What to do about stomach pain

Stomach pain is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors, including but not limited to hunger, excess stomach acid, gastritis, peptic ulcer, or stress reactions.

For stomach pain caused by hunger, it is advisable to consume an appropriate amount of soft, easily digestible foods, such as bread or biscuits. However, milk and hard foods should be avoided as they may worsen the pain. The diet should be light, and options such as glutinous rice porridge or pumpkin porridge can be chosen. Spicy and irritating foods, such as chili peppers and pepper, should be avoided as much as possible.

Applying heat therapy is suitable for stomach pain caused by exposure to cold wind or cold accumulation in the stomach. If the stomach pain is caused by gastric spasm, massage may be performed under the guidance of a professional doctor to improve circulation and alleviate pain. For stomach pain caused by specific conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcer, corresponding medications, such as omeprazole or sodium rabeprazole, may be taken under a doctor's guidance to inhibit gastric acid secretion and promote healing of the gastric mucosa.

For occasional stomach pain, over-the-counter medications such as antacids or gastric mucosal protectants can be used to relieve symptoms. However, if stomach pain occurs frequently or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as severe vomiting, black stool, persistent pain, or sudden weight loss, prompt medical attention should be sought for further examination and treatment to rule out more serious conditions.