Stomach discomfort can be caused by a variety of reasons, and it can be a symptom of a range of diseases. It’s important to keep track of your symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist.

Here are six diseases that may be causing your stomach discomfort:.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and abdomen. This is known as heartburn.

Over time, GERD can cause damage to the esophagus, leading to complications such as ulcers and strictures. Treatment options for GERD include lifestyle changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition where stomach acid erodes the lining of the stomach or duodenum, leading to ulcers. The symptoms of peptic ulcer disease can vary, but they commonly include upper abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion.

Treatment options for peptic ulcer disease include lifestyle changes, medication, and in rare cases, surgery.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is a condition where the stomach and intestines become inflamed. This can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite. Symptoms of gastroenteritis include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Treatment options for gastroenteritis depend on the cause of the illness, but commonly include rest, hydration, and medication to manage symptoms.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a group of conditions where the immune system attacks the lining of the digestive tract, causing inflammation and damage. The most common types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Symptoms of IBD can vary, but commonly include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Treatment options for IBD include medication, dietary changes, and in severe cases, surgery.

Gallstones

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ that stores bile. These can block the flow of bile, causing abdominal pain and discomfort.

Treatment options for gallstones include lifestyle changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder.

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a condition where the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Symptoms of lactose intolerance can vary, but commonly include gas, bloating, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

Treatment options for lactose intolerance include avoiding or limiting dairy products, using lactase supplements, or consuming lactose-free products.