What Is an Upset Stomach a Symptom Of?

Upset stomach symptoms may include: 

• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen
• Heartburn
• Burping
• Bloating
• Feeling full quickly after eating
• Nausea

An upset stomach is usually mild and can be treated at home. More serious cases of stomach upset can be diagnosed with a patient history and a physical examination of the abdomen, which may include checking for tenderness, enlarged organs, or masses, and listening to the abdomen with a stethoscope for bowel sounds. A pelvic and/or rectal examination may also be performed. 

Imaging studies used to diagnose the cause of an upset stomach may include: 

• Endoscopy
• Ultrasound
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Pregnancy should be ruled out in all females of childbearing age with an upset stomach.

Most of the time, an upset stomach can be treated at home. Treatment for an upset stomach may include: 

• Consuming clear liquids in frequent, small amounts
• Drinking plenty of fluids so urine is a pale yellow or clear color
• If vomiting occurs, start with small sips of water or sucking on ice chips and if these are well tolerated, try:
  • Sports drinks
  • Clear, non-caffeinated sodas such as ginger ale, 7-Up, or Sprite 
  • Clear soup broth or bouillon
  • Diluted juices such as apple, grape, cherry, or cranberry (avoid citrus juices)
  • Decaffeinated tea
  • Popsicles
• If fluids are well tolerated, slowly add bland solid foods such as the BRAT diet: 
  • Bananas
  • Rice (white)
  • Applesauce
  • Toast (plain or with only jelly or honey if desired)

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may help ease some symptoms associated with an upset stomach. Talk to your doctor to find out which medicine is right for you. 

• Antacids or acid reducers (Pepcid, Zantac) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Simethicone (Gas-X, Mylanta) for gas and bloating
• Loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) for diarrhea
• Stool softeners or laxatives for constipation
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) for cramping pain 

If an upset stomach is caused by a specific medical problem, such as an ulcer, treatments for the underlying condition can help relieve symptoms.