There is a lot of info in here if you can stomach it.
Abdominal pain, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), diarrhea, and nausea.
What is Abdominal Pain?
Abdominal pain is both a symptom and an overarching term used to describe any discomfort in the intestinal area.
Abdominal Pain Causes
Because “abdominal pain” is such a broad term, causes for it run the gamut. However, there are some usual suspects which include:
- Gas
- Infection
- Abnormal growth
- Inflammation
- Blockage or obstruction in the intestine
What is Heartburn?
Heartburn is a burning pain or discomfort in the chest (and possibly neck and throat) that worsens when lying down.
Risk Factors for Heartburn
A symptom of GERD and acid reflux, certain factors can bring about heartburn including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Spicy foods
- Obesity
- Side effects from medication
- Pregnancy
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a digestive disease where stomach acid or bile irritates the food pipe lining causing medical conditions such as heartburn.
GERD Risk Factors
GERD can present itself for a number of reasons, and the following factors that put you at-risk are:
- Side effects from certain medications used for asthma, high blood pressure, or depression
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Existing medical conditions that weaken esophageal muscles such as sclerodera
- Existing nervous system issues
What is Chronic Nausea?
We’ve all felt nauseous from time to time, but chronic nausea, also called persistent nausea, is a problem derived from conditions such as GERD or stomach ulcers.
Chronic Nausea Risk Factors
As previously mentioned, GERD and ulcers can bring about chronic nausea, but the following are also risk factors:
- Pregnancy
- Pancreatitis
- Gastroparesis
- Hepatitis
- Anxiety
- Gallbladder disease
Sunnyvale Primary Care Can Help
As you can see, we treat a variety of stomach conditions. Dr. Kam and Dr. Fontenot along with the rest of the team here at Sunnyvale Primary Care are dedicated to making you feel comfortable as we improve your health and well-being.
