Heartburn is a common symptom among those around you. Besides stomach ulcers, GERD is also frequently mentioned. What's the difference between the two? Let's explore this further. "Maag" is another word for "stomach," or in scientific terms, "gaster." When we experience stomach pain, it's often caused by inflammation of the stomach, which is often referred to as gastritis.
Symptoms of Gastric Pain
Gastric inflammation is usually caused by increased stomach acid, which can be due to internal or external factors. One example of an internal factor is increased stomach acid production due to stress. It can also be caused by external factors. This can be caused by many things, including the food consumed or an overly empty stomach due to a late meal. The most common symptom is heartburn, a pain in the upper middle part of the abdomen. Gastric pain is also usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms of GERD
GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, can be caused by many things. It can be due to a genetic disorder that weakens the valve connecting the stomach to the esophagus, or it can also be a complication of gastritis or stomach ulcers. In this condition, stomach acid increases, rising into the esophagus, causing inflammation and, over time, affecting the valve, causing it to weaken. People with GERD typically experience a burning sensation in the chest. Stomach acid can also rise up into the mouth, causing a sour or bitter taste. It's also common to experience belching due to increased stomach gas.
How to Treat Stomach Ulcers and GERD
Because it's caused by increased stomach acid, initial treatment is to take medication that can neutralize stomach acid. Taking medications containing antacids can help treat this condition. These medications are available over-the-counter without a prescription. Therefore, if you frequently experience increased stomach acid, keep these medications on hand for emergency first aid. However, if your symptoms persist, it's highly recommended to consult a doctor for further evaluation to assess your current condition and determine if additional therapy is needed.
In chronic conditions where symptoms recur frequently and don't improve with medication and dietary changes, an internist will usually recommend further tests, such as an endoscopy. This examination can also help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms, such as the strength of the valve connecting the stomach to the esophagus or the presence of an infection in the stomach area that could trigger inflammation.
How to Prevent It?
To prevent acid reflux, it's crucial to maintain a healthy and regular diet and manage stress effectively. It's highly recommended to avoid late meals, overly acidic, spicy, and gassy foods. Also, avoid foods and drinks high in caffeine, as they can trigger increased stomach acid production. Furthermore, it's crucial to maintain a healthy posture after meals. It's highly recommended not to lie down immediately after eating.
It's best to wait at least two hours after eating before lying down. This can help prevent acid reflux into the esophagus, which can occur when lying down. Gastric ulcers and GERD are different conditions, but they can have the same cause. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid excessive stress. Written by Dr. Valda Garcia. Reviewed by Dr. Ernest Eugene.
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