A woman in her 20s from mainland China who dismissed months of recurring stomach pain as a minor inconvenience—relying solely on hot water recommended by internet search results—has been diagnosed with gastric cancer. According to Chinese media reports, she finally sought medical help after six months of self-treatment, only to discover the pain was a symptom of something far more serious.
The case has resonated widely across social media, where countless users regularly seek health advice online. The woman initially believed drinking hot water would soothe her discomfort, as suggested by numerous unverified sources. Over time, however, her symptoms worsened, and she began experiencing persistent acid reflux. A hospital visit confirmed the devastating diagnosis. She underwent two surgeries, accumulating medical costs of more than RMB 200,000 (approximately HK$215,000). Fortunately, most expenses were covered by insurance, and her condition has since stabilised.
Does Hot Water Relieve Stomach Pain?
Not necessarily, according to Dr. Zhao Yi, a physician at Shenzhen Luohu Hospital. Dr. Zhao explained that drinking hot water does not ease stomach pain and may, in fact, aggravate the gastric lining if the temperature is too high.
He stressed, however, that hot water itself does not cause gastric cancer. The disease arises from a complex mix of factors—including diet, environment, genetics, and a family history of the illness. A particularly significant contributor is Helicobacter pylori infection, which has been directly linked to gastric cancer development. Dr. Zhao urged the public not to self-diagnose persistent discomfort but to seek professional medical evaluation instead.
How Can You Recognise Stomach Pain?
Surgical specialist Dr. Liu Zhuoling noted that the stomach sits in the upper central abdomen, between the ribcage and the navel. Pain caused by gastric disorders typically appears in this area, though it may radiate to the upper left or right side. When severe, the discomfort can spread across the entire abdomen and may be accompanied by a burning or aching sensation.
Dr. Liu’s guidance helps patients distinguish stomach-related pain from other digestive issues—an important first step before turning to home remedies.
Common Causes of Stomach Pain
Recurring stomach pain can stem from a variety of sources:
- Dietary habits: Spicy foods, excessive alcohol, and overeating place heavy strain on the stomach.
- Medication: Long-term use of steroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can irritate the gastric lining.
- Stress: Chronic anxiety and tension cause the stomach muscles to tighten, leading to sustained discomfort.
- Gastrointestinal conditions: Gastritis, peptic ulcers, and acid reflux all damage the stomach lining over time.
- Gastric acid imbalance: Both excess and insufficient acid production can trigger pain, with causes ranging from infection to nutritional deficiencies.
Traditional Relief: Food and Acupressure
Registered Chinese medicine practitioner Cinci Leung recommends lion’s mane mushroom as a stomach-soothing food. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it nourishes the stomach and spleen, supports digestion, and benefits those with bloating, acid reflux, or chronic gastritis. One suggested recipe involves simmering two mushrooms, five red dates, and half a chicken with ginger slices for about an hour.
For mild, intermittent pain, acupressure offers drug-free relief:
- Zusanli (ST-36): Located about four finger-widths below the kneecap. Press with the thumb for 30 seconds.
- Zhongwan (CV-12): Found midway between the breastbone and the navel. Gentle pressure here eases indigestion and bloating, though not within two hours of eating.
- Shangjuxu (ST-37): Positioned roughly seven finger-widths below the outer knee, this point helps regulate intestinal function.
A Wake-Up Call
This young woman’s ordeal is a powerful reminder that persistent stomach pain should never be managed with internet advice alone. Medical professionals agree that early detection—particularly through H. pylori screening and endoscopy—remains the most effective defence against gastric cancer. Anyone experiencing recurring discomfort, unintentional weight loss, or changes in digestion should consult a doctor promptly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Individuals should always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding persistent symptoms.