Many of us have experienced stomach pain at night, especially close to bedtime. It can result in sleep disturbances. There is a common belief that milk and warm water can alleviate stomach pain. Is it true?

 

Is the best cure a soothing glass of milk when having stomach pain?

 

Milk will not settle an upset stomach. Although milk temporarily coats the lining of the stomach, buffering the acid in your stomach and making you feel a bit better, the relief will not last long as milk can stimulate the secretion of acid and can make you feel sick again. Besides, milk is no longer recommended for people with diary sensitivity. Symptoms can range from mild to severe including nausea and diarrhoea.

 

Does warm water alleviate stomach pain?

 

Drinking warm water improves bowel movements and alleviates stomach pain. There is a common belief that water will reduce the acidity of the stomach acid, while it is not true. Research shows that stomach acid has a pH around 2 and with its pH balance two spots higher after drinking water. Due to the absorption of water occurs predominantly in the small intestine, the acidic environment of the stomach will not be greatly changed.

 

Can I take over-the-counter medications for stomach pain?

 

Patients taking over-the-counter medications without prescription may have an increased pH which is higher than the normal range. The environment is, therefore, not sufficient to prevent microbial overgrowth in these individuals. In certain medications, the amount of magnesium can trigger a bowel movement and help to make stools easier to pass, while aluminium may cause constipation. So not every OTC medicine will work best for you.

 

 

Diagnosis and treatment

 

The majority of conditions which cause stomach ache will pass on their own without treatment. But if a recurring stomach ache or a severe situation, the doctor may require a gastroscopy for further diagnosis. The treatments for stomach pain depend on the diagnosis. For H. pylori-infected patients, the doctor will prescribe triple therapy which consists of an acid suppressor and two to three antibiotics.

 

Prevention

 

Citizens are recommended to have a healthy diet and avoid raw or not cooked foods. Drinking a lot of caffeine including tea and coffee can upset your stomach. Citizens can try to exercise regularly, give up smoking, and communicate with the doctor if noticing any abnormal discomfort.

 

*The above information is for reference only, please consult your doctor for detail.