Role of the Stomach

The stomach performs crucial functions:

1. Food Breakdown

Mixes food with acid and digestive enzymes.

2. Acid Production

Hydrochloric acid helps digestion and kills harmful pathogens.

3. Protein Digestion

Activates enzymes that break down proteins.

4. Defence Against Infection

Acidic environment prevents bacterial growth.

Any disturbance in these functions can cause stomach disorders.

Types of Stomach Diseases

1. Gastritis

Inflammation of the stomach lining due to infection or irritation.

2. Peptic Ulcer Disease

Painful sores in the stomach or duodenum caused by acid or H. pylori bacteria.

3. Stomach Infection

Caused by viruses, bacteria, or contaminated food.

4. Acid Reflux (GERD)

Stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing burning.

5. Hiatal Hernia

Part of the stomach pushes into the chest through the diaphragm.

6. Stomach Cancer

Abnormal tumor growth inside the stomach.

7. Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

Chronic discomfort after eating.

8. Gastroenteritis

Stomach and intestine infection causing diarrhea and vomiting.

9. Gastroparesis

Delayed stomach emptying due to weak muscles.

Causes of Stomach Diseases

Stomach diseases can be triggered by:

• H. pylori bacteria

• Spicy or oily food

• Stress and anxiety

• Overuse of painkillers (NSAIDs)

• Smoking

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Obesity

• Weak stomach lining

• Food poisoning

These factors weaken the protective lining, increase acid, or damage tissues.

Risk Factors

You may be more prone to stomach diseases if you:

• Eat fast food regularly

• Eat late at night

• Have a family history of ulcers

• Are overweight

• Smoke or drink

• Experience chronic stress

• Consume too many painkillers

• Have frequent acidity

Symptoms of Stomach Disease

Common symptoms include:

• Burning pain in upper abdomen

• Bloating & gas

• Nausea or vomiting

• Feeling full quickly

• Sour burps

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Black or bloody stools

• Chest discomfort

Persistent symptoms should never be ignored.

Severe Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care

• Sudden sharp stomach pain

• Vomiting blood

• Black, tarry stool

• High fever

• Severe dehydration

• Difficulty swallowing

These may indicate internal bleeding, ulcer perforation, or severe infection.

Complications If Stomach Disease Is Ignored

• Chronic ulcers

• Internal bleeding

• Hole in the stomach

• Blockage at stomach exit

• Severe anemia

• Risk of stomach cancer

Early treatment prevents long-term damage.

Diagnosis at Siddhi Vinayak Surgical Hospital

1. Endoscopy

A camera examines the stomach to detect ulcers, inflammation, bleeding, or tumors.

2. Ultrasound

Shows swelling, infection, or organ movement.

3. CT Scan

Detailed imaging for serious conditions.

4. H. pylori Test

Blood or breath tests detect bacterial infection.

5. Blood Tests

Check for anemia, infection, or inflammation.

6. Biopsy

Confirms cancer, chronic infection, or allergic gastritis.

Treatment Options

1. Medications

• Acid-reducing medicines

• Antibiotics for H. pylori

• Ulcer-healing drugs

• Antacids

• Antiemetics

2. Diet & Lifestyle Changes

• Avoid spicy, oily, or acidic foods

• Eat small frequent meals

• Avoid lying down after eating

• Limit caffeine and alcohol

3. Endoscopic Treatments

• Control bleeding

• Remove small tumors

• Treat narrowing

4. Surgery

Required for:

• Stomach cancer

• Ulcer perforation

• Hiatal hernia

• Blockages

Laparoscopic surgery ensures quicker recovery.

Living With Stomach Disease

To maintain stomach health:

• Follow a light, non-spicy diet

• Drink plenty of water

• Avoid smoking & alcohol

• Follow medication strictly

• Reduce stress through yoga and meditation

• Avoid overeating

• Eat slowly and chew well

Consistency is the key to recovery.

Prevention Tips

• Eat fresh, balanced meals

• Avoid processed or junk food

• Exercise regularly

• Don’t skip meals

• Sleep early, manage stress

• Avoid unnecessary painkillers

• Maintain a healthy weight

A healthy stomach supports overall wellbeing.