Stomach pain is a common gastrointestinal issue. It’s so common you may be tempted to ignore it. However, stomach pain can be a sign of a more serious condition. At Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester in Rochester, NY, Dr. Manish Madan, Dr. Andrej Strapko, and Dr. Anthony Baratta provide comprehensive GI services, including diagnosing and treating stomach pain.
What You Need To Know About Stomach Pain
Stomach pain can vary from mild to severe. If you are experiencing mild stomach pain, it could be due to:
- Influenza
- An infection
- Chronic constipation
- Lactose intolerance
- Food allergies
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
To manage mild stomach pain at home, try the following:
- Eat a bland diet of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT)
- Consume smaller portions of food slowly
- Take a small amount of ginger or peppermint
- Drink licorice or chamomile tea
- Use over-the-counter antacids
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products
- Limit alcohol and NSAID medications
If your stomach pain is moderate to severe and persistent, it could indicate conditions such as:
- An ulcer
- Acute gastritis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Crohn’s Disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Stomach cancer
When To See a Gastroenterologist
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A fever over 101 degrees
- Blood in your stools
- Vomiting blood
- Difficulty breathing
- Yellowing of your skin or eyes
- Abdominal swelling
- Severe or uncontrollable pain
At Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester, your gastroenterologist will perform a thorough physical examination, which may include blood and stool tests. Additional diagnostic procedures may include:
- Upper Endoscopy: To examine your upper intestine and stomach
- Colonoscopy: To examine your colon
Effective Treatments for Stomach Pain
Depending on the cause of your stomach pain, your gastroenterologist may recommend:
- Prescription-strength antacids
- Antibiotics to treat infections
- Medications to manage pain
- Dietary and lifestyle adjustments
Don't Ignore the Signs—Contact Us Today
For expert diagnosis and treatment of stomach pain in Rochester, NY, contact Gastroenterology Associates of Rochester. Call our office at (585) 720-1550 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Madan, Dr. Strapko, or Dr. Baratta. Don’t wait—take control of your digestive health today.