Common Stomach Disorders

Common Stomach Disorders

The stomach and upper digestive system can be affected by several conditions that cause pain, burning, nausea, bloating, indigestion, vomiting, or changes in appetite. Some are temporary, while others may need testing or long-term treatment.

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🟣 1. Gastritis

➟ Gastritis means inflammation or irritation of the stomach lining

➟ It may cause upper abdominal burning, nausea, bloating, or loss of appetite

➟ Common causes include H. pylori infection, NSAID painkillers, and alcohol

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🟣 2. Peptic Ulcer

➟ A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the stomach or duodenum

➟ It may cause burning or gnawing upper abdominal pain, nausea, or indigestion

➟ H. pylori and regular NSAID use are two major causes

➟ Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools requires urgent medical care

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🟣 3. Acid Reflux (GERD)

➟ GERD occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the oesophagus

➟ Typical symptoms include heartburn, sour taste, and regurgitation

➟ Symptoms often worsen after large meals or when lying down

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🟣 4. Hiatal Hernia

➟ A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves upward through the diaphragm

➟ Many people have no symptoms, but it can contribute to acid reflux, heartburn, or chest discomfort

➟ Larger hernias may occasionally cause swallowing problems or persistent symptoms

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🟣 5. Gastroenteritis

➟ Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, commonly caused by a viral or bacterial infection

➟ It can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever, and nausea

➟ The main concern is dehydration, especially in children and older adults

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🟣 6. Functional Dyspepsia

➟ Functional dyspepsia causes persistent or recurrent indigestion without an obvious structural disease

➟ Symptoms may include upper abdominal discomfort, early fullness, bloating, or burning

➟ Symptoms can be triggered by meals, stress, or certain foods in some people

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🟣 7. Gastroparesis

➟ Gastroparesis means the stomach empties food more slowly than normal

➟ It may cause early fullness, nausea, vomiting, bloating, or upper abdominal discomfort

➟ Diabetes is an important cause, although medicines and other conditions can also contribute

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🟣 8. Stomach Polyps

➟ Stomach polyps are growths that develop on the inner lining of the stomach

➟ Most cause no symptoms and are found during an upper endoscopy

➟ Some types have a small risk of becoming cancerous and may need removal or monitoring

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🟣 9. Stomach Cancer

➟ Stomach cancer may initially cause few or vague symptoms

➟ Possible warning signs include persistent indigestion, early fullness, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or anaemia

➟ Persistent symptoms, especially with weight loss or bleeding, should be investigated

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🟣 Seek Medical Advice If

➟ Upper abdominal symptoms persist or keep returning

➟ You develop unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or reduced appetite

➟ You have difficulty swallowing or feel full after very small meals

➟ You develop iron-deficiency anaemia or unexplained fatigue

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🟣 Seek Urgent Medical Care If

➟ You vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

➟ You pass black, tarry stools

➟ You develop severe or sudden abdominal pain

➟ You cannot keep fluids down or develop signs of significant dehydration

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Medical disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Persistent, worsening, or unexplained digestive symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.