Nearly everyone experiences stomach gastric pain at some point. Stomach pain is a presenting problem for both serious and non-serious diseases and disorders. Physicians determine specific causes of stomach gastric pain by process of elimination, or differential diagnosis. After eliminating the possibility of a life-threatening ailment, the next step is to examine other possible causes and develop a treatment plan.
Gallstone Disease
Gallstones are small, hard, deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Gallstones form when there is too much cholesterol in the bile, or when the gallbladder does not empty completely. Bile is a liquid the liver produces to aid in digestion. Over time, a gallstone can move from the gallbladder toward the liver, blocking the bile duct. This blockage causes severe pain in the abdomen, usually on the right, upper side. Women are more likely to develop gallstone disease than men. Obese patients, male and female, are more likely to develop gallstones than non-obese patients. According to the University of California, San Diego Health System, over 25 million people in United States have gallstones. Treatment becomes necessary for about 50 percent of patients. The most common treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder.
Gastritis
Gastritis refers to a condition whereby the stomach lining becomes inflamed. The inflammation may be caused by an infection, an injury, certain foods, alcohol, or medication. The condition is sometimes accompanied by pain in the upper quadrant of the stomach. The pain may increase or decrease with food consumption. Other symptoms include bloating, nausea, or the sensation of fullness. The condition may be chronic or occur suddenly. Treatment is based on the source of gastritis. If it is induced by certain foods or alcohol, physicians may advise patients to discontinue those triggers. According to the Mayo Clinic, an infection caused by H. pylori bacteria is the most common cause of gastritis. Medication is used to treat gastritis caused by bacteria or excess stomach acid.
Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease encompasses a wide range of diseases affecting the colon and small intestines. Ulcerative colitis is one type of inflammatory bowel disease. It causes sores, inflammation, or ulcers in the lining of the rectum and colon. Stomach gastric pain is a common symptom of ulcerative colitis. Other symptoms include bloody diarrhea, appetite loss, weight loss, and joint pain. Patients with ulcerative colitis may also be anemic. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, for 25 to 40 percent of ulcerative colitis patients, the condition is serious enough to necessitate a proctocolectomy, surgical removal of the colon and rectum. For less severe cases, the disease is managed with drug therapy.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) refers to a condition affecting the lower intestines. Symptoms include stomach gastric pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. The stomach pain may occur after a meal and dissipate following a bowel movement. Scientists do not fully understand why patients develop IBS. According to Medline Plus, some patients develop IBS following an intestinal infection. Women develop the condition more often than men and it can occur at any age. Physicians often advise lifestyle changes to manage IBS symptoms. Stress reduction, exercise, and diet changes can help alleviate symptoms.
