Family Home Remedies and Secret Formulas Handbook - Modern Family Encyclopedia

Author: He Tiannan, Li Xiufang / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: Home Treatment for Stomach Pain
1. Do Not Lie Down
When you feel uncomfortable, you might want to lie down and rest. However, avoid lying flat. Stay upright to make it easier for stomach acid to remain in your stomach. If you must lie down, such as when sleeping, it’s best to elevate your head by about 10–15 cm. You can use stones to support the bed legs or place them under the mattress. Raising pillows is not as effective, as this creates a slightly inclined sleeping position to help prevent stomach pain from recurring.
2. Precautions When Taking Medication
Antacids sold in pharmacies can quickly relieve discomfort for occasional stomach pain. Most over-the-counter digestive aids are safe and effective. Experts often recommend a mixture of magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide. The former can cause constipation, while the latter may lead to diarrhea. When combined, they neutralize each other’s side effects. Although this mixture rarely has side effects, taking it for more than one and a half months in a row is not advisable. Because antacids are very effective, they may mask more serious problems. Experts believe that liquid antacids, though less convenient than tablet forms, are often more effective.
3. Do Not Eat Dinner Before Bed
Avoid eating dinner within 2 hours of bedtime. A full stomach, combined with gravity, promotes stomach acid reflux into the esophagus.
4. Weight Loss
Excessive fat accumulation in the waist can compress the stomach, causing stomach acid to flow into the esophagus. Additionally, loosening your belt can relieve heartburn, and you can switch to a halter top instead.
5. Medications to Watch Out For
Some prescription medications may worsen heartburn, including certain stimulants and sedatives. If you are experiencing heartburn and are currently taking prescription medication, consult your doctor to assess whether it is appropriate.
6. Eat Less Fatty, Greasy Food
Fatty, fried, and high-fat foods stay in the stomach for longer periods and stimulate excessive stomach acid production. Avoid fatty meats and dairy products to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
7. Eat Less Spicy Food
Spicy food may be the culprit behind stomach pain, but many patients with stomach pain do not experience worsening symptoms after eating spicy food. Of course, many patients still cannot tolerate spicy food.
8. Drink Less Coffee
Coffee, tea, and cola—beverages containing caffeine—may irritate an inflamed esophagus. Caffeine also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter.
9. Quit Smoking
Whether you smoke yourself or are exposed to secondhand smoke, it is harmful. Smoking relaxes your lower esophageal sphincter and increases stomach acid production.
10. Drink Less Soda
Carbonated beverages can expand your stomach, producing the same effect on the lower esophageal sphincter as overeating.
11. Be Mindful of Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons may cause trouble, but their acidity is much weaker compared to stomach acid. Let your stomach decide—avoid them only if they cause discomfort.
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