Severe Stomach Pain
Severe stomach pain can indicate a variety of conditions. As mentioned, if you’re experiencing a sudden episode of intense abdominal pain—whether it’s in the right side, left side, or any other area of the abdomen—it’s important to get checked as soon as possible. It might just be a significant case of food poisoning, but it could also be something more serious like appendicitis, kidney stones, or other issues.
There are different types of pain: dull pain, burning pain, and visceral pain. Sometimes, the source isn’t the stomach itself, but other organs such as the chest or pelvic area, which may radiate pain that feels like it’s coming from the abdomen.
What About Abdominal Bloating?
If abdominal bloating comes with pain—especially sharp or persistent pain—it should be evaluated quickly by a doctor. If there’s no pain, bloating might simply be caused by heavy meals or gas. For many people, bloating is triggered by an overgrowth of yeast (Candida albicans). Candida acts like yeast in dough, causing a bloated feeling. While Candida can be treated, the main approach involves avoiding sugars and refined carbohydrates.
One of the challenges with Candida is that it creates cravings for the very foods that feed it—sugar and carbs—creating a cycle that’s hard to break. That’s why breaking this pattern early is crucial.
Other causes of bloating include:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Problematic foods
- Hormonal changes (e.g., before menstruation)
As long as the cause is known, it’s usually not alarming. But if the cause is unclear, it’s important to consult a doctor.
Stomach Pain in Babies and Children
Stomach pain in children often hurts us parents more. No one wants to see their child, especially a baby, crying from pain. It’s heartbreaking to watch a child struggling with constipation or cramps. Stomach pain is very common in infants, especially during dietary transitions—like switching from breast milk to formula or solid foods.
In most cases, stomach pain in children is caused by gas. They may struggle to pass it, so the best remedy is often gentle exercises or belly massages to help them release the gas. While natural remedies and medications do exist, it’s often best to try non-medical techniques first.
Natural Remedies for Stomach Pain
Natural treatments should only be considered after ruling out any serious underlying issues. If the pain is intense, seek medical attention first.
While there are plenty of over-the-counter painkillers, natural medicine often connects stomach pain to emotional stress. If you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or emotional tension, calming the mind can do wonders. In many cases, relaxation alone can reduce or even eliminate symptoms.
Since most stomach pain is linked to digestion, improving digestion through:
- Healthy diet
- Hydration
- Stress management
- Natural teas and herbal support
can be highly effective. Whether it’s for children or adults, stomach pain is treatable, and there are many ways to ease the discomfort.
Examples