GASTRIC PROBLEMS INCLUDE:

Gastro esophageal reflux, commonly known as heartburn, occurs when the stomach contents rise up into the esophagus. The most prominent symptom is a burning sensation in the upper stomach or chest.

Non-ulcer dyspepsia is characterized by discomfort in the upper stomach, and is often meal-related. The discomfort most often features a dull ache, a feeling of excessive fullness, gas and belching.

Gastric or duodenal ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach or intestine that may bleed. Ulcers may cause significant stomach discomfort, particularly between meals.

Gastric problems share similar symptoms but may have different causes, such as impaired motility (the process by which food moves through the digestive system), too much stomach acid, or an infection. Tests for the presence of a bacteria called H. pylori are available and strongly recommended for anyone who is being treated for an ulcer.

Gastric problems can he difficult to diagnose and often persist or recur without proper treatment. In order to properly assess your situation, your doctor will need a thorough and precise description of your symptoms, when they occur, how severe they are, what you ate beforehand and so on.

TREATMENT OBJECTIVES

To eliminate gastric discomfort and to treat its underlying cause.

TREATING GASTRIC PROBLEMS

The following lifestyle changes can help prevent or relieve gastric discomfort, depending on your symptoms.

Avoid excessive milk, caffeine, fried, fatty or spicy foods, alcohol mint, tomatoes, citrus fruit or other acidic foods.

Eat small meals; they are easier to digest than large meals.

Do not lie down until at least two hours after eating.

Do not smoke. Smoking increases the chances of having heartburn and slows the healing of ulcers.

Raise the head of your bed about six inches to help reduce heartburn.

Control your weight. Being overweight often worsens symptoms

If these lifestyle changes do not fully treat the problem, various medications are available, including antacids, acid suppressants, antibiotics, and motility agents. Some are available without a prescription; talk to your pharmacist about your choices.

Courtesy - Liverpool Pharmacy 715 Krosno Blvd