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DESCRIPTION
Acute abdominal pain is not always due to a serious disease. Problems are often caused by food that is hard to digest or that is spoiled. Even mental stress can be felt in the stomach. For a child with a tummy ache, a gentle abdominal massage and some warm herbal tea - along with a little tender attention - may bring relief. However, if the pain is severe, persists over several hours or is accompanied by diarrhea or vomiting, it may be a more serious condition. If the abdomen is hard, tight, and swollen, appendicitis may be present. Other culprits could be bacteria, viruses, worms or other parasitic infestation, or gastrointestinal tumors. Gallstones and infections of the bladder, kidney or ovaries can also cause severe, often colicky pain. In most cases, naturopathy offers effective treatments.
MoonDragon's Pediatric Information: Tummy Aches
CAUSES
Determining the exact cause of abdominal pain can be tricky because there are so many aspects to consider. The best thing to do is to examine the symptoms and their severity and seek medical attention if necessary. See the supplements section below for a list of possible ailments that can lead to abdominal pain.
POSSIBLE CAUSES OF ABDOMINAL PAIN
Abdominal pain and cramping across the abdomen:
- Bladder or kidney disorder.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Premenstrual syndrome.
- Uterine prolapse.
Abdominal pain and cramping around the navel:
- Appendicitis.
- Constipation.
- Gas (flatulence).
Abdominal pain and cramping lower left side:
- Colitis.
- Crohn's disease.
- Diarrhea.
- Diverticulitis.
- Lactose intolerance.
- Ovarian cyst.
- Regional enteritis.
- Uterine fibroids or polyps.
Abdominal pain and cramping lower right side:
- Acute appendicitis.
- Colitis.
- Crohn's disease.
- Uterine fibroids or polyps.
Abdominal pain and cramping upper left side:
- Food allergies.
- Heartburn.
- Hiatal hernia.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Peptic ulcer.
Abdominal pain and cramping upper right side of rib cage:
- Liver problems.
- Gallbladder problems.
Abdominal pain and cramping any location:
- Endometriosis.
- Food poisoning.
- Internal injury.
- Indigestion.
- Miscarriage.
- Stress.
GENERAL BENEFICIAL DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS FOR DIGESTIVE DISORDERS
Digestive Enzymes enhance digestion.
Herbal Remedies: Digestive Enzymes Supplements & Products
Fiber fights constipation, a common cause of abdominal pain.
Herbal Remedies: Fiber Supplements & Products
Astragalus protects the immune system, supports adrenal gland function and aids digestion.
Herbal Remedies: Astragalus Supplements & Products
Cinnamon relieves diarrhea and nausea, and it enhances digestion.
Herbal Remedies: Cinnamon Supplements & Products
Licorice is effective in treating muscle spasms, cramping and pain.
Herbal Remedies: Licorice Supplements & Products
Ginger and Peppermint settle the stomach and stimulate digestion.
Herbal Remedies: Ginger Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Mint / Menthol / Peppermint Supplements & Products
Fennel has been known to relieve abdominal pain.
Herbal Remedies: Fennel Supplements & Products
RELATED DISORDER LINKS
SYMPTOMS OF ABDOMINAL PAIN
Symptoms of abdominal pain include cramping and discomfort in the abdominal region, Diarrhea, vomiting and burning in the stomach and esophagus can also occur. The pain can be generalized or localized and can be felt across the abdomen, around the navel, along the upper and lower sides of the stomach and across the rib cage.
Symptoms may vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition.
POSSIBLE LIFESTYLE CHANGES FOR ABDOMINAL PAIN
Abdominal pain can be prevented by developing regular eating and bowel habits. Avoid chewing gum and drinking carbonated beverages that contribute to swallowing air. Avoid abdominal injuries by always wearing a seat belt whenever driving or riding in a car.
TREATMENT
Treatment of abdominal pain is determined by whatever it is that is causing the symptoms. Most mild abdominal discomfort can be improved by:
- Getting adequate rest.
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding high-fat foods.
If the pain does not subside within a day or so; worsens and becomes more frequent; is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, nausea or fever; or if the pain localizes to one specific area of the abdomen, see a health care provider.
HOLISTIC OPTIONS
A Naturopathic health care practitioner can determine the cause of chronic abdominal pain and can offer various forms of natural treatment. He or she may suggest ingesting some medicinal plant (herbal therapy) or applying gentle abdominal massages with essential oils and compresses to help relieve cramps. Enemas and fasting are often recommended to relieve the burden on digestive organs. Homeopathic treatments include aromatherapy, acupressure and herbs.
For any abdominal pain that becomes a serious problem or is not relieved by simple means as those given here, you will need to be evaluated by your health care provider and tests may need to be performed to diagnose your condition. If pain becomes acute (sharp and very intense), go to your emergency room for evaluation and treatment. It can be serious and possibly life-threatening in some cases.
PROTECTIVE STOMACH TEAS
You can generally depend on chamomile tea to work miracles when you suffer from abdominal pain. Use 1 teaspoon of Chamomile Flowers per cup. Drink 2 to 3 cups daily. Caution: If you have allergies to ragweed, you should use caution consuming chamomile tea. It may cause an allergic reaction in some sensitive individuals.
Prepare strong chamomile tea using 1 heaping tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers or 2 tea bags per cup of hot water. To cleanse the abdominal organs, drink the tea in the morning before breakfast and then lie for 5 minutes each on the left side, the abdomen, the right side and the back.
A tasty tea can be made by combining about these ingredients:
1 Ounce Fennel Seeds
1 Ounce Peppermint Leaves
1 Ounce Lemon-Balm Leaves
1 Ounce Bitter Orange Peel
Mix well in a blender to make a homogenous blend of herbs. Use 1 teaspoon of blend per cup of hot water. Drink 2-3 cups daily. The mixture is also helpful and very suitable for children.
FENNEL ESSENTIAL OIL
A gentle massage on the abdomen with fennel oil is especially helpful for children. Mix 4-5 drops of the calming Fennel Oil with 1 teaspoon of massage oil, such as Jojoba Oil. While applying light pressure, massage the abdomen in a circular motion. Move your hands in a clockwise direction with little pressure while speaking softly to the child. Mint Oil may be substituted for Fennel Oil.
ACUPRESSURE
The Abdomen-36 also called Stomach-36 (ST:36) acupressure point may be stimulated to relieve abdominal pain. This point is called Zusanli (The Leg Three miles; Longevity Point). To find the point, place your palms on both kneecaps. Use your ring fingers to press the bony protrusions to the side of the head of the tibia (shin bone) about 3 body-inches below the lower edge of the knee cap. Forcefully massage the area just below it on both legs. This point increases energy. Chinese foot soldiers used to halt every three miles and massage ST-36 for renewed energy. It restores and builds energy in the stomach and spleen. It strengthens the stomach and improves digestion. It is indicated for all digestive disturbances including gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea and constipation. It alleviates gastric discomfort, pain, distension, coldness and numbness in the legs. It is used for knee & leg pain and tension.
Extra Tip - Repeated abdominal pain can also be related to a slight misalignment of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. Correcting the posture with physical therapy or a back brace can provide lasting help. Consider a visit to your chiropractor to check for subluxation of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.
SYMBIOTIC CONTROL
Countless helpful intestinal bacteria assist our digestive tracts. However, poor nutrition and antibiotics can give pathogenic bacteria the upper hand, resulting in dysbiosis, a state in which harmful and useful bacteria are out of balance. Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and flatulence can result. Natural bacteria preparations, medicinal plants and special food can be used to restore the healthy interplay of various bacterial strains.
HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
Nux Vomica - 30C: This is helpful for relieving upset stomach, after overly rich meals or excessive alcohol and nicotine consumption. Take 3 pellets or drops 1-3 times daily.
Arsenicum Album - 6X: Try this for nausea with vomiting and diarrhea that occur after eating spoiled food. Sufferers are generally restless and very anxious. Try 5 drops or pellets every hour until there are signs of improvement.
Bryonia - 6X: This is effective for severe, sharp pains as well as for severe thirst with immediate vomiting. Movement generally makes the problem worse, but warmth is helpful. Take 5 drops or globules every hour.
ACID-BINDING DRUGS - TAKE CARE!
Acid-binding drugs purchased from a pharmacy can initially provide quick relief for heartburn. However, prolonged use of them can cause the peptic glands to keep producing more acid until they finally shut down, which causes problems.
FLAX SEED UPSET STOMACH RELIEF
The following approach is much gentler on your body. Briefly boil linseed in a little water. Add the puffed linseed, also known as flaxseed, to chamomile and fennel tea, and drink it for quick relief. Dill is also used to help soothe an upset stomach.
For an infusion, use 2 teaspoons of the bruised seeds per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes and strain. Drink up to 3 cups a day.
Flax Seed, Whole, Certified Organic, 1 lb. Bulk
Flax seeds are thought to have originated in the ancient Middle East during biblical times. They are an important source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including Omega-3, plus Magnesium, Zinc and dietary fiber. Flax oil from flax seed is the richest known source of linolenic acid. Flax seed contains protein, mucilage, phytosterols and lignans, which are naturally included at 100 times the level of the next best source, wheat bran.
Golden Flax Seeds, Whole Bulk, NOW Foods, 16 oz.
Flax seeds are thought to have originated in the ancient Middle East during biblical times. They are an important source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including Omega-3, plus Magnesium, Zinc and dietary fiber. Flax oil from flax seed is the richest known source of linolenic acid. Flax seed contains protein, mucilage, phytosterols and lignans, which are naturally included at 100 times the level of the next best source, wheat bran.
ABDOMINAL PAIN SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Information, supplements and products for pain related to the abdominal area.
Arnica Montana Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Arnica Montana is used primarily to relieve the aftereffects of falls, blows, sports injuries and overexertion.Astragalus Root, Nature's Way, 470 mg, 180 VCaps
Astragalus root from Nature's Way is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body's functions. Astragalus root is commonly included in Chinese cuisine.Cinnamon Tincture, 100% Organic, 1 fl. oz.
Cinnamon bark is warming to the body, an analgesic, carminative, antiseptic, and antibacterial.DGL (De-Glycyrrhizinated Licorice) Extract, NOW Foods, 400 mg, 100 Lozenges
De-Glycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) Extract from NOW is a tasty chewable lozenge that delivers 400 mg of Licorice per lozenge. Licorice has a long history of use and is one of the most widely known medicinal herbs today. It has been extensively researched for its ability to support healthy digestive function. De-Glycyrrhizinated Licorice is a milder form of Licorice necessary for a chewable lozenge.Digestion Supplement With Enzymes, Nature's Way, 530 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Digestion Supplement has concentrated enzymes help in efficient breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, while the herbal bitters support gastric activity and soothe digestion.Get Better Bear Colic Improvita, 2 fl. oz.
Get Better Bear Colic is a homeopathic medicine for infants and toddlers that relieves minor abdominal pain associated with colic and gas in young children.Ginger Honey Crystals, 10 Packets Per Box
Ginger Honey Crystals can help to relieve motion sickness, aids digestion and temporary nausea.Ginger Tea, Organic Digestive Aid, Yogi Tea, 16 Tea Bags
Yogi Ginger tea is organic and has something to offer to anyone who wants to get or stay healthy.GI Support, "Dr Recommended", NOW Foods, 90 Caps
The nutrients in this product promote the healthy functioning of intestinal cells involved in digestion, assimilation and elimination.Lemon Ginger Tea, Yogi Tea, 16 Tea Bags
Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger tea is a special healing formula designed to aid digestion, ease upset stomach and provide a caffeine-free pick-me-up.Licorice Root, Nature's way, 450 mg, 100 Caps
Licorice Root, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a member of the legume family and its major constituent, glycyrrhizin, is 50 times sweeter than sucrose.Natural Fiber Supplement, Truman's, 12 oz.
Truman's Natural Fiber Supplement formula helps to give bulk to the stool and to check diarrhea; thus, creating balance in the bowel movements.Pepogest Peppermint Oil, Enteric Coated, Nature's Way, 0.2 ml, 60 Softgels
Pepogest peppermint oil is a targeted release peppermint oil supplement that provides natural gastrointestinal comfort. Pepogest peppermint oil is a targeted release peppermint oil supplement that provides natural gastrointestinal comfort.Peppermint Gels With Ginger & Fennel Oils, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 90 Softgels
This nutrient rich member of the mint family contains menthol - a potent compound that has been used for centuries to help encourage optimal health and wellness. Most notably, it has the ability to promote healthy digestion and may also be able to normalize enzymatic activity.Peppermint Stomach Soother Tea, Yogi Tea, Caffeine Free, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags
Organic Peppermint tea from Yogi Tea is the perfect way to lift your spirits and quiet your stomach; with a fresh flavor and aroma you'll want to enjoy everyday.Primadophilus Optima, 35 Billion CFU, Nature's Way, 60 VCaps
Fortify and Replenish Microflora with Nature's Way Primadophilus Optima which is the most potent (35 billion CFUs) and diverse (14 strains) delivery of probiotics for intestinal microflora.Rooibos Tea, Caffeine Free Herb Tea, 25 Tea Bags
Rooibos is a red tea indigenous to South Africa, Wisdom Herbs Organic Rooibos Tea is caffeine free and tastes great.Simply Digestion 2000 Plus, With Digestive Enzymes, Dairy Free, Kosher & Vegetarian, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.
Simply Digestion 2000 Plus with Digestive Enzymes improves Digestion and Gut Health.Stomach Ease Tea, Heartburn Relief, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags
Stomach Ease is formulated to relieve occasional heartburn and indigestion as it soothes the digestive tract.Stomach Peace TCM Formula (Ganweishu), 100% Natural, 400 mg, 60 Caps
In China this product is extensively used for gastritis, peptic ulcer, abdominal pain, hepatitis, cholecystitis, costal neuralgia, kidney stone, cystitis, epilepsy, neurasthenia, anti-shock, anti-arrhythmia, mastitis, otitis media, costal chondritis, obstruction of Fallopian tube, chronic annexitis, hyperthyroidism and impotence.The Rite-Type Diet Plan For Type A, Placemat
Take the stress off your digestive system by using this guide while shopping, for blood type A.Thyme Tincture, 100% Organic, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.
Thyme is used to clear respiratory congestion, whooping cough, laryngitis, catarrh, and sore throat. This herb also can be used to treat stomach cramps, diarrhea, heartburn, chronic gastritis, flatulence, colic, and diminished appetite.
Herbal Remedies: Abdominal Pain Information
Herbal Remedies: Abdominal Pain Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Appendicitis Information
Herbal Remedies: Bladder / Cystitis Pain Information
Herbal Remedies: Colic Information
Herbal Remedies: Colitis Pain Information
Herbal Remedies: Diarrhea (Adult - Age 12 & Older) Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Diverticulitis Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Dyspepsia / Gastritis Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Endometriosis Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Fibromyalgia Syndrome Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Flu / Influenza Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Gastritis / Dyspepsia Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Hydrosalpinx Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Malnutrition / Malabsorption Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Motion Sickness Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Nausea Information, Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Rhabdomyolysis Information, Supplements & Products
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
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The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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