Understanding Common Stomach Disorders: Causes and Remedies

The stomach, located between the esophagus and small intestine, plays a crucial role in digesting proteins. Its main functions include storing swallowed food, mixing it with gastric acids, and passing the processed food to the intestines. Due to its vital role, the stomach can experience various issues.

Conditions such as heartburn and indigestion are widespread and affect many individuals.

Stomach Disorders and Their Treatments

Gastritis
Gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining. It occurs in two forms: acute, which happens suddenly, and chronic, developing gradually.

Research indicates that roughly 8 in 1,000 people experience acute gastritis, while about 2 in 10,000 develop chronic gastritis at some time. Symptoms include nausea, indigestion, loss of appetite, bloating, and hiccups. Causes range from stress and recurrent vomiting to viral or bacterial infections, heavy alcohol use, pernicious anemia, or autoimmune diseases.

Gastritis Treatment

Antibiotics combined with acid-blocking medications are prescribed if caused by H.pylori infection.

Vitamin B12 injections may be recommended, particularly if pernicious anemia is involved.

Peptic Ulcers
These occur when the stomach lining erodes, and if the ulcer extends deep into the tissue, it may cause perforation—requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing liquids, hunger pangs, fatigue, chest pain, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and vomiting. Those undergoing radiation therapy are also at increased risk.

Ulcer Treatment

Mild ulcers often heal on their own, but medical consultation is crucial to prevent recurrence.

Medications such as cytoprotective agents help shield the stomach lining and aid healing.

Hiatal Hernia
When a portion of the stomach protrudes through a gap in the diaphragm into the chest cavity, a hiatal hernia is present. An advanced form, paraesophageal hernia, can compromise blood flow to the stomach. Symptoms include stomach bloating and a bitter taste in the throat.

Treatment Strategies for Hiatal Hernia

Seek medical advice and consider medications for heartburn and stomach pain.

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure.

Avoid oily and spicy foods to minimize discomfort.