5 Common Stomach Problems and When to Worry

Let’s face it — stomach problems tend to make an entrance at the most inopportune times. Whether it’s that surprise cramp before an important thing or the uncomfortable bloating after a simple meal, these problems are more common than we realize. We shake it off and start thinking it must be spicy food, junk food, etc. But other times, that little ache might be a little warning your body doesn’t want you to ignore.

And it’s no wonder—in our fast-paced lifestyles of irregular meals and fast food, our digestive system often takes at, and for no reason too. Although the majority of stomach problems are temporary and often go away on their own, like with home remedies, the condition can also lead to an upset stomach. The real challenge? Knowing the difference.

Your stomach itself can break the silence of uncomfortable feelings; it may gurgle, churn, growl, and even hurt or show signs of nausea. Knowing these signals can help you do a better job of taking care of yourself and prevent trouble that is happening in your body.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss in detail 5 common stomach problems and when to worry.

Chronic constipation:

Chronic constipation refers to when you are facing difficulty with stools, painful bowel movements, hard stools, etc., constant symptoms for several weeks or longer.

When to worry:

• Constipation that lasts 3 or more weeks
• You see blood in your stool.
• You feel sharp stomach pain.
• You are losing weight without trying.
• You are dependent on laxatives daily.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

GERD occurs when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus. It creates a burning feeling in your chest when it moves up through the esophagus (heartburn), a sour taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation), or the sensation of food being trapped in your throat or chest.

When to worry:

• You have heartburn at least twice a week.
• You find it hard to swallow.
• You wake up at night from a cough or choking.
• Chest pain, serious, like it’s a heart issue
• Persistent sore throat.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside of your stomach or the upper portion of your small intestine. They cause burning pain, particularly if your stomach is empty. They may be triggered by infection or overuse of painkillers.

When to worry:

• Sharp, ongoing stomach pain
• Very hot, vomiting blood, or black/fluid-like stool
• Black, tarry stools
• Losing weight or appetite
• Pain that wakes you at night

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a disorder of your bowel. It doesn’t injure the intestines but induces ongoing symptoms such as belly pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or both.

When to worry:

• Blood in stool
• Weight loss
• Signs that affect your sleep patterns
• Pain that keeps getting worse
• Abnormal change in bowel habit.

Crohn’s Disease:

Crohn’s is an inflammatory bowel disease that can occur anywhere in the digestive tract. It results in stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss.

When to worry:

• Loose, bloody stools, which may occur several times daily or less frequently
• Ongoing fatigue and weakness
• Severe stomach pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Skin issues or joint pain, along with stomach issues.

Indigestion:

It refers to pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen and difficulty in the digestion of food.

When to worry:

• Constant indigestion for over 2 weeks
• Severe or increasing pain in your lower belly
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting or blood in the vomit or stool.

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Final thoughts

Overall health needs to recognize the 5 Common Stomach Problems and know when to worry. Gas, indigestion, or perhaps just a touch of a cramp is fairly standard, not medically concerning. However, some symptoms, including severe pain, frequent vomiting, an extended period of bloating, or bleeding in his stool, should not be taken lightly. These are signs of a serious condition and should be treated as soon as possible. Be aware of your body, and if something feels off, do not hesitate; make an early appointment with the doctor and stay safe.