Stomach Disease
Stomach disorders, also known as gastrointestinal disorders or digestive disorders, encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the functioning of the stomach and/or the digestive system as a whole.
Stomach disorders can have various complications depending on the specific condition. Here are a few examples:
a) Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid and, sometimes, bile flow back into the esophagus. This backward flow is known as acid reflux. Common symptoms of GERD include Heartburn, Regurgitation, Chest pain, Difficulty swallowing, Chronic cough, and Hoarseness or sore throat.
b) Peptic Ulcers: Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine (duodenum), or esophagus. Symptoms of peptic ulcers can vary, but common signs and symptoms include Abdominal pain, Indigestion, Nausea and vomiting, and Loss of appetite.
c) Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Gastrointestinal bleeding refers to any form of bleeding that occurs within the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. Symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding can vary depending on the location and severity of the bleeding. They may include Bright red blood in the vomit (hematemesis) or in the stool (hematochezia), Dark, tarry stools (melena), indicating partially digested blood, Abdominal pain or discomfort, Weakness, fatigue, or lightheadedness, Feeling faint or dizzy, and Nausea or vomiting.
d) Gastritis: Gastritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining. It can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or persist over a longer period (chronic gastritis). Abdominal pain or discomfort, Nausea or vomiting, Loss of appetite, Bloating or feeling of fullness after eating, Indigestion, Belching, and Blood in vomit or stools.
e) Gastroparesis: Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the normal movement of the muscles in the stomach, resulting in delayed emptying of food from the stomach into the small intestine. This delay in gastric emptying can cause various symptoms and complications.The symptoms of gastroparesis can vary in severity and may include Nausea and vomiting, often after eating, Feeling full quickly or a persistent feeling of fullness, Bloating and abdominal distension, Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), Lack of appetite and unintended weight loss, and Changes in blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.