Various stomach problems can arise due to a range of causes, including dietary choices, infections, lifestyle factors, and underlying medical conditions. Here are some common stomach problems and their potential causes:
Indigestion:
● Causes: Overeating, eating too quickly, consuming fatty or spicy foods, stress, smoking, and certain medications.
Gastroenteritis:
● Causes: Viral or bacterial infections, contaminated food or water, poor hygiene practices, and contact with infected individuals.
Gastritis:
● Causes: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, excessive alcohol consumption, long-term use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), or stress. Refer to a Best Gastroenterologist in Lahore to know more.
Peptic Ulcers:
● Causes: H. pylori infection, long-term use of NSAIDs, excess stomach acid production, and stress.
Heartburn (Acid Reflux):
● Causes: Weakness of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), leading to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Triggered by certain foods, obesity, pregnancy, or hiatal hernia.
Constipation:
● Causes: Insufficient fiber intake, inadequate fluid intake, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions.
Diarrhea:
● Causes: Infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), food intolerances, certain medications, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and stress.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
● Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but factors such as stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and bacterial overgrowth in the intestines may contribute.
Celiac Disease:
● Causes: An autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Diverticulitis:
● Causes: Inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the walls of the colon. Causes may include a low-fiber diet and aging.
Gallstones:
● Causes: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder, often formed from cholesterol or bilirubin. Genetic factors, obesity, rapid weight loss, and certain conditions affecting the gallbladder can contribute.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):
● Causes: Chronic acid reflux that damages the esophageal lining. Contributing factors include obesity, hiatal hernia, pregnancy, and certain lifestyle choices.It’s important to note that these causes are not exhaustive, and individual cases may vary. If someone is experiencing persistent or severe stomach problems, it’s advisable to consult a Gastroenterologist in Karachi for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.