Stomach Disorders

Stomach disorders can be painful and difficult to treat. This is due to the fact that many stomach disorders have symptoms that can be similar in nature.

Identification

• The stomach is an organ with three functions. It stores the food you eat, mixes it with stomach acid and sends it on to the intestines.

Types

• Indigestion is a common stomach disorder that most people have experienced. It can make you feel bloated, cause a burning sensation in you upper abdomen and at times, can cause nausea. Indigestion is caused by greasy foods and is usually treated with antacids.

Types

• Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach caused by a virus, bacteria or parasite. It is the second most common cause of illness in the United States. Gastroenteritis may cause abdominal pain, vomiting, headache, fever, chills and diarrhea. It can be reduced by avoiding infected people and washing hands frequently.

Types

• Stomach cancer is one of the most serious stomach disorders. It can often be difficult to diagnose in the early stages, because the symptoms are common. Early-stage symptoms are indigestion and stomach pain. Later stage symptoms often include unexplained weight loss, trouble swallowing, jaundice and blood in the stool.

Prevention/Solution

• It is important to seek medical treatment for stomach pain that is sharp or severe, is accompanied by pain in the neck or shoulder, if you are vomiting blood or have blood in your stool or if your abdomen is hard and tender to the touch. These could be signs of a serious medical condition and should be treated immediately.