Gastrointestinal issues: simple fixes and when to seek help

Stomach trouble can hit fast and mess up your plans. Whether it’s heartburn after dinner, sudden diarrhea on the road, or weeks of sluggish digestion, you want clear steps that actually work. Here’s a practical, no-nonsense guide to common GI problems and what to do next.

Quick fixes you can try today

Indigestion and heartburn: Eat smaller meals, avoid fried or spicy food, skip late-night snacks, and sit upright for at least 2 hours after eating. Try an antacid for fast relief. If symptoms occur more than twice a week, a short course of an H2 blocker or PPI may help, but talk to your doctor before long-term use.

Diarrhea: Hydration is the priority. Sip oral rehydration solution or a mix of water, salt, and sugar. Eat bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast if you can tolerate food. For adults, loperamide can reduce symptoms for non-bloody, non-fever diarrhea. If you recently took antibiotics, watch for severe or bloody diarrhea and see a clinician—Clostridioides difficile infection needs medical care.

Constipation: Add fiber slowly (whole grains, fruits, vegetables), drink more water, and move your body daily. If diet and exercise don’t help, an osmotic laxative like polyethylene glycol works well for many people. Use stimulant laxatives only short term and check with your pharmacist or doctor if you need them regularly.

Nausea and vomiting: Try clear fluids in small sips, bland crackers, and ginger or peppermint. If vomiting prevents you from keeping fluids down, or if you’re lightheaded, see a doctor.

When medications and tests matter

Many drugs cause GI side effects. Some antidepressants, antibiotics, and blood-pressure meds can upset your stomach, cause constipation, or trigger diarrhea. If symptoms start after a new prescription, ask your prescriber about alternatives or dose changes. Never stop a prescribed medicine without talking to your clinician.

Tests like blood work, stool studies, or abdominal imaging may be needed if symptoms are severe, long-lasting, or accompanied by weight loss, fever, blood in stool, or yellowing of the skin. Your provider can help decide which tests are right.

Preventive tips: Wash hands, keep food at safe temperatures, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, and consider a probiotic after a course of antibiotics if your doctor agrees. Simple diet changes often prevent recurring problems more than odd supplements or quick fixes.

Red flags to act on now: severe belly pain, fever above 101 F, persistent vomiting, fainting, bloody or black stools, or jaundice. Those need urgent care.

If you want deeper reads, our site has guides on antibiotics, medication side effects, and safe ways to manage prescriptions. Use those resources to understand risks and how to talk with your healthcare team.

Gut issues are common and usually manageable. With practical self-care and the right timing for medical help, most people get back to normal quickly.