This article explains the Burning sensation in stomach, its causes, symptoms, risk factors, management & best homeopathic medicines for complete cure.
Imagine having a delicious meal and you enjoyed every bit of it, and you get stuffed, but sometime later you start having a burning feeling in the stomach and chest.
An occasional burp that leaves a bad taste and feeling uncomfortable in the belly and upper part of the stomach.
This is happening due to indigestion that use often a sign of an underlying problem, such as a gastric ulcer. Gastric esophageal reflux disease or GERD, gall bladder diseases, etc.
So, indigestion is a constellation of symptoms that are all related to your digestive system. There is burning pain, bloating, feeling full, more full than normal after a meal.
Usually, the burning sensation in the stomach is caused by a faulty lifestyle and bad food habits. These habits can make you feel bloated and even in pain in certain situations.
This article will cover homeopathic remedies for burning sensation in the stomach, the cause of nail lichen planus, symptoms, risk factors, prevention and management, and complete treatment.
Causes of Burning sensation in stomach
Now the question arises why do we experience a burning sensation in the stomach and what are the causes behind it?
The main cause of the burning sensation is indigestion after overeating. It can be for a lot of different reasons, but most likely from something you’ve eaten.
There are some causes responsible for the burning sensation in the stomach mentioned below.
1. Acid reflux
There are times when you have a little bit more hyperacidity that can give you symptoms like a burning sensation in the chest and stomach. When the acid reflux is of severe type it can cause significant damage to the digestive tract.
Acid reflux happens due to a variety of reasons. It may be you had too big of a meal or you had something super spicy food. When you have acid reflux the valve present between the esophagus and stomach doesn’t function correctly.
This common issue allows the stomach acid to move back into your esophagus, causing heartburn.
2. GERD
GERD stands for gastric esophageal reflux disorder which is much more severe. It is like a hyped-up chronic version of acid reflux.
Individuals who suffer from GERD typically will get acid reflux multiple times a day. It is one of the major causes of burning sensation in the stomach.
They can even get ulcers in their esophagus and lining of the stomach that also result to cause a burning sensation in the stomach.
3. Gastritis
Another major cause of burning sensation in the stomach is gastritis which is inflammation, irritation, or erosion in the lining of the stomach.
It is most commonly caused due to helicobacter pylori infection. This bacterium absorbs iron from food which further results in anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency.
Along with burning sensation patients also feel nausea, vomiting, belly pain, indigestion, and bloating. If not treated earlier, it can lead to cause stomach ulcers or anemia also.
4. Peptic ulcer
It is also one of the major causes of the burning sensation in the stomach. It is a roughened area or cavity which is found in the stomach or small bowel.
The stomach produces acid to break down food. The stomach and duodenum have a layer of mucus that protects them so the stomach acid doesn’t damage them.
Peptic ulcer occurs when the inside of the stomach is damaged by the acid. It attacks the tissue causing a lesion or ulcer to form the body’s usual mechanism which protects the tissue lining the stomach is not working properly.
Sometimes the ulcer can erode the stomach wall and cause it to bleed. Rarely this can cause a hole to form, this can cause severe pain and is a medical emergency.
5. Medications
Certain medications can cause gastrointestinal issues and further result to cause burning sensation and pain in the stomach.
Some medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc. repetitive intake of such drugs can weaken the lining of the stomach and can further cause gastritis.
6. Reaction to food OR Food poisoning
There are some reactions to certain food that can result in food poisoning and further cause nausea, vomiting, stomachache, and a burning sensation in the stomach.
It usually starts with feeling sick and bad stomach cramps with many episodes of vomiting and diarrhea.
The most common cause of food poisoning are bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli or viruses usually norovirus also known as the winter vomiting bug.
7. Smoking
Smoking is not only hazardous to our lungs but also has some other harmful effects on our digestive tract.
It is also one of the major causes of burning sensation seen in smokers. The burning sensation in the stomach is one of the negative side effects of smoking seen in smokers.
This also extends to the increased risk of heartburn, ulcers, and cancer.
Types of Burning sensation in Stomach
The patients experience burning sensations in the stomach in the form of different types that are mentioned below.
1. Burning sensation in stomach after eating
Many individuals face the problem of a burning sensation in the stomach after eating a full meal or having a portion of spicy food.
The spicy food triggers a burning sensation in the stomach and also starts the risk of indigestion, belching, eructation, bloating, and stomachache.
2. Burning sensation in stomach after drinking
Many different drinks and beverages can cause a burning sensation in the stomach including water.
Those who are habitual alcohol drinkers can usually suffer from a burning sensation in the stomach. It is often a result of binge drinking.
Chronic alcohol consumption can change the structure and function of the digestive system, causing stomachache after drinking alcohol.
Drinking carbonated beverages such as soda, cola, etc can increase gas in the stomach which can contribute to stomach burning.
A burning sensation in the stomach can also cause after drinking milk. A common reason behind it is lactose intolerance. It is a condition in which your body doesn’t have the right enzyme to break down lactose which results to cause negative side effects.
Symptoms of the burning sensation in stomach
The symptoms of a burning sensation in the stomach include: –
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Belching
- Heartburn
- Bloating
- A feeling of fullness and discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Recurrent upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Accumulation of gas
- Fatigue
- Feeling full sooner than normal
- Blood in stool
- Anemia
Risk factors of Burning sensation in stomach
- Those patients who are suffering from gastritis is inflammation in the stomach are at high risk of developing burning sensations in the stomach. The bacteria H. pylori is a causative agent behind gastritis. It weakens the lining of the stomach and almost damages it.
- We know some medications can cause a burning sensation in the stomach. Those patients who take NSAIDs n a daily basis can further face the problem of a burning sensation in the stomach later in their life.
- Some unhealthy habits like binge alcohol drinking, smoking, binge eating, etc. are the major risk factors for burning sensation in the stomach. These individuals have a high risk of developing burning sensations in the stomach than those who don’t e.g., non-smokers and non-alcoholics.
- It is seen in older adults that they suffer from the complaint of a burning sensation in the stomach more often. There is also a very high risk of developing gastritis because by increasing age the limning of the stomach also becomes weaker and weaker and they become prone to have H. pylori infection.
- Those individuals who have a habit of eating a heavy meal at a time or eating late at night are at higher risk of developing a burning sensation in the stomach. These individuals may later suffer from more severe problems like Gerd.
- Irregular meal patterns, and eating a meal just before bedtime may correlate with the symptoms of a burning sensation in the stomach.
- Many studies indicate that eating fatty, fried, spicy food or eating sweet and spicy food together can irritate the lining of the digestive tract and it further triggers the symptoms like a burning sensation in the stomach.
- Stress is also one of the major risk factors for burning sensation in the stomach. Stress after any trauma or injury if left untreated then it may result in some severe pathologies like Ulcerative colitis, gastritis, or carcinoma of cancer.
Diagnosis of Burning sensation in stomach
The diagnosis of a burning sensation in the stomach begins with a complete medical history regarding onset, modalities, and severity of the sensation and by performing a physical examination.
It is usually made by clinical examination that is by signs and symptoms experienced by the patients.
If you are experiencing the symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sour eructation, etc, along with a burning sensation in the stomach then, your doctor will perform some tests to confirm the diagnosis for more severe diseases of the digestive system
The doctor will ask about the medication and disease history that the patient is taking or whether the patient has hepatitis or diabetes or any autoimmune disorder or genetic disorder or not and if the patient is allergic to some medication or has a history of acid reflux, intestinal TB or not
The doctor will also ask about some associated symptoms along with the burning sensation that patient may experiencing or not. As this condition is a multi-factorial disease so it may be associated with some other disease conditions also.
The doctor will also perform an ultra-sonography of your abdomen to find any pathologies behind your complaints.
The doctor may also examine your stool and also do some blood tests, Blood cultures for any bacteria especially H. pylori infection, he will advise you to take a healthy diet, reduce some extra calories, do some exercises and avoid smoking if you are a smoker.
Prevention and management of Burning sensation in stomach
- Some self-care measures can help to reduce the sensation of burning in the stomach. The condition is reversible if treated earlier it will protect the individual from more severe diseases that may occur later in his/ her life.
- Always try to eat small meals and do not eat heavy meals at a time. There should be a gap of 4 hours between every meal so that every meal gets time for complete digestion, otherwise patient will face symptoms of indigestion later.
- Certain types of foods are very helpful to reduce the symptoms of a burning sensation in the stomach. These foods include curd and yogurt, ginger, oats, green leafy vegetables, and fruits like watermelon and papaya. So, try to include these foods more often in your diet.
- Do not go to bed with a full stomach and stroll at least 30 minutes after dinner before going to bed. Eat meals for at least 2-3 hours before lying down. This will give the food time to digest and get out of your stomach.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol drinking. Do not eat spicy food and sweets together. Eat in small portions and do not eat heavy meals.
- Some stress-relieving activities like meditation, yoga, and exercise also act as preventive measures for the development of GIT-related issues. Include these activities in your lifestyle.
- Proper counseling and assurance to the patients along with proper management can help a lot in recovery from such conditions.
Best Homeopathic Medicines for Burning sensation in stomach
Homeopathy is a holistic system of medicine that treats not only the symptoms of the disease but also the man who is suffering from the disease.
So, after a complete detailed history of present and past disease and considering the family history also, a drug is prescribed which will be based on the individualization of every patient.
In mild cases, improvement can be seen within weeks, whereas severe cases will take a longer time. Along with homeopathic medicine, the patients have to follow a healthy regimen for optimum results.
Now, let’s go through some of the homeopathic medicines that can help to relieve the burning sensation in the stomach. Some of the best homeopathic medicines for the treatment of this condition are mentioned below:-
- Kali Bichromicum
- Argentum nitricum
- Lycopodium
- Hydrastis Canadensis
- Phosphorus
- Natrum muriaticum
- Tarentula Hispania
- Podophyllum
- Bryonia alba
- Arsenicum album
1. Kali bichromicum:- for burning sensation with heaviness in the stomach
Kali bichromicum is an effective remedy for burning in the stomach and duodenum. The symptoms are worse in the summer season.
The patient has the feeling of a load as heaviness in the stomach after food, with offensive eructations. Vomiting is sour and bloody, with bitter and stingy mucous, and contains indigested food material and bile.
The patient is confused and depressed and dwells on his complaints.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c 4 globules (pills) dissolved in half a cup of water 2 times a day for 15 days.
2. Argentum nitricum: – burning sensation due to inflammation of the duodenum
It is an effective medicine when a burning sensation is mainly because of a duodenal or gastric ulcer. The patient has an irresistible desire for sugar which makes him sick. Eructation brings the acid into the esophagus which gives him a sense of burning.
The stomach is inflamed with ulceration of the mucous membrane. Flatulence, distension with severe pain due to ulcer. The patient is sad, melancholic, and confused. They are very impulsive also.
Dosage and potency: 200c, 4 globes in half cup of water thrice a day till the symptom disappear. Take 15 minutes gap between meals and medication.
3. Lycopodium: – for burning sensation with lower abdominal pain
Lycopodium is a wonderful remedy for relieving the burning sensation in the stomach. There is a burning type of pain, and the patient complains of pressure or cramp and discomfort.
There is an all-gone sensation in the stomach. Few mouthfuls fill the stomach with a sense of fullness. All gone sensation in the stomach which is not relieved by eating.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c, take 4 drops of dilution in half a cup of water twice a day, till the improvement is seen.
4. Hydrastis Canadensis: – burning sensation with weak digestion
The patient complains of constant crampy pain in the stomach and duodenum. There is the sensation of being hungry. The epigastric discomfort of duodenal ulcer radiates in a belt-like fashion across the upper abdomen.
Digestion is weak. There is colicky and crampy pain in the stomach and abdomen, distension of the abdomen with flatus. Sense of pulsation in the epigastrium, vegetables can be eaten. Atonic dyspepsia. The liver is enlarged.
Dosage and potency: 200c potency take 4 globules (pills) twice a day till the improvement occurs.
5. Phosphorus:- for burning sensation better by cold drinks.
This medicine is indicated when all gastric symptoms are worse by warmth, or better by cold even though the patient is chilly. Most of the symptoms are better by eating. The patient is hungry all the time.
There is an inflammatory condition in the stomach, and the pit of the stomach is sensitive. Burning in the stomach extending to the esophagus and small intestine.
Mentally patient is very much fearful and has lost almost all the spirits in their life.
Dosage and potency: 1m potency of dilution, take 2-3 drops in half cup of water one time a day for 3 days.
6. Natrum muriaticum; – burning pain worse by fasting
Natrum is a polychrest medicine and is very effective in treating all gastric issues. The patient loses weight yet he is living well.
The symptoms of natrum mur. usually occur when the stomach is empty, late in the morning, in the afternoon, and during the middle of the night. Patients often realize that they must eat frequently.
Mental symptoms are manifested due to ill effects of grief, fright, anger, etc, the patient is very much depressed, and consolation aggravates the symptoms.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c potency, take 2-3 drops of dilution in half cup of water and take twice a day till the improvement.
7. Tarentula:- for burning sensation in the whole GIT
There is a burning sensation in the whole of the gastrointestinal tract. The specialty of this drug is its chronicity and periodicity. In this medicine duodenal deformity is well observed.
Nausea and vomiting, are associated with burning in the stomach and abdomen.
The patient manifests a sudden alteration of mood. Destructive impulses. The patient tends to keep himself busy or walk.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c, 4 globules (pills) twice a day till the improvement is seen.
8. Podophyllum: – burning sensation due to indigestion
This medicine is indicated when there is a sudden contraction of the stomach along with a burning sensation. The contents of the stomach rush immediately into the oral cavity and due to this sudden spasm patient scream out.
Digestion and assimilation slow down. Whatever food is taken turns sour and either it is vomited or thrown out in the form of diarrhea.
Dosage and potency: – 200c potency, take 4 globules thrice a day up to improvement.
9. Bryonia alba: – for stitching and burning pain in the pit of the stomach
The gastric symptoms are worse in warm things and better in cold things. There is abnormal hunger, loss of taste, and thirst for a large quantity of water at long intervals.
There are inflammatory conditions of the stomach and abdomen with severe pain after eating. Stitching and burning pain in the pit of the stomach, and breathing increase the pain.
Dryness of the mouth, lips parched, dry and cracked, with excessive thirst are well-marked symptoms.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c take 3-4 drops of dilution in half a cup of water twice a day.
10. Arsenicum album: – burning in the stomach from spoiled foods and drinks.
Gastric troubles after taking cold, spoiled food, or over-ripened fruits. There is intense burning in the stomach, and anxiety in the stomach.
The stomach is extremely irritable and seems raw gastralgia from irritation by food and drinks. Burning pain like coals of fire relived by warm food and drinks. Abdomen swollen, tender, and painful.
Dosage and potency: 1M potency and higher potencies are effective, take four globules under the tongue, once a day for two weeks or until the improvement appears.
Remember that homeopathic remedies are prescribed based on individual symptoms and characteristics. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified homeopath for proper evaluation and personalized treatment. Homeopathy focuses on treating the whole person, so a detailed case study is necessary to select the most appropriate remedy.
Homeopathic medicines should be taken only when prescribed by a homeopathic physician. Self-medication may aggravate the original conditions.