Stomach problems are common and can range from mild discomfort to more serious conditions. When you’re dealing with stomach problems, you want answers and solutions fast. Recognizing what’s causing your symptoms and how to manage them can go a long way in keeping those episodes to a minimum.
GERD is a condition where acid from your stomach flows back into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your throat to your stomach. This backflow of acid can cause heartburn, which feels like a burning sensation in your throat and chest. Over time, if GERD isn’t treated, the acid can damage the lining of the esophagus, leading to complications like ulcers or even a precancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus.
Managing GERD often starts with avoiding foods that trigger acid reflux, like spicy or fatty meals. Eating smaller portions and not lying down right after meals can also help.
Over-the-counter antacids can temporarily neutralize heartburn, but for persistent reflux, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, like proton pump inhibitors, which reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes.
Diarrhea is when you have loose, watery stools. When it lasts for more than four weeks, it’s considered chronic. This can happen for many reasons, including:
Treating chronic diarrhea requires a medical evaluation to understand the cause.
Staying well-hydrated is necessary because your body loses a lot of fluids. Avoiding trigger foods, such as dairy, gluten, and artificial sweeteners, can help.
If a condition like IBS is causing your symptoms, your doctor might recommend medications to regulate your bowel movements. In some cases, you may need a course of antibiotics if an infection is the root cause.
Constipation happens when you have difficulty passing stools or have fewer than three bowel movements a week. Uncomfortable bloating and hard stools that are difficult to pass are the most common symptoms. Long-term constipation can even cause hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in your rectum or anus.
To manage constipation, start by drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can worsen it. Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet can help soften stools, making them easier to pass. Regular exercise can also stimulate your digestive system. For occasional constipation, over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives may provide relief.
IBS is one of the most common digestive disorders, affecting the large intestine. People with IBS may experience a combination of:
IBS can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes. While it doesn’t cause permanent damage, it can be uncomfortable and difficult to manage.
Managing IBS often involves changing your diet to reduce symptoms. For example, many people with IBS follow a diet that avoids certain types of carbohydrates that can trigger bloating and other symptoms.
Stress management techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can also help since stress often makes IBS worse. In some cases, medications like antispasmodics, which reduce muscle contractions in the intestines, can be helpful.
This is an infection that causes inflammation in your stomach and intestines. It can lead to symptoms like:
Viruses and bacteria are the most common causes of gastroenteritis. Infection can spread easily through contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person.
The key to managing a stomach bug is staying hydrated because you lose a lot of fluids through vomiting and diarrhea. Drinking liquids with electrolytes can help. Rest is essential, and practicing good hygiene is important to avoid spreading the infection to others. Most cases resolve on their own in a few days, but if symptoms persist, you may need to see a doctor to rule out more serious causes like bacterial infections that might require antibiotics.
Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent or severe stomach symptoms, don’t ignore them. These include:
If you notice any of these warning signs, seek professional care right away.
While many stomach problems will go away on their own in a short period of time, it’s important to see an experienced gastroenterologist if your symptoms persist for several weeks or months.
Don’t live with any of these most common stomach problems – schedule an appointment today!
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