{"id":34383,"date":"2024-07-15T07:00:37","date_gmt":"2024-07-15T07:00:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/updates-www.mccdn.io\/vitals\/?p=34383"},"modified":"2024-11-26T00:30:53","modified_gmt":"2024-11-26T00:30:53","slug":"should-i-see-a-doctor-stomach-problems","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/updates-www.mccdn.io\/vitals\/should-i-see-a-doctor-stomach-problems\/","title":{"rendered":"Should I see a doctor: Stomach problems","gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"text"}]},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether it\u2019s stomach cramping that wakes you up after an indulgent dinner, nausea hitting like waves after changing medications, or uncomfortable bowel movements that have you repeatedly rushing to the bathroom, digestive problems are some of the most relatable \u2014 and miserable \u2014 challenges in life.<\/p>\n

Stomach pain and nausea come on a spectrum, and bowel habits vary from person to person. So, how can you tell when it\u2019s simply short-term discomfort or something more serious?<\/p>\n

What\u2019s \u2018normal\u2019<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Mild to moderate\/annoying stomach discomfort is expected from time to time and can be affected by small changes to diet, exercise, medication or emotional well-being. Stress, prescription changes and migraines could also be culprits, among other causes.<\/p>\n

Nausea and vomiting are coordinated in the brainstem, meaning an upset digestive system is only one of many possible triggers. Stress, prescription changes or migraines could be your source. These occurrences are typically short-lived, and you can recover on your own with fluids, rest and avoiding triggers.<\/p>\n

Regardless of how well you follow a balanced lifestyle with adequate fiber, water and physical activity, bowel movement regularities vary by person. Anywhere from three a day to three a week \u2014 with no pain or worrisome consistency or color \u2014 are normal.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s \u2018not normal\u2019<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The biggest indicators something could be wrong are gastrointestinal (GI) problems that persist for weeks, specifically four or more, or sudden changes.<\/p>\n

About 30 percent of the world has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), where mild to moderate benign symptoms become chronic and can come and go in response to triggers. A simple blood and stool sample evaluation by your primary care provider can determine if it\u2019s IBS or something else.<\/p>\n

Things to look out for that should send you to your provider more urgently:<\/p>\n