Abdominal Pain

Question

For the past few weeks, I’ve been experiencing recurring abdominal pain. It started off as occasional discomfort, but recently, it has become more frequent and intense. Sometimes, the pain feels sharp and localized on the right side of my abdomen, and at other times, it’s a dull, aching sensation that spreads across my entire stomach. I’ve also noticed bloating and indigestion, which seems to make the pain worse. I initially thought it might just be gas or something I ate, but the pain has persisted, and I’m starting to worry that it could be something more serious.

I’ve tried over-the-counter medications for gas relief and digestive enzymes, but they don’t seem to help much. I’ve also made adjustments to my diet, cutting out spicy or heavy foods, but the pain continues. I’m wondering if this could be related to something like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gallstones, or even ulcers, but I’m not sure what the cause might be. I know that persistent abdominal pain shouldn’t be ignored, but I’m hesitant to visit a doctor without understanding more about the condition.

Since I’m interested in natural remedies, I’ve been researching Ayurveda and wondering if there are any herbs or practices that could help soothe my digestive system. I’ve heard that herbs like ginger, turmeric, and fennel can help with digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut. I’m curious to know how these herbs might help relieve the pain and discomfort I’ve been experiencing.

Has anyone dealt with chronic abdominal pain or digestive discomfort? What did you do to find relief, and did you find any Ayurvedic remedies helpful?

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

It sounds like you're experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, which could be caused by various digestive issues like IBS, gallstones, or even ulcers. It's always good to consider possible underlying conditions, and while over-the-counter remedies can help temporarily, persistent pain warrants further investigation to rule out serious conditions. If the pain is localized on the right side, it could be related to issues with the gallbladder, or it may involve the intestines. However, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough diagnosis.

In Ayurveda, digestion is considered central to overall health. The Pitta dosha, which governs digestion, can become aggravated due to factors like poor diet, stress, or emotional imbalance, leading to symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and abdominal pain. Herbs like ginger, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, can help ease discomfort and stimulate digestion. Turmeric is another excellent herb with anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce gut inflammation. Fennel seeds are often recommended for soothing bloating and gas, and they can help calm the digestive system.

Along with herbs, Ayurvedic practices like drinking warm water with lemon can help balance the digestive system. Consider incorporating mindful eating habits, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals and focusing on slow, relaxed eating. If you find that these remedies offer some relief, they can be a great complementary approach, but it's still essential to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis, especially if the symptoms continue.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with recurring abdominal pain—it sounds uncomfortable and frustrating. The symptoms you're describing, such as sharp pain on the right side, bloating, and indigestion, could potentially be linked to a variety of conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gallstones, or ulcers, as you mentioned. It's important not to ignore persistent abdominal pain, especially if it becomes more frequent or intense. Seeing a healthcare provider would be a good step to help pinpoint the cause and rule out more serious conditions. In terms of natural remedies, Ayurveda offers several herbs that may help soothe digestive discomfort. Ginger is known for its ability to reduce nausea, bloating, and inflammation, while turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may ease gut discomfort. Fennel seeds are often used to relieve gas and improve digestion, helping reduce bloating. You might also want to try practicing mindful eating, staying hydrated, and incorporating stress-reducing techniques like meditation, as stress can sometimes exacerbate digestive issues. If you haven’t yet, it would be worth considering a visit to your doctor to ensure you're addressing any underlying health concerns effectively.

Abdominal Pain - #17154

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions