There are a variety of choices for treating GI discomfort on a daily and as-needed basis, depending on the sort of pain you're having. Just because you've been diagnosed with a chronic GI ailment or are experiencing reversible symptoms as a result of your GI problem doesn't mean you have to live in constant discomfort. Instead, pay attention to your body and seek the counsel and treatment of an experienced gastroenterologist you require to live a happier and pain-free life in harmony with your gastrointestinal tract. When it comes to managing GI pain, there are a lot of over-the-counter choices. Here's a rundown of the best options available at your local pharmacy.

Gas pain

To relieve gas pain at its cause, take an OTC drug containing simethicone, such as Gas-X or Mylanta. This is an anti-foaming substance that aids in the reduction of bloating and overall discomfort caused by stomach and GI tract gas problems. Simethicone prevents gas development by lowering the surface tension of gas bubbles that have developed in your stomach or GI tract.

Heartburn

Heartburn is best treated with over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers like Zantac and Pepcid AC, which work to reduce stomach acidity by combining magnesium, calcium, and aluminum salts. All of these things work together to lessen the amount of stomach acids in your body.

Constipation

If you have constipation, stool softeners or laxatives are the best over-the-counter choices. Stool softeners, such as Colace or Dulcolax, operate by increasing the amount of moisture in your stools with an active ingredient called Docusate, making bowel movements easier and less unpleasant. Most stool softeners start functioning right once, and the urge to go to the bathroom emerges within 12 to 72 hours. Stool softeners are the first line of defense for patients who need to maintain their bowels soft and avoid constipation following events such as delivery, surgery, or hemorrhoids or anal fissure.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including an adverse reaction to food, food allergies or poisoning, medicine, a virus, or GI-related chronic disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Diarrhea is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal problems, impacting 3 million individuals annually. The majority of instances are minor and do not require treatment. Drinking enough of water and getting plenty of rest will help you recover faster from a case of diarrhea. If your condition is more severe, OTC drugs such as Imodium or Pepto Bismol can help. These anti-diarrheal drugs work by slowing the passage of food through your intestines, allowing more fluid to absorb directly into your stomach rather than passing via your bowels.

At-home remedies

There are a variety of at-home therapies that can help with GI pain in general.

• Applying a heating pad to the hurting area is one of them.

• Getting plenty of water in your system.

• To relieve gas pains, drink peppermint or chamomile tea.

• Avoiding meals that cause you discomfort or make your GI issues worse.

• Rather than three large meals, eat multiple little meals throughout the day.

• Exercising on a daily basis.

Although OTC drugs and at-home cures can help with short-term GI difficulties, if you have any persistent diseases or are in a lot of discomfort, it's time to contact a gastroenterologist in Digestive Disease Specialist.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.