non-Surgical method

Acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion

Antacids
Pain, Inflammation

Over-the-counter pain medication

Muscle spasms, cramping Heat therapy

Digestive issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Changes in diet and lifestyle
Dysbiosis, IBD

Probiotics

Muscle spasms, cramping

Antispasmodics

Homoeopathic and Ayurvedic medicine to relieve upper stomach pain

Homoeopathic and Ayurvedic medicine may be used to alleviate upper stomach pain. However, it is important to note that homoeopathic and Ayurvedic medicine are not scientifically proven effective for all conditions. They should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based medical treatment and don’t give a surety about how to relieve upper stomach pain immediately.

Here is a table of allopathic, homoeopathic, and ayurvedic medicine that may be used to relieve upper stomach pain:

Allopathic medicine Homoeopathic medicine Ayurvedic medicine Conditions treated

Antacids

Nux vomica Triphala indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux
Acid blockers Carbo vegetabilis Doshas acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Antispasmodics Colocynthis Ayurvedic herbs irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colitis, and dysmenorrhea

Over the Counter 

Medicines

                     - Ayurvedic oils indigestion, acid reflux, abdominal cramping, and inflammation

Takeaway

Upper stomach pain can be a discomforting and terrifying experience. However, there are various steps you can take to alleviate the pain immediately. Firstly, it is essential to identify the cause of the pain, as it may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. If the pain is caused by indigestion or gas, you can try simple remedies such as drinking peppermint tea or warm water with lemon and ginger or taking over-the-counter antacids.

If the pain is caused due to muscle tension, you can try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or gentle stretching. If you have doubts about how to relieve upper stomach pain, immediately contact our team of experts at HexaHealth. Our expert team of doctors can consult you and provide you with the proper treatment. Get in touch with us TODAY!

Frequently Asked Questions

Try lying down on your left side and drinking warm water with lemon juice and honey to relieve upper stomach pain immediately. Avoid spicy or greasy foods, and if the pain persists, consult a doctor.

Relieve upper stomach pain by identifying the cause, such as indigestion or muscle tension. Try remedies like peppermint tea, antacids, deep breathing, or gentle stretching. Maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and avoid triggers. If pain persists or is accompanied by symptoms, seek medical attention.

Upper stomach pain can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, managing stress, avoiding smoking, and staying active. It's also crucial to seek medical attention if you experience chronic or severe stomach pain to identify and treat underlying conditions.

Various conditions, such as indigestion, acid reflux, ulcers, gastritis, and stomach infections, can cause upper stomach pain. It can also signify a more severe condition, such as a stomach or duodenal ulcer, stomach cancer, or a blockage in the stomach or small intestine. 

Suppose you experience severe, sudden, or persistent upper stomach pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms such as fever. In that case, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately, as it may indicate a severe underlying condition such as appendicitis, pancreatitis, or gallstones.

The duration of upper stomach pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some conditions may resolve quickly, while others may take longer to heal. It is crucial to seek medical attention if the pain stays for more than a few days or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting or fever.

The best remedies for abdominal pain depend on the underlying cause. Drinking water and eating a healthy diet can also help. Resting and avoiding activities that may exacerbate the pain can also be helpful.

Various organs, including the stomach, small intestine, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder, can cause upper abdominal pain. Gastrointestinal issues, such as indigestion, acid reflux, or ulcers, can cause upper abdominal pain. 

To minimize the risk of upper stomach pain, avoid foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy or fatty foods, and limit alcohol and caffeine consumption. Eat smaller, more frequent meals, and avoid lying down immediately after eating. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking can also help to reduce the risk of upper stomach pain.

Ginger and peppermint tea, bananas, brown rice, and plain yoghurt can help alleviate upper stomach pain. Avoid spicy, fried, and processed foods. It's also important to stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals.

Avoiding spicy, greasy, processed, and high-fibre foods can alleviate abdominal pain. Also, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can worsen the symptoms. Consult a doctor if the pain persists.

Upper stomach pain can have various causes and may be curable depending on the underlying condition. Reasons may include acid reflux, gas, indigestion, or an infection. It's essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery may be needed to alleviate the pain.

Easy ways to treat stomach pain include:

  1. Drinking water
  2. Ginger or peppermint tea
  3. Avoid spicy or fatty foods
  4. Using a heating pad on the stomach

It's also essential to get enough rest and practice stress-management techniques. Consult a doctor if the pain persists.

Last Updated on: 2 July 2024

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and learning purposes only. It doesn't cover every medical condition and might not be relevant to your personal situation. This information isn't medical advice, isn't meant for diagnosing any condition, and shouldn't replace talking to a certified medical or healthcare professional.

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

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HexaHealth Care Team

HexaHealth Care Team brings you medical content covering many important conditions, procedures falling under different medical specialities. The content published is thoroughly reviewed by our panel of qualified doctors for its accuracy and relevance.

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