Stomach discomfort is a common symptom that can occur for various reasons, including eating too much, consuming spicy foods, and drinking too much alcohol.
However, if you find that your stomach discomfort persists, it may be the result of an underlying medical condition. Here are five common diseases that cause stomach discomfort:.
1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a chronic digestive disease that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation.
Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, stomach discomfort, and regurgitation, which is the sensation of acid backing up into the throat. Certain foods, such as citrus, tomatoes, and chocolate, can trigger symptoms of GERD. Treatment for GERD includes making dietary changes, taking medication, and in severe cases, surgery.
2. Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcer disease is a condition that occurs when sores develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. These sores are known as ulcers, and they can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
Peptic ulcer disease is often caused by a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori. Treatment for peptic ulcer disease includes taking antibiotics and acid-reducing medication.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a functional digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea.
The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an increase in sensitivity of the bowel and a disruption in the communication between the brain and the gut. Treatment for IBS includes making dietary changes, taking medications to relieve symptoms, and reducing stress.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. There are two types of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, fatigue, and weight loss.
The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for IBD includes medication, dietary changes, and in severe cases, surgery.
5. Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents into the small intestine. Symptoms of gastroparesis include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
Gastroparesis is often caused by damage to the nerves that control the muscles of the stomach. Treatment for gastroparesis includes making dietary changes, taking medications to speed up stomach emptying, and in severe cases, surgery.