There are different types of stomach ache that arise due to different factors. Some of the causes include acidity of the stomach, gas, problems with the appendix, and even stomach cancer. If you suffer from persistent stomach ache, accompanied by vomiting and fever then you should go and see a doctor as soon as possible. However, if the pain is just occasional, then perhaps you ought to be thinking about ways to prevent it, rather than requiring a cure. Stomach ache affects everybody at some time or another, affecting men, women and children. The prevention of stomach ache in children and adults needs to be considered separately.



Stomach ache in children

Most children have irregular bowel patterns. The consistency and size of the child's stool should always be checked. This will help to determine whether the child has a constipation problem or not. It is also important to make sure that the child does not have irregular eating habits. Overeating is a common reason for abdominal discomfort.

The child should be taught to eat slowly, chewing his food properly, and to stop when his or her stomach is full. Swallowing air, known as aerophagia, can also be a major cause of abdominal pain, and may also lead to a swelling of the abdominal area, as well as frequent belching. Limiting carbonated beverages and chewing gum may be helpful in preventing flatus or belching in your child. Many children tend to swallow air if they are frightened or anxious, so sometimes abdominal pain can be a sign that the child has been upset in some way.

Stomach ache in adults

Developing regular bowel patterns is extremely important in the prevention of stomach ache caused by constipation. Overeating is also a major cause of stomach ache and discomfort. It is important to get into the habit of eating slowly, and to stop eating once the stomach is full. It is better to eat several small meals per day, as opposed to one big one. It is also important to ensure that these meals are well-balanced and high in fiber.

Drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, and limit foods that produce gas. Foods which have a tendency to produce a lot of gas are:

- Legumes, such as peas and dried beans

- Dairy products, such as milk, cheese and ice cream

- Vegetables, such as cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes and onions

- Fruits, such as apricots, bananas and raisins

- Pastries and bread

- Fatty foods, such as fried chicken

- Carbonated drinks, such as champagne

If you suffer from periodic stomach ache, it is important to take preventative measures to ensure that this problem does not ruin your day. If you know what triggers your stomach ache, you will be able to avoid the causes, and thus prevent the problem. Sitting straight while eating will also ease the pressure on the stomach and will prevent an ache from developing afterwards.

Some people have a very strong stomach, which means that they can eat just about anything they like, and not get stomach ache, while some people suffer from it even if they have only eaten something a little more spicy than usual.

People suffering from frequent stomach pain would be well-advised to track what they eat and drink for a full three weeks. By doing this, they may be able to identify the things that are giving them the stomach ache.

Copyright (c) 2008 Robert Sifer