Maybe this happens just when you are really stressed out, or maybe your stomach just doesn’t feel right for a while after a bad case of the stomach flu. Just because you don’t have it as bad as those heart-breaking stories you read about, or maybe as bad as you have had it in the past, doesn’t mean that there is nothing you can do. Read on for some simple ways to get your system back to normal.
Invest in a hot water bottle or heating pad so that you will have this option whenever your belly acts up. Just be sure to protect your skin with a towel or a layer of clothing to prevent a burn.
The best tea to use to soothe abdominal symptoms, hands down, is peppermint tea. Peppermint has been clinically shown to act as an antispasmodic, meaning that it eases cramping and thus relieves abdominal pain.
Because our digestive systems are closely connected to this stress response system, it is quite common to experience unpleasant intestinal symptoms during times in our lives when our stress levels are higher, especially for those with IBS. Luckily, there are ways for you to counteract or turn off the stress response. Relaxation techniques are a simple, do-anywhere, non-drug method for calming your body and quieting your system. Learn how to use visualization, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation.
If you have any of the following red-flag symptoms, call your healthcare provider immediately:
Blood in the stool High fever Persistent severe vomiting Severe stomach pain
These symptoms must always be checked out as they can point to a condition or illness that needs immediate treatment.
