Treating Tummy Trouble

“Upset” doesn’t begin to cover it. Your stomach’s doing flip-flops--and not because you’ve just met the person of your dreams.

Vomiting and diarrhea can make you miserable. Why are your stomach and bowels reacting so strongly? It’s probably because of some irritant, such as viral stomach flu, something you ate or certain medications. The list goes on.

Whatever the cause, vomiting and diarrhea are two ways your body can remove the problem from your system. Sometimes, though, they are signs of a more serious problem or infection, such as hepatitis or parasites. If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor.

* Severe, steady abdominal pain.

* Vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours.

* An inability to keep down just sips of liquids for more than 12 hours.

* Severe diarrhea that lasts more than two days.

* Bloody or black vomit or stools.

If you don’t have any of these symptoms, try self-care:

* Drink, drink, drink: Keep fluids in your body by sipping clear liquids such as water or flat soda at room temperature. Can’t stomach the thought of drinking something? Try ice chips or frozen juice bars. And avoid coffee, alcohol and milk products--they’ll only irritate your delicate stomach even more.

Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Children, especially, can become dehydrated quickly. Signs include extreme thirst, lightheadedness or dizziness, sunken eyes, extreme fatigue or weakness, and infrequent urination or dark yellow urine.

* Eat light. As your symptoms lessen, begin--slowly--eating light meals, such as gelatin and non-citrus juices. Next, try bland foods in small quantities. And, remember BRAT: bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. In the next few days, think small and frequent meals; think pasta and potatoes. Avoid high-fiber foods (whole grains and raw vegetables), fatty and spicy foods, and alcohol until you’re feeling better.

* Soothe your stomach, Part 1: Some over-the-counter medications can help. Look for those that include kaolin, pectin or bismuth, or ask your pharmacist for help.

* Soothe your stomach, Part 2: Avoid aspirin, medications that contain aspirin, and aspirin substitutes; they can cause upset.

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Source: StayWell Co.