Stomach
Disorders

What are stomach problems?

People that have conditions that cause pain or discomfort in the abdomen, or affect digestion, are often described as stomach problems. These conditions may not always involve the stomach, but most stomach problems are related to the digestive tract. Stomach problems can involve one or multiple organs such as the stomach, gallbladder, or the appendix in the lower abdomen.

Generalized stomach problems may be associated with diet, infection or inflammation. Problems specific to the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract include heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), or peptic ulcers.

Symptoms

Stomach problem symptoms may be brought on by ingested foods, abdominal trauma, poisoning, heart attack, pneumonia, inflammation of the lining around the lungs, reproductive system conditions, and stones or infections of the urinary tract. Gas, bloating, constipation and diarrhea, which may arise from the intestines, can also be related to food intake or may be related to intestinal infection or inflammation.

Severe stomach problems that do not improve within a couple days can be symptoms of serious medical conditions. Seek immediate medical care for severe pain, an inability to have bowel movements, bloody-stool, vomiting blood, abdominal rigidity, breathing-difficulties, or upper abdominal pain. You should also seek immediate care if you have stomach problems, cancer, or might be pregnant and experience vaginal-bleeding or abdominal cramps.

Stomach problems may accompany other symptoms affecting the digestive system including:

• Abdominal pain, cramping, bloating or swelling
• Changes in bowel movements
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Gas or belching
• Bloody stool
• Nausea
• Vomiting