Stomach symptoms can look very different from one person to another. One person gets heartburn, another gets bloating, and a third gets diarrhoea or constipation when stressed. The right response depends on the main symptom.
Start with the main problem#
If the problem is diarrhoea or vomiting, fluids come first. If it is constipation, the first questions are fibre, fluids, movement and regular bowel habits. If it is heartburn, the goal is to reduce reflux and avoid large late meals.
Heartburn and reflux#
Heartburn usually feels like burning behind the breastbone. It often improves with smaller meals, less late eating and a calmer pace after food. If symptoms keep returning, a more specific plan may be needed.
Bloating and gas#
Bloating often comes from eating quickly, carbonated drinks, a sudden increase in fibre or certain foods that do not suit you well. A food diary can help if the pattern repeats.
Diarrhoea and stomach bug#
When the gut is irritated and stools are loose, the most important thing is to replace fluids. Eat lightly if you feel like eating. If symptoms keep going or dehydration appears, review is needed.
Constipation#
Constipation often improves when fibre is increased gradually, fluids are steady and the body has time to settle into a routine. Pushing too hard usually makes things worse.
When to seek care#
Seek care if the abdominal pain is severe, if there is blood in the stool, black stool, high fever, repeated vomiting, dehydration or a clear drop in general condition. Seek care also if the symptoms become persistent or obviously different from your usual pattern.
Further reading and sources#
Further reading: