Understanding Common Stomach Disorders: From Gastritis to Ulcers
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By Dr. Johny Cyriac, Chief of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Our stomach is one of the most hardworking organs in the body, yet it is also one of the most sensitive. Every day, I meet patients who struggle with conditions like gastritis and ulcers, often dismissing their symptoms until they become severe. As a gastroenterologist in Cochin, I believe awareness is the first step in protecting your digestive health.
Gastritis – The Irritated Stomach Lining
Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be triggered by stress, irregular eating patterns, excess alcohol, or infections such as Helicobacter pylori. Common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation in the stomach
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating after meals
While mild gastritis can sometimes be managed with dietary changes and medications, chronic untreated gastritis may progress into ulcers or, rarely, stomach cancer. This is why early diagnosis is vital.
Peptic Ulcers – When Irritation Becomes a Wound
An ulcer is essentially a sore that forms in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain:
- Persistent abdominal pain, especially after meals
- Indigestion and bloating
- Blood in vomit or black stools (a sign of bleeding ulcer)
Ulcers are often caused by long-term use of painkillers, H. pylori infection, or excessive stomach acid. Left untreated, they can lead to life-threatening complications like bleeding or perforation.
When to Seek Help
Not every stomach ache is harmless. If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, consult a GI specialist in Kerala without delay. Simple tests like endoscopy or a urea breath test can help us identify the cause quickly and start appropriate treatment.
At our gastroenterology clinic in Kerala, we combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalized care, ensuring that patients receive the right treatment plan — whether it’s medication, dietary advice, or advanced endoscopic procedures.
Ignoring stomach disorders can disrupt not only your digestion but your overall quality of life. Taking timely action helps prevent complications, keeps your gut healthy, and allows you to enjoy the simple pleasure of eating without worry.
Understanding Common Stomach Disorders: From Gastritis to Ulcers
By Dr. Johny Cyriac, Chief of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Our stomach is one of the most hardworking organs in the body, yet it is also one of the most sensitive. Every day, I meet patients who struggle with conditions like gastritis and ulcers, often dismissing their symptoms until they become severe. As a gastroenterologist in Cochin, I believe awareness is the first step in protecting your digestive health.
Gastritis – The Irritated Stomach Lining
Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be triggered by stress, irregular eating patterns, excess alcohol, or infections such as Helicobacter pylori. Common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation in the stomach
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating after meals
While mild gastritis can sometimes be managed with dietary changes and medications, chronic untreated gastritis may progress into ulcers or, rarely, stomach cancer. This is why early diagnosis is vital.
Peptic Ulcers – When Irritation Becomes a Wound
An ulcer is essentially a sore that forms in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain:
- Persistent abdominal pain, especially after meals
- Indigestion and bloating
- Blood in vomit or black stools (a sign of bleeding ulcer)
Ulcers are often caused by long-term use of painkillers, H. pylori infection, or excessive stomach acid. Left untreated, they can lead to life-threatening complications like bleeding or perforation.
When to Seek Help
Not every stomach ache is harmless. If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, consult a GI specialist in Kerala without delay. Simple tests like endoscopy or a urea breath test can help us identify the cause quickly and start appropriate treatment.
At our gastroenterology clinic in Kerala, we combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalized care, ensuring that patients receive the right treatment plan — whether it’s medication, dietary advice, or advanced endoscopic procedures.
Ignoring stomach disorders can disrupt not only your digestion but your overall quality of life. Taking timely action helps prevent complications, keeps your gut healthy, and allows you to enjoy the simple pleasure of eating without worry.
