Ulcerative colitis is characterized by painful ulcers and inflammation in your large intestine. While it can be managed with medication or surgery, you can also reduce your risk of flare-ups with these tips.
An occasional upset stomach is normal, but if you’re always struggling with unwanted gastrointestinal symptoms, you might be dealing with more than just a stomach ache. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that causes abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
IBS can affect the quality of your life, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Eric Ibegbu, MD, and our team at Atlantic Medical Group suggest that you come see us if you suffer from chronic GI symptoms. Not only can we diagnose IBS, but we can help you get the relief you deserve.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about IBS and stomach aches.
At Atlanta Medical Group, we know you want relief. There are many medications helpful for treating IBS. Those include antidiarrheals, antispasmodics, and even antidepressants. But there are also lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your stomach aches.
When you have IBS, certain triggers can cause a flare-up. Triggers can include:
It may be helpful to log your symptoms in a diary to help pinpoint your triggers. Once you know your triggers, it’s easier to avoid or manage them.
Because stress can take a toll on your mental and physical health, include plenty of stress management techniques in your day. These can include:
You can also spend time on your favorite hobbies, like reading or drawing.
Whether you have IBS or not, it’s important to take care of your gut health. Drink plenty of water each day, aiming for at least eight 8-ounce glasses. In addition, follow a well-balanced diet that consists of:
Alcohol, sugar-rich foods, and dairy can exacerbate stomach aches, so avoid these if possible. Depending on your needs, we may suggest a fiber supplement.
If you avoid your triggers and eat a well-balanced diet but still suffer from stomach aches, we can help. At Atlanta Medical Group, Dr. Ibegbu is here to guide you with your next steps. We are located in Kinston and Jacksonville, North Carolina.
To learn more about IBS and your treatment options, call the location of your choice today. We also accept remote appointments via TeleHealth.
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