Are gastric problem symptoms creating havoc and causing embarrassment for you? 

 Are you waking up with a bloated tummy?
Well, this is a very common issue in most Indian households. Read on to know the causes and solutions to gastric problems.

Gastric Problem Symptoms: A Concerning Health Condition

Gas in the digestive system is normal; there is no need to worry about burping or flatulence. Some people are likely to pass gas 20 times a day, which helps expel the excess gas and is not a medical condition. The problem occurs when this excess gas gets trapped in the digestive system, leading to bloating and uneasiness.

The stomach produces gastric and hydrochloric acid, which aids in digestion. However, when an excess of this acid is made, which is not needed for digestion, gas formation occurs, leading to gastric problems.

Gastric problems are a common health problem affecting the gastrointestinal system. Pain in the abdomen, indigestion, acidity, and vomiting can cause anxiety and restlessness in individuals. 

A sedentary lifestyle, dietary habits, time of food consumption, infections in the body, or ongoing medications are major factors leading to gastric problems.

Gastric Problem Symptoms: Causes You Need to Know

Hectic schedules followed by failure to organize the day lead to skipping meals, staying on an empty stomach for a long time, and then suddenly gulping junk, pre-packed, or processed food to curb hunger pangs. This exploits the gut's flora and fauna, leading to severe gastric problems. 

Another major reason is swallowing the food without properly chewing it, and feeling stressed and anxious. Stomach infections can also lead to gastric problems. Bacteria like Helicobacter pylori that dwell on the stomach’s mucous lining can lead to ulcers and other intestinal issues if not treated in time.

Some other causes of gastric problems could be : 

• Constipation
• Kidney Stones
• Tumors
• Pancreatitis Issues
• Lactose intolerance
• Diabetes
• Peptic Ulcer
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Food Poisoning
• Celiac disease or problems caused by gluten consumption
• Indigestion or dyspepsia

Health is wealth, so keep a check on it.

10 Gastric Problem Symptoms to Watch Out For 

Don’t neglect these signs if there is a recurrence of the below-mentioned symptoms, and seek medical attention for timely diagnosis :

1. Pain in the abdomen
2. Frequent passing of gas & burping
3. Cramps or discomfort in the stomach
4. Burning sensation in the stomach
5. Loss of appetite
6. Acidity & heartburn
7. Nausea and vomiting
8. Indigestion and Bloating
9. Ulcers or sores on the lining of the stomach
10. Changes in bowel movement & stool colour

Being mindful, identifying the cause, and taking precautions can help overcome gastric problems.

10 Best Tips to Manage Gastric Problems Symptoms With Dietary Modifications

Simple measures and changes in the diet that can help take Charge of gastric problems are:

1. Stay hydrated by consuming aloe vera juice, coconut water, cold milk, and apple cider vinegar, as they relieve bloating.
2. Add ginger, garlic, and mint leaves to the diet to improve digestion and lower the risk of stomach pain, inflammation, and indigestion.
3. Certain spices, such as cumin, fennel seeds, asafoetida, carom seeds, clove, cinnamon, and dry ginger powder, resolve gastric problems. 
4. Add citrus fruits like oranges, grapes, and lemons to the diet to help digestion.
5. Fruits that do not cause acidity and are light on the stomach, such as papayas, melon, and cucumbers, are a must in the diet.
6. Consuming yogurt acts as a probiotic and is great for gut health.
7. Switch to herbal tea made with ginger, fennel, and chamomile instead of milk tea.
8. Take homemade whole-grain food items, and make the plate colorful by adding green leafy vegetables and fruits.
9. Don’t keep long gaps between meal times. Eat frequently but limit the portions, and chew the food properly.
10. You should avoid consuming items such as: 

• Fried & Spicy food
• Sugar-loaded foods and drinks
• Carbonated drinks
• Smoking 
• Alcohol
• Chewing gum

Certain foods, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, beans, mushrooms, wheat, dairy products, and red meat, trigger gastric problem symptoms. It is best to consume these in moderation and not at late hours. 

Making these simple modifications can help overcome gastric problems. Proper sleep hygiene and rest for 7-8 hours are also essential for the digestive system to function properly.

Top 6 Conditions Triggering Gastric Problems

You might face frequent gastric problem symptoms if you are:

1. Traveling and changing places frequently lead to climatic and dietary changes, affecting the digestive system.
2. Leading a sedentary lifestyle with no exercise or yoga
3. Undergoing hormonal changes, especially during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy
4. Sensitive to certain food items
5. Taking certain medications that interfere with the digestive process
6. Have problems in bowel movements or hold poop for long

Risks of Ignoring Gastric Problem Symptoms

Gastric problems and intestinal discomfort, such as continuous bloating and regular acidity issues, if left untreated, can lead to health complications and gastrointestinal diseases such as:

• Gallstones
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Hemorrhoids
• Diverticular disease
• Oesophageal cancer and colitis.

If there is no sign of improvement after dietary and lifestyle modifications, it is suggested that you seek medical advice from a gastroenterologist. You can also get a blood test done from Redcliffe Labs to learn more about your digestive health and immune function. 

Carbohydrates & Gastric Problems

The large intestine has many bacteria, fungi, and viruses that comprise the gut microbiome. The microbes in the digestive tract aid digestion, helping break down carbohydrates and creating gas during this process. 

Undigested carbohydrates from the small intestine are also passed to the large intestine, where the bacteria break them down, forming gas. Thus, a carbohydrate-rich diet can lead to excess gas formation, causing gastric problems and issues like abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Did You Know Swallowed Air Can Lead to Gas?

If you frequently experience gastric problems, it could be because you swallow air while eating or drinking that does not leave the stomach, causing bloating and leading to gas release from the anus.

What to Avoid?

• Fizzy and carbonated drinks
• Smoking
• Chewing gum and candies
• Eating too fast 

Be careful and take precautions to avoid gastric problems. If they persist, get a doctor's consultation and a proper diagnosis.

Redcliffe Labs: Your Trusted Diagnostic Partner

You can consult your doctor and get your blood test done to know if any underlying health conditions are triggering gastric problem symptoms.

Redcliffe Labs brings you the comfort of home sample collection at affordable rates across India. Book a test with us today and uncover the reasons for your gastric problem symptoms.

FAQ

• How to cure gastric problem symptoms immediately?

If you experience gastric problems, drink warm water, chew fennel seeds, drink ginger tea, or walk around to stimulate digestion and let the gas pass.

• Can gastric problems lead to chest pain?

Yes, gastric problems can lead to chest pain if you have swallowed too much air or consumed food that produces gas.