On Thanksgiving, we count our blessings and enjoy a day of food and family, sometimes in that order. But what we’re not thankful for is the tummy turbulence that follows a full day of eating rich and delicious dishes while dealing with extra stress of meal preparation, cleanup and guests. When the inevitable stomach ache strikes, you roll out the antacids, hoping it’s “just a passing thing” as you try to focus on the Dallas vs. Washington game. But when should you worry?
“The ER becomes much busier on holidays because of things like cooking-related injuries, casual sports’ injuries and gastrointestinal upset,” said Advance ER physician Dr. Rajesh Rao. “But we can handle being busy. We’re ready around the clock to help any patients with acute symptoms or injuries, so don’t hesitate to come in to one of our North Dallas locations if you’re in pain.”
Common symptoms of holiday overeating include:
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Bloating
- Gas and belching
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
“Having an upset stomach from overeating is normally nothing to be overly concerned about,” said Dr. Rao. “However, when it turns into real pain that doesn’t let up or is accompanied by other warning symptoms, then a visit to Advance ER might be in order. I hate to say it, but ‘listen to your gut’ and do come in if something is wrong.”
Warning signs that could indicate something more than a stomach ache is occurring:
- Fever
- Vomiting with blood in it
- Black, tarry stool
- Stool with blood in it
- Chest pain or tightness, discomfort or ache in the chest
- Loss of consciousness or dizziness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing
- Sharp abdominal pain that lasts or is painful to the touch
However, if it really is just a common stomach ache, here are 3 tips for dealing with it:
- Lay off the food and drinks for a while. Sip on water but not alcoholic, carbonated or caffeinated drinks. Try a tea known for helping with stomach ache such as peppermint, chamomile or green tea.
- Take an antacid to relieve the heartburn caused by stomach acid backing up past the sphincter in the top of the stomach and burning the esophagus. Remain upright to help the stomach empty.
- Loosen clothing that restricts stomach emptying.
Don’t let tummy trouble trip you up this Thanksgiving. “If your stomach ache persists for several hours after you’ve stopped eating and nothing seems to help, you can always come to Advance ER for a quick evaluation by a board-certified physician,” said Dr. Rao. “We are known for our fast access with almost no waiting time, and our on-site labs and imaging equipment ensure that you can get the care you need right away.”
Advance ER has two convenient locations and is open 24/7 every day to better serve you. Call us at (214) 494-8222. Advance ER – the right care in the right place at the right time.
Advance ER is available in two locations for your convenience:
Advance ER – Galleria Area
12338 Inwood Road Dallas, TX 75244
Advance ER – Park Cities
5201 W Lovers Lane Dallas, TX 75209
Meet Dr. Rajesh Rao:
Dr. Rajesh Rao is board-certified in Emergency Medicine and is a senior management partner at Advance ER. He received his medical degree at the University of Missouri at Kansas City. Dr. Rao is fluent in English and Telugu.
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