Gastric problems may arrive when you least expect them, while you are simply traveling or just eating junk food. Let's say you are traveling, eating junk food, and soon you experience a gastric problem. You may find it embarrassing, but developing gas in your digestive system is completely normal. You can either burp or pass gas (flatus). However, inappropriate it might seem in certain situations, this is still completely normal.
Gas may be trapped or not move well through the digestive system. Increasing the number of meals or changing eating habits can lead to gastric problems. There are certain disorders related to gastric issues, that may not be easily treated at home and require guidance from a healthcare professional.
When a person eats or drinks, the air is also swallowed with the food. This produces gas, but most of it is released while burping. At times, bacteria-fermented carbohydrates, fibers, and sugars don't get properly broken down into our digestive system. It may seem embarrassing, but this process is normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Our body does this every day to keep our internal functionality running smoothly.
Stress has been linked to various gastric problems such as acid reflux, indigestion, and stomach ulcers. When a person experiences stress, it triggers the release of hormones that can affect the digestive system, leading to increased production of stomach acid and reduced blood flow to the stomach lining. This can result in inflammation and damage to the digestive system, leading to gastric issues. Additionally, stress can also cause changes in eating habits and disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system.
A gastric problem can be easily diagnosed based on the signs and symptoms. Most gastric problems have symptoms of other gastrointestinal issues. Hence, they may overlap and be a cause of confusion.
You will need to visit the best gastroenterologist to identify the problem in depth. The medical professional may advise certain tests to find the cause of the problem and advise gastric problem treatment.
Some common tests done to identify gastric problems are:
1. Hydrogen Breath Test: This test identifies lactose or bacterial growth in the intestine.
Colon screening is a medical test used to detect colorectal cancer or precancerous growths in the colon and rectum. Screening options include stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonography. Regular screening is important for the early detection and prevention of colon cancer, which is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the world.
2. Gastrointestinal Tract Exam: This test examines your GI tract including the esophagus, stomach, and intestine.
Treatment for gastric problems depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Common treatments include antacids, H2 receptor blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and prokinetics. In more severe cases, a change in diet and lifestyle may be necessary, as well as antibiotics for infections and surgery for structural abnormalities. In addition, managing stress through exercise, mindfulness, and counseling may also help relieve symptoms. It's important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.