Stomach discomfort can be caused by a variety of factors, including the food we eat, stress, and certain medications. However, if you’re experiencing persistent or worsening discomfort, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Here are six illnesses that could be causing your stomach discomfort.

Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial infections, certain medications, and chronic stress. Symptoms of gastritis can include:.

Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain
Bloating
Indigestion

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor. Treatment for gastritis depends on the underlying cause, but may include antibiotics, acid reducers, and antacids.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a digestive disorder in which stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and sometimes damage. Some common symptoms of GERD include:.

Heartburn
A sour taste in the mouth
Chest pain or discomfort
Difficulty swallowing

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain foods and losing weight, as well as medications to reduce stomach acid.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition in which painful sores develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. The most common symptom of peptic ulcer disease is abdominal pain, which may be relieved by eating or taking antacids.

Other symptoms can include:.

Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Weight loss

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may order an endoscopy or other tests to determine the extent of the ulcer.

Treatment may include antibiotics to kill the bacteria that cause the ulcers, as well as acid reducers and antacids to promote healing.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a group of digestive disorders that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. The two primary types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of IBD can include:.

Abdominal pain and cramping
Diarrhea
Bloody stools
Fever
Fatigue

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, your doctor may order a colonoscopy, blood tests, and/or stool tests to determine the extent of the inflammation.

Treatment for IBD typically involves medications to reduce inflammation, as well as lifestyle changes to promote digestive health.

Gallstones

Gallstones are hard, pebble-like deposits that can form in the gallbladder. They often don’t cause symptoms, but if they become lodged in a bile duct, they can cause severe abdominal pain. Other symptoms of gallstones can include:.

Nausea
Vomiting
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Fever
Clay-colored stools

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, your doctor may order an ultrasound or other imaging test to determine the extent of the gallstones. Treatment for gallstones typically involves surgery to remove the gallbladder.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder in which the immune system responds abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Symptoms of celiac disease can include:.

Abdominal pain and bloating
Diarrhea
Weight loss
Fatigue
Anemia

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, your doctor may order blood tests and/or an endoscopy to determine if you have celiac disease. Treatment for celiac disease involves strictly avoiding foods that contain gluten.

If you’re experiencing stomach discomfort and other symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor. He or she can help determine the underlying cause of your discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment.

By addressing your symptoms early, you can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.