Abdominal pain is a common symptom of Sickle cell disease. However, not all abdominal pain in Sickle cell disease is due to vaso-occlusive crisis. Possible causes include constipation, acute abdominal sickling, abdominal painful crisis, gastroenteritis, or urinary tract infection. The attack of acute abdominal pain with fever, muscle spasm and leucocytosis are often severe and may be associated with signs and symptoms strongly suggesting various acute abdominal diseases.
Attacks of acute abdominal pain with fever, muscle spasm and leukocytosis occur not infrequently with sickle cell anaemia. The attacks are often severe and may be associated with signs and symptoms strongly suggesting various acute abdominal diseases. In fact, the picture may so closely simulate such a condition as to be almost indistinguishable, even if the patient is known to have sickle cell anaemia. These painful crises are where one needs to take painkillers.
However, I have noticed that after a week or more of taking strong pain tablets, I end up with constipation and my stomach is bloated. At this point, usually, I do not want to use any more pain killers to deal with these two issues and this is the time I resort to herbal supplements.
Ginger: Since ancient times, people have turned to ginger as a cure for everything from stomach pain to nausea. Research has shown that ginger can be a very effective, helpful and natural remedy for some stomach upset. Ginger is believed to speed up the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract, while also protecting the gut. It may also ease bloating, cramping and gas. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory, and it is available in many forms. Ginger chews and supplements are easy to take, while other people prefer their ginger in beverage form. You could also buy an all-natural ginger ale, or you could chop up some fresh ginger root or ground ginger and add hot water.
Chamomile tea: Another herbal remedy is drinking chamomile tea. Chamomile is a soothing herb that has been used for hundreds of years to calm stomach aches. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can promote muscle relaxation, which can be helpful for stomach pain caused by tension, cramping, or other digestive discomfort. A cup of chamomile tea can help ease the pain of an upset stomach by acting as an anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory properties in chamomile tea help the stomach muscles relax, which can reduce the pain of cramping and spasms. Chamomile tea can be consumed throughout the day as necessary.
Peppermint tea: Another herbal supplement to take is peppermint, for upset stomach, constipation or bloating. Peppermint has been used over the years for its health benefits. Peppermint may relieve digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating and indigestion because peppermint acts as a muscle relaxant. It may also relieve stomach cramps. Peppermint has always been a frequent fix for stomach pain and nausea. The menthol found in peppermint may also help to relieve pain as well as decrease nausea. It can be consumed as tea, gum or candy. Inhaling peppermint essential oil can also have stomach soothing effects. Peppermint is naturally sweet and caffeine-free. The menthol in peppermint leaves is a natural analgesic or pain reliever. You could brew a cup of peppermint tea, sniff peppermint extract on a handkerchief, suck on mint candy or chew on the leaves themselves.
Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is another in-house treatment that one can use. This has been known to be an effective digestive aid. It can also help calm stomach discomfort associated with indigestion, reflux, blue teen or constipation. Studies have been done to analyse how apple cider vinegar works. The answer is that the acidic nature of apple cider vinegar is known to support better stomach PH. If you can take it, try taking this acidic liquid with a tablespoon to neutralise an upset stomach. Or if it is too strong, you can dilute apple cider vinegar by mixing a tablespoon with a cup of water. If the taste is too strong, add a teaspoon of honey. The acid in apple cider vinegar may help decrease starch digestion, allowing the starch to get to the intestines and keep the bacteria in the gut healthy. Some people take a spoonful each day as a preventative measure.
Water: Another natural remedy dealing with issues of being bloated or constipated is to be hydrated. Hydration is an important part of feeling well. Whatever the cause of a stomach ache, drinking clear fluids is important for preventing dehydration. It may also help to relieve an upset stomach. You can try sipping sparkling water or having lemon/lime drink to help soothe the stomach. Try to drink fluids when you have a stomach ache.
The last option that I would like to discuss is not a herbal supplement but using a heating pad or a hot water bottle. These help when one has a stomach ache. Try having one pressed against your stomach until the symptoms pass. The warmth on your stomach will distract from the pain and the discomfort. The heat can help to relax the muscles in the stomach. Remember not to make the heating pad or hot water bottle too hot so as not to damage your skin.
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