13 Reasons for Stomach Problems and Pain
Stomach aches and problems related to it are experienced by us on a day-to-day basis. Sometimes, the reason for these aches can be serious. They might indicate an internal problem that needs attention. They can also be pointing out towards a certain chronic disorder that needs to be treated. Our tummy problems might seem casual and unimportant. But some symptoms require medical diagnosis and doctor’s advice.
1. Gastritis
Digestive juices are acidic in nature and the stomach needs protection from them. Sometimes, these juices can penetrate the protective layer to infect the stomach wall. This might be because of alcoholism, stress, bacterial infection or constant use of pain relievers. This irritation in the stomach lining is painful and thus can be a reason for stomach pain. It can be treated with antacids, antibiotics or medicines prescribed by doctors.
2. Stomach flu
This happens when a virus attacks the stomach lining or the lining of small intestine. It is a contagious disease transmitted by either contaminated food or from an infected person. It causes nausea, diarrhoea, fever, cramps and pain. Usually it gets out of the body by itself. But if severe symptoms like vomiting, blood in stools, and dehydration occurs, then they demand immediate medical attention.
3. Food poisoning
If the food being consumed is infected by virus, bacteria or parasites, then it causes food poisoning. Undercooked or poorly prepared meal is usually the cause for food poisoning. It leads to a painful stomach, vomiting, diarrhoea and in more serious cases blood in stools/vomit. If you have a weak immune system or are regularly experiencing food poisoning or have serious symptoms, then you should consult your doctor for further guidance.
4. Gall stones
Gallbladder uses juices that help in digestion. Sometimes these juices are converted into stones. These stones find shelter in the tubes of pancreas, liver, gallbladder and small intestine. This can lead to a painful stomach, dark coloured urine, light coloured stools, fever, vomiting, nausea etc. if the pain lasts for more than few hours or is unbearable, then you should contact your doctor.
5. Lactose intolerance
People who are deficient in lactase enzyme, cannot digest the dairy sugar called lactase. Due to this, they find it difficult to keep inside dairy products like milk and curd. They have problems like diarrhoea, gaseousness, bloating and stomach pain. They can switch to lactose free dairy or can take lactic pills.
6. Food allergy
Sometimes the food that we eat is received as a threat to the body by the immune system. Then the body reacts to it and causes not only stomach pain but also swelling and tickling in the mouth, throat and stomach. It can become insanely serious and can even lead to death due to sudden shock. It is important to inject epinephrine if an allergic reactions occur. Triggers like eggs, milk, fishes, peanuts, nuts etc. should be eaten with precautions.
7. Pancreatitis
Pancreas performs the function of processing sugar to digest food. Inflammation in pancreas leads to a stomach pain in the upper right part. It might also lead to nausea and vomiting. Mild cases are cured independently in some time. Serious conditions need doctor’s attention, where the patient is given medicines via fluid or an IV.
8. Diverticulitis
It is a problem related to the lower part of large intestine. Small pouches are formed in this part. They don’t cause any trouble until and unless they are inflamed or infected. In this situation they cause problematic bowels, stomach pain, and nausea. Proper rest and dietary changes can prove to be helpful. Doctors might prescribe certain antibiotics as well.
9. Peptic ulcers
Upper lining of the stomach or the small intestine often administer open sores. These sores can be a result of bacterial infection, or excessive intake of painkillers. Chain smokers and alcohol addicts can also experience these ulcers. Treatment for these sores is either by prescribed medicines that reduce acidity or antibiotics, depending upon the cause.
10. Bowel syndrome
This disease is particular to the large intestine. A person infected with this syndrome shows symptoms like cramps, bloating or presence of mucus in their stools. Their body keeps juggling between constipation and diarrhoea. The exact underlying cause is unknown but general reasons like quality of food, hormonal levels, stress levels, and infection might be the causative factors. Doctors usually prescribe medicines or introduce dietary and lifestyle changes.
11. Pelvic inflammatory disease
This disease is related to female reproductive system. The reproductive organs are inflamed as a result of any Sexually Transmitted Disease like chlamydia. It causes severe pain in the stomach, fever, unexplained discharge and blood during sexual intercourse. If it is detected in the correct frame of time, then it can be treated via appropriate medicines. If the diagnosis is somehow delayed, then it can lead to damaged reproductive system.
12. Appendicitis
It is the inflammation of appendix. Appendix is a small finger-like organ attached to the large intestine. The role it plays for the human body isn’t very clear. If it gets infected due to some circumstances, then it has to be removed surgically at the earliest. Delay in it surgical removal might lead to spreading of bacteria throughout the colon. It causes pain emerging from the belly button and moving towards the right side in the downward direction.
13. Constipation
This is a digestive problem that most of us suffer time and again. Insufficient amount of stools, difficulty in passing out stools, hard lump-like stools are some indicators of constipation. It can lead to stomach ache and sometimes headache as well. Staying hydrated, eating whole grains, focusing on fibres, exercising regularly are some of the common natural remedies for avoiding constipation. If the problem persists for few days or is recurring, then it is advised to visit a doctor for accurate diagnosis.
A painful stomach isn’t much of an issue most of the times. But if it continues to persist or keeps reoccurring then it might need medical attention. Maintaining a healthy diet and an active lifestyle can avoid problems and unreasonable diseases. Being cautious about what you eat and how you eat can also be a preventive measure against stomach problems.