Discover a list of common stomach diseases, their primary signs, and how to manage them through medical care and lifestyle changes to improve digestive health.
What are common stomach diseases?
Various issues can affect the stomach and intestines. Some of the most common stomach problems include:
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Occurs when stomach acids rise into the esophagus, causing heartburn and pain extending from behind the breastbone to the neck.
- Stomach Ulcers: Sores in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcer). These result from ineffective protective mucus or excessive acid and can cause perforations in the stomach walls.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, which may result from certain medications or various medical conditions.
- Stomach paralysis: A condition that leads to the slow emptying of the stomach contents into the intestines.
- Dyspepsia: A feeling of abdominal discomfort that may result from overeating, fast food, or bacterial infections.
- Stomach Cancer: Malignant tumors that grow slowly due to the division of cancer cells, requiring precise medical care.
- Viral Gastroenteritis: A viral infection transmitted through contaminated food or drink, causing diarrhea and vomiting.
Causes and Complications of Gastritis and Ulcers
Bacteria can play a pivotal role in some infections; H. pylori is a spiral bacterium that lives in the lining and causes gastritis symptoms in 20% of carriers, increasing the risk of ulcers.
As for stomach ulcers, contributing factors may include:
- Smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Poor dietary habits.
- Bacterial infections.
Ulcer symptoms include a burning pain in the upper abdomen (especially at night or when hungry), bloating, and weight loss. In severe cases, blood may appear in vomit or stools may become black.
Heartburn During Pregnancy
Heartburn is a frequent early symptom for pregnant women, often starting in the second month and increasing in intensity during the second and third trimesters.
Causes of heartburn during pregnancy
- Hormonal Changes: Increased levels of progesterone and relaxin lead to the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and slower digestion.
- Fetal Pressure: As the uterus grows, pressure on the stomach increases, pushing acids upward.
- Gallstones: In rare cases, these may increase the risk of heartburn.
Ways to relieve heartburn during pregnancy
Discomfort can be eased through home measures such as:
- Dividing food into small, frequent meals and avoiding eating 3 hours before bed.
- Sleeping on the left side or elevating the head during sleep.
- Drinking water in small sips and avoiding it during meals.
- Chewing sugar-free gum after meals.
- Avoiding fried, spicy, acidic, and fatty foods.
Stomach Paralysis and Other Disorders
Stomach paralysis is characterized by symptoms such as feeling full quickly, nausea, and vomiting after eating. Stomach cancer, on the other hand, can cause loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and difficulty swallowing.
FAQ
What are common stomach problems during pregnancy?
Common symptoms include a severe burning sensation in the chest, a bitter taste in the mouth, frequent burping, and bloating, with the possibility of frequent coughing or throat inflammation.
How is H. pylori diagnosed?
This is done through four options: a breath test (measuring carbon dioxide), a blood test (searching for antibodies), a stool analysis, or a gastroscopy with a biopsy.
What are the symptoms of dyspepsia?
It usually appears as gas and bloating, nausea, and general pain or discomfort in the abdominal area, along with loss of appetite.
When to visit a doctor?
Seek medical care immediately if the following signs appear:
- Bloody vomit or black-colored stools.
- Sudden, sharp abdominal pain or persistent pain that wakes the patient from sleep.
- Constant vomiting or abdominal pain accompanied by fever.
- Unexplained weight loss, general weakness, or fainting.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting a specialist doctor.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team