Gastric Problems: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Gastric problem is a common health condition that affects people around the world. Gas is a part of your normal digestion, and getting rid of excess gas by burping or flatus is also normal. But you may feel pain when gas gets trapped or does not move well in your digestive system and causes distension of bowel, which is poorly tolerated in some individuals. Read on as we delve deeper into gastric problems, exploring their causes, symptoms and treatment options. But first, some basics.

What is a Gastric Problem?

A gastric problem refers to any condition or disorder that affects the stomach or gastrointestinal system, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. Gastric problems can arise from various factors, including infections, inflammation, dietary choices, lifestyle factors, medications, or underlying medical conditions.

Common Symptoms of Gastric Problems

• Passing gas
• Burping
• Pain/Cramps
• Distension (increased size of abdomen)
• Bloating
• A knotted feeling in the abdomen
• Nausea
• Hiccups 
• Stomach ache (Abdominal Pain)
• Vomiting
• Indigestion 
• Ulcers
• Loss of appetite
• Burning sensation in the stomach
• Heartburn

Types of Gastric Problems

Gastric problems manifest in various forms. Some of the most common gastric problems include:

• Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Peptic ulcers
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)

Proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional are essential for managing gastric problems effectively and improving digestive health.

Gastric Problem Causes and Risk Factors

Gastric problems can arise from various other causes and risk factors, including:

Dietary factors

• Low-fibre diet: Insufficient intake of fibre-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can contribute to digestive issues and gastric problems.
• Spicy or fatty foods: Consuming spicy, greasy, or fatty foods can irritate the stomach lining and trigger symptoms of indigestion or acid reflux.

Lifestyle factors

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity or leading a predominantly sedentary lifestyle can slow down digestion and contribute to gastric problems.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: These habits can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastritis, ulcers, and other gastric issues.

Psychological factors

• Stress and anxiety: Psychological stress can affect digestion and lead to symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, or changes in bowel habits.

Medical conditions

• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections, such as Helicobacter pylori infection or gastroenteritis, can cause gastric problems and gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Chronic diseases: Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, or celiac disease can lead to chronic gastric issues.

Medications

• Certain medications: Some medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, antibiotics, and oral contraceptives, can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastric problems or ulcers.

Other factors

• Age: Older adults may be more prone to gastric problems due to changes in digestive function and a higher prevalence of underlying medical conditions.
• Genetics: Family history of gastrointestinal disorders or conditions like GERD or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may increase the risk of gastric problems.

Addressing these contributing factors through dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, and proper medical treatment can help prevent or manage gastric problems effectively.

Gastric Problem Treatment Options

If your pain is due to an underlying condition, seek the treatment of the disease first. Else you can try the following measures:

Diet modification to reduce gastric problems

Reduce the intake of the following food items-

• High fibre foods
• Beans
• Cauliflower
• Onions
• Cabbage
• Broccoli
• Brussels
• Pears
• Sprouts
• Aerated drinks
• Dairy products
• Sugar substitute/artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame, Saccharin
• Fried and fatty foods

Other Home Remedies for Gas Problem

• Take smaller portions of meals
• Chew food well 
• Avoid smoking
• Avoid chewing gums
• Avoid drinking through a straw
• Check your dentures
• Increase intake of water

Conclusion

A gastric issue is an abdominal health aberration that often affects many people. To rule out the potential of any severe underlying conditions like diabetes or heart disease, consulting a doctor to assess the symptoms and offer a proper diagnosis is always advised.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gastric Problems

1. Is the gastric problem a serious condition?

Gastric problems can range from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause and symptoms. While some gastric issues may resolve on their own or with simple remedies, others may require medical attention, especially if they persist or worsen over time.

2. Is lemon good for gastric problems?

Lemon water may help relieve symptoms of indigestion or heartburn for some people due to its alkalizing effect on the stomach. However, lemon juice may worsen symptoms for others, especially those with acid reflux or GERD. It's best to listen to your body and avoid lemon if it triggers discomfort.

3. Is hot water good for gastric problems?

Drinking warm or hot water may help soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of gastric problems, such as bloating or indigestion. However, individual responses may vary, and it's essential to listen to your body and avoid excessively hot water to prevent scalding.

4. What should I drink to reduce acid in the morning?

Drinking water, herbal teas (such as chamomile or ginger tea), or non-citrus juices (such as apple or pear juice) in the morning may help neutralise stomach acid and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn.

5. Is rice good for acid reflux?

Plain, white rice is generally considered easy to digest and may be well-tolerated by individuals with acid reflux or GERD. However, brown rice or other whole grains with higher fiber content may trigger symptoms for some people.

6. Is turmeric good for acid reflux?

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and may help soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially reducing symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn for some individuals. However, turmeric may worsen symptoms for others, and it's essential to monitor your body's response.

7. Is milk good for acid reflux?

Although milk may provide temporary relief from heartburn symptoms due to its alkaline nature, it can stimulate the production of stomach acid, leading to rebound acidity and worsening symptoms in the long run. It's best to consume milk in moderation and monitor its effects on your symptoms.

8. How to Cure Gastric Problems Permanently?

The cure for gastric problems depends on the underlying cause. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment tailored to your specific condition. Lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, medications, and other therapies may be recommended to manage symptoms effectively.

9. Can gastric problems be treated on their own?

Mild cases of gastric problems may improve with self-care measures, such as dietary and lifestyle modifications. However, chronic or severe gastric issues require medical evaluation and treatment by a healthcare professional to address the underlying cause and manage symptoms effectively.

10. Can gastric problems be hereditary?

While genetic factors may play a role in the development of certain gastric problems, such as GERD or peptic ulcers, the inheritance pattern is complex and may involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.