Treating Stomach Pain with Crohn’s Disease
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for Crohn’s disease, but managing stomach pain can be achieved through medication, changing diets, and stress reduction.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel illness that affects your gastrointestinal tract. The symptoms include stomach pain, cramps, and bloating.
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation explains that GI symptoms may be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Inflammation in the intestine
Stricture (narrowing of the intestines)
Stomach ulcers
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Certain foods
As Crohn’s differently affects each person, treating it isn’t one size fits all. You might have to try different things and see what works for you.
Below, we’ll discuss ways to alleviate stomach pain if you have Crohn’s.
Adjust Your Diet
Certain foods and beverages can cause stomach aches, which in turn cause flare-ups. Here’s a guide by the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation on what to avoid and what to consume:
Foods to Avoid Foods to Eat
• High-lactose foods (dairy) • Dry toast
• Fatty foods • Rice
• High-fiber foods (broccoli, beans, popcorn, nuts) • Eggs
• Raw fruits & vegetables • Bananas
• Fried, greasy, or spicy foods • Applesauce
• Added sugars • Chicken
• Alcohol & caffeine • Nut butters
• Yogurt
Remember: Reactions to food are different. Something that triggers another person may not trigger you, and vice versa.
A food diary can assist in identifying triggers. If you find a pattern, experiment by avoiding trigger foods.
Having 5–6 smaller meals a day (rather than large meals) can also be beneficial by reducing digestion while keeping you full.
Experiment with Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Certain OTC medications can help alleviate GI symptoms such as diarrhea, gas, and bloating, including:
Loperamide (Imodium A-D)
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
Psyllium (Metamucil)
Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
Hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan)
If these fail, consult with a doctor about pain relief. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually the go-to since it’s easier on the stomach.
Avoid NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve)—they can exacerbate stomach pain and cause ulcers.
Always consult a doctor first, since ongoing pain may indicate worsening inflammation to be addressed by adjusting prescriptions.
Try Herbal Remedies
Some of these herbs can calm stomach pain by easing inflammation or aiding digestion, including:
Ginger
Turmeric
Peppermint oil
Slippery elm
Marshmallow extract
Boswellia extract
They are available in teas, capsules, or powders. More studies, though, are required on their use for Crohn’s.
Note: Herbs have side effects or may conflict with medications. See a doctor before using them.
Reduce Stress
Stress may cause or exacerbate Crohn’s symptoms by raising inflammation in the gut and hindering digestion. Try:
Yoga, walking, or running
Meditation
Journaling
Tai chi
Deep breathing exercises
Set aside time daily for these practices.
Exercise Regularly
Gentle, consistent exercise may help by:
Lowering gut inflammation
Slowing disease progression
Boosting immunity
Reducing fatigue
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity).
If you’re new to exercise, consult a doctor first to create a safe plan.
When to See a Doctor
If stomach pain persists, your current treatment might not be working. A doctor can:
Review your symptoms
Tweak medications
Recommend lifestyle adjustments (e.g., smoking cessation)
Explore other choices such as biologics, immunosuppressants, or surgery
Bring your food/symptom diary to assist in personalizing your treatment.
FAQs
What’s the best pain relief for Crohn’s?
It varies depending on your symptoms. Choices include OTC medication, natural options, or prescriptions such as antispasmodics, NSAIDs, or opioids.
How do you prevent a Crohn’s flare-up?
Avoid foods that trigger it, exercise, reduce stress, try OTC medication, or take herbal options.
What foods calm Crohn’s?
Low-fiber, high-protein foods such as eggs, chicken, tofu, white bread, bananas, nut butters, and yogurt.
What beverages are best for Crohn’s?
Water is optimum, but broths, smoothies, and oral rehydration solutions may also assist.
Key Takeaway
Abdominal pain (cramps, bloating, gas) is typical with Crohn’s. Treatment might include dietary changes, OTC medication, herbs, and stress management.
If symptoms don’t resolve, visit a doctor to review your treatment plan.