What causes nausea and upset stomach after taking probiotics, and what should be done?

Jun 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, nausea and stomach upset after taking probiotics may be caused by factors such as abdominal chilling, excessive mental stress, menstruation, excessive dosage, or drug side effects. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and, under a doctor's guidance, improve symptoms through general management, medication, or other treatments. When treating nausea and stomach discomfort following probiotic intake, an appropriate treatment method should be chosen based on individual circumstances.

Generally, nausea and stomach discomfort after taking probiotics may be caused by factors such as a cold abdomen, excessive mental stress, menstruation, excessive dosage, or drug side effects. It is recommended to seek medical advice promptly and improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management or medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Cold abdomen

Frequent consumption of cold foods or prolonged exposure to cold environments may lead to a cold abdomen, causing irritation of the duodenum or colon, which in turn results in nausea and stomach upset after taking probiotics. It is advised to keep the abdomen warm, avoid raw, cold, and stimulating foods, maintain proper local blood circulation, and improve the intestinal environment.

2. Excessive mental stress

Excessive mental stress caused by various physiological or pathological factors may trigger the body to secrete hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can stimulate intestinal contractions and subsequently lead to nausea and stomach discomfort after taking probiotics. It is recommended to maintain emotional well-being, engage in moderate exercise, and communicate feelings with others regularly.

3. Menstruation

During menstruation, the shedding and expulsion of the uterine lining are facilitated by uterine contractions, which may cause pain and consequently lead to nausea and stomach upset after taking probiotics. This may be accompanied by back pain, headaches, and mood swings. Mild menstrual pain can be relieved with heat application. Medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, or hydrocortisone tablets may be used as directed by a physician. If the pain is severe, prompt medical attention is advised.

4. Excessive dosage

Taking an excessive amount of probiotics at one time may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset. It is recommended to drink more warm water to help promote drug metabolism and absorption, which may alleviate symptoms. If symptoms are severe, prompt medical consultation is advised.

5. Drug side effects

Due to individual differences in constitution and drug tolerance, some patients may experience side effects after taking probiotics. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and stomach upset. If adverse reactions are severe, patients should immediately discontinue use and seek medical attention if necessary.

When treating nausea and stomach discomfort after taking probiotics, individuals should choose appropriate treatment methods based on their specific conditions. At the same time, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mindset is essential.

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