Stomach churning is characterized by excessive contractions in the stomach – hyperperistalsis along with nausea and queasiness. It is often used to describe various gastrointestinal and general abdominal symptoms. Hence, ‘a churning sensation in the stomach’ may not be a stomach symptom at all; but could indicate a disorder in some part of the GI tract.
Peristalsis is the normal, involuntary bowel movement which moves food and wastes through the different segments of the GI tract. Peristalsis starts in the esophagus and continues up to the rectum. The strength, frequency and coordination of the contractions vary depending upon a host of factors. When these contractions are excessive, then it is referred to as hyperperistalsis. Hyperperistalsis makes you feel a churning sensation in the tummy.
What Causes Churning Sensation In Stomach?
Etiological factors for churning sensation in the stomach include:
Acute Causes
An acute condition commences suddenly and stays for a short interval of time, until it resolves on its own or with appropriate treatment.
- Indigestion – linked to over-eating, offensive stimuli like disagreeable odors, tastes or images, alcohol and excessive caffeine intake, anxiety.
- Infections of the stomach.
- Certain over the counter and prescription drugs, mostly NSAIDs and antibiotics.
- Oral poisoning
- Motion sickness
- Gall stone attack
- Over use of laxatives
- Computer vision syndrome.
- Prolonged hunger or fasting.
- Strenuous exercise, particularly abdominal workouts.
- Pregnancy, more so, during the first trimester.
Chronic Causes
Chronic conditions last for 3 months or more. It comes on gradually and insidiously.
- Irritable bowel syndrome – where the bowel is overactive.
- Inflammatory bowel disease.
- Lactose intolerance – symptoms come on after you consume milk and its products.
- Malabsorption syndrome.
- Celiac disease – an autoimmune reaction to gluten (wheat protein).
- Pancreas and / or gallbladder disorders.
- Adhesions in the abdomen which develop after abdominal surgery.
- Premenstrual syndrome – occurring every month and where nausea/vomiting are prominent symptoms.
- Gastrointestinal obstruction.
How To Treat Churning Sensation In Stomach?
In case you have churning sensation for a couple of days and can identify and want to treat it promptly; you need to visit a doctor. Not everyone seeks medical aid for acute stomach churning. Usually, home remedies and over-the-counter medicines offer relief. There is no specific remedy for stomach churning, however, these remedies proffer momentary relief until medical attention can be sought.
OTC analgesics and anti-emetics are useful. Drink plenty of ice water, so that the tummy settles. Uneasiness related to indigestion, motion sickness or excessive alcohol consumption can be managed at home successfully. Coconut water, mint tea, and ginger tea are excellent home remedies. They help allay queasiness, nausea and tummy discomfort effectively.
On the other hand, if you suffer from frequent bouts of stomach churning, or if the complaint has been there for more than a month, it is imperative to confer with a health care provider. Discuss the possible causes for your problem; also, carry out a few tests and investigations to understand the precise cause in your case.
Irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and malabsorption syndromes should not be neglected. They need to be treated correctly. Talk to your doctor and start the treat regimen as well as dietary modifications promptly.