6 Signs Your Upset Stomach Isn't Normal
6 Signs Your Upset Stomach Isn't Normal
Our guts are touchy. Everything from stress to a bad bite of seafood can get them all riled up.
Fortunately, in most cases, a brief bout of tummy turbulence—even one that sends you to the restroom more often than you'd like—shouldn't concern you much.
"If it lasts for a day or two, it's usually nothing to worry about," says Eric Esrailian, MD, co-chief of the Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA's Geffen School of Medicine.
Especially if you're stressed, have been traveling, or just started new medications—all of which could lead to an irritable belly or bowels—don't freak out. "It doesn't mean you should ignore your stomach, but it's probably not too concerning," Esrailian says. (Looking to take back control of your health? Prevention has smart answers—get a FREE book when you subscribe today.)
On the other hand, there are plenty of instances when an upset stomach warrants a trip to your doctor, or even to the ER (like these 10 symptoms you shouldn't ignore), he says.
Here are some other times when a trip to a health care professional is in your best interest.
Our guts can be touchy, but if you're experiencing any of these issues, you should see a doctor.
