GASTRIC PROBLEM: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION & TREATMENT
Gastric troubles are a common medical condition that affects people around the world. Gas is a normal part of digestion, and it is usual to expel excess gas through burping or flatulence. However, you may have pain if gas becomes stuck or does not move efficiently in your digestive system, resulting in bowel distension, which some people find difficult to bear.
Gastric Problem
A gastric problem is defined as any ailment or disorder affecting the stomach or gastrointestinal tract, resulting in symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. Gastric difficulties can be caused by a variety of circumstances, including infections, inflammation, dietary choices, lifestyle factors, drugs, or underlying medical diseases.
Common Symptoms
Common signs of gastric disorders include passing gas, burping, pain, distension, bloating, a knotted feeling in the abdomen, nausea, hiccups, stomach ache, vomiting, indigestion, and ulcers, loss of appetite, burning sensation in the stomach, and heartburn.
Types of Gastric Problems
- Gastritis (stomach lining inflammation)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Peptic ulcers
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Gastric Problem Causes and Risk Factors
- Dietary factors:
Inadequate consumption of foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can aggravate stomach and digestive disorders. Consuming spicy, greasy, or fatty foods can irritate the stomach lining and cause symptoms of indigestion or acid reflux.
- Lifestyle factors:
A lack of physical activity or a predominantly sedentary lifestyle can impair digestion and contribute to gastric problems. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining, raising the risk of gastric ulcers and other gastric problems.
- Psychological factors:
Psychological stress can impair digestion and cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits.
- Medical conditions:
Bacterial or viral infections, such as Helicobacter pylori or gastroenteritis, can cause gastrointestinal problems and symptoms. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and celiac disease can all cause chronic gastric problems.
- Medications:
Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, antibiotics, and oral contraceptives, can irritate the stomach lining, raising the risk of gastric problems or ulcers.
- Other factors:
Gastric problems may be more common in older adults due to changes in digestive function and a higher prevalence of underlying medical conditions.
Treatment Options for Gastric Problems
Seek therapy for the underlying condition if it's the cause of your pain. Otherwise, you can try the following measures:
Diet Changes to Alleviate Gastric Problems
Reduce your intake of the following foods: beans, cauliflower, onions, cabbage, broccoli, Brussels, pears, sprouts, aerated drinks, dairy products, sugar substitutes/artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, and fried and fatty foods.
Other Home Remedies
- Reduce your meal portions
- Chew food well
- Do not smoke
- Do not chew gum
- Do not drink using a straw
- Check your dentures
- Increase your water intake
Conclusion
A gastric issue is an abdominal health problem that affects a large number of people. To rule out the possibility of any serious underlying problems such as diabetes or heart disease, it is always best to visit a doctor who can check the symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis.