Gastric pain, what is the risk of complication?
In the majority of cases, stomach aches are mild, that is to say without danger to health. Of low or medium intensity, these pains are transient and fade in a few hours.
However, stomach pain can sometimes be more serious. Certain signs may alert and require medical advice. This is particularly the case when:
- sharp pains in the stomach ;
- persistent stomach pain ;
- frequent stomach pain ;
- gastric pain associated with other symptoms such as vomiting, intense headaches or general fatigue.
Medical examinations are necessary to remove any doubt about any risk of health complications.
Stomach pain, how to treat or prevent it?
Who to consult in case of stomach pain?
Physical examination. If the intensity, duration and frequency of stomach pain increase, it is strongly recommended to contact a general practitioner. A clinical examination makes it possible to make a first diagnosis.
Additional tests. Depending on the diagnosis of the general practitioner, he may request in-depth medical examinations and additional medical advice. A consultation with a gastroenterologist may then be recommended.
How to treat stomach pain?
Different treatments exist to relieve and eliminate stomach pain. Adequate treatment depends on the type of pain and the identified origin. To find out more, see the sheets on the different causes of stomach pain.
Medical treatment
A healthcare professional can prescribe certain medications such as:
- antispasmodics during stomach cramps or spasms;
- analgesics, or analgesics , in case of severe pain in the stomach;
- antisecretory in gastric burns;
- antihistamines to reduce stomach acid;
- proton pump inhibitors to inhibit acid production;
- antibiotics in case of infection.
Complementary approaches
Stomach pain can also be relieved with herbal medicine, homeopathy or aromatherapy.
stomach surgery
In the most serious cases, surgery on the stomach may be necessary.
How to prevent stomach pain?
Some precautionary measures can prevent the occurrence of gastric pain:
- Adopt a healthy and balanced diet;
- Avoid the consumption of acidic or irritating foods;
- Limit meals that are too large, too fatty, too sweet or too spicy;
- Eat slowly, taking time to chew food
- Limit stress factors;
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
