Anyone who has ever had abdominal pain knows that the pulling in the abdomen is highly unpleasant. But the treatment of abdominal discomfort is not always easy, because behind the pain can be the most diverse causes: Starting from stress and hectic to a gastrointestinal infection to spinal problems or an allergy. The reasons for abdominal discomfort can be varied.
Abdominal discomfort is a symptom
If you have abdominal discomfort, you should always keep in mind that it is not a disease, but a symptom of a disease. Often, the cause of the discomfort is harmless and the abdominal pain can be managed with a few simple tricks. In order to alleviate your abdominal discomfort, we have put together a varied program for you, with which you can release cramps in the stomach area and alleviate your pain. The tips can be used individually or in combination. For each tip, you should decide according to your own feelings whether the measure seems pleasant to you or not. If your stomach pain persists over a long period of time and cannot be calmed with home remedies, you should consult a doctor so that he can clarify the exact cause of your discomfort.
Tip 1: Hot water bottle
For abdominal discomfort, a hot water bottle can soften the pain and provide relaxation. The warm water in the hot water bottle inhibits the pain receptors and consequently the pain is no longer perceived as strong. In addition, the warmth promotes blood flow to the tissues. The improved blood circulation allows the muscles to relax and decramp. As an alternative to a hot water bottle, you can also use a cherry pit pillow, which can be heated in the oven or microwave.
Tip 2: Belly wrap
In addition to a hot water bottle or a cherry pit pillow, a warm belly wrap can also help relieve discomfort in the abdominal area. For a classic belly wrap, you should have three different cloths on hand: A sheet is placed directly on the abdomen, which has previously been dipped in hot water and then wrung out vigorously. A cotton cloth is placed in between, and a woolen cloth is placed on the outside of the belly wrap. The wrap should be left on for at least 30 minutes.
Tip 3: Stomach soothing tea
There are a wide variety of teas whose ingredients are said to have a stomach-calming effect. These include fennel tea, chamomile tea as well as sage tea. Chamomile soothes the stomach lining, fennel has an antispasmodic effect and sage has an antibacterial effect. In addition, peppermint tea and lemon balm tea are also recommended for stomach complaints. Alternatively, you can use a special stomach tea from a drugstore or pharmacy. And: the spice cardamom also has a soothing effect on the stomach. Simply add a pinch of the spice to your tea.
Tip 4: Exercise
Just like a hot water bottle, exercise also leads to improved blood flow to the muscles. As a result, cramps can be released and the muscles relax. Gentle forms of exercise such as yoga, Pilates or gymnastics are particularly suitable for stomach pain. In addition, moderate jogging or swimming are also recommended.
Tip 5: Refrain from alcohol, cigarettes and coffee.
The consumption of coffee, cigarettes or alcohol can further aggravate already existing stomach complaints, as their consumption irritates the stomach. That’s why it’s better to avoid these substances when you’re experiencing acute stomach discomfort. By the way, the stomach can also be irritated by taking certain painkillers. Therefore, before taking painkillers, you should consult with your doctor about possible side effects.
Tip 6: The right food
If you have problems with the stomach, you should pay very special attention to your diet to prevent unnecessary stress on the gastrointestinal tract. Above all, it is important to avoid heavy and fatty foods. On the other hand, it is advisable to eat easily digestible foods that do not put a strain on the digestive system. These include, for example, rusks, potatoes, rice, carrots, bananas, apples and pears, as well as veal, poultry or trout.
Tip 7: Hot bath
A hot full bath has both an analgesic and relaxing effect on the cramped abdominal muscles in case of abdominal discomfort. Lavender and yarrow are particularly suitable as bath additives.
- Bath with lavender: put a handful of lavender in a pot, add two liters of water and bring the water to a boil. Then infuse for fifteen minutes and then add the lavender essence to the bath water.
- Bath with yarrow: put 100 grams of yarrow in a bowl and then pour half a liter of boiling water over it. Infuse for ten minutes and then add to the bath water.
