Gastric pain is generally used to describe upper abdominal pain, located above the belly button and below the ribs. Almost everyone has experienced abdominal pain, which is mainly associated with
meals and not caused by serious medical problems [1]. Gastric pain is a symptom, and it can be a symptom of a more serious illness. Gastric pain is sometimes called non-ulcer dyspepsia. The word dyspepsia itself refers to the presence of persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen.
Cause of Gastric Pain
While non-ulcer dyspepsia has no clear cause, doctors suspect a link with stress. In a minority of cases, tests can reveal the cause of the gastric pain to be one of the following:
Peptic ulcer disease
Peptic ulcer disease refers to an ulceration in the innermost layer of the stomach or duodenum wall (where the small intestine connects to the stomach). Most peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacteria that is known to cause ulceration in the stomach as well as to the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and other painkillers.
The good news is H. pylori infection can be diagnosed by a blood test, urea breath test, stool test or by tests done during endoscopy and it is very much treatable.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD is a digestive disorder that occurs when acidic stomach juices, or food and fluids back up from the stomach into the esophagus. GERD affects people of all ages—from children to older adults [2]. People with asthma are at higher risk of developing GERD. Asthma flare-ups can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, allowing stomach contents to flow back, or reflux, into the esophagus. Some asthma medications (especially theophylline) may worsen reflux symptoms [2].
To rule out GERD, your doctor may recommend an endoscopy. A medical diagnosis procedure that utilize thin tube containing a tiny camera is passed through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.
Gallstone disease
Gallstone are pieces of solid material that form in the gallbladder, a small hollow organ located beneath the liver. Gallstones form from hard deposits in digestive fluid and the formation itself usually do not cause any signs or symptoms [3]. However, inflammation of the gallbladder or blockage of the bile duct may lead to severe abdomen pain. Occasionally, gallstones on their own may cause pain without significant inflammation of the gallbladder or blockage of the bile duct. Ultrasound scans and CT scans can help to reveal the presence of gallstones.
Healthy Lifestyle Lower Risk of Diseases That Causes Gastric Pain
With the exception of gastric pain caused by bacterial infection, most chronic diseases associated with digestion issues can be overcome by simple lifestyle changes. Here’s what you can do to lower the risk of gastric pain.
Eat smaller but more frequent meals
If you often suffer from indigestion, have five to six smaller meals a day, rather than three square meals. The key is to not leave your stomach emptied for too long as this will stimulate secretion of pepsin which is also known as gastric juice. Gastric juice is acidic and will irritate the stomach lining.
Eat on time and avoid skipping meals
If snacking regularly isn’t feasible, setting consistent meal time helps to control the secretion of pepsin. This will accustom your stomach to release its gastric juices only during at mealtimes and not erratically.
Drink alcohol in moderation
Excessive amounts of alcohol may weaken your stomach’s protective lining, making you more susceptible to ulcers.
Quit smoking
Smoking increases the production of stomach acid, slows down healing and increases your risk of getting stomach cancer.
Manage your stress
High stress increases the production of gastric juices in your stomach. Exercise regularly and adopt relaxation activities such as yoga to keep your stress in check.
Diet Changes To Reduce Gastric Acid
Diet is an important player in your digestive health and your overall health. Following a gastritis-friendly diet can go a long way towards relieving your symptoms and helping you feel better [4]
Diet usually does not cause chronic gastric pain but eating some foods may worsen the abdominal pain, these may include spicy, fried and highly acidic food. These food groups are known to cause inflammation.
Some people find that the following foods and drinks help ease symptoms of gastritis:
Karihome Whole Goat Milk Powder
Goat’s milk is a good substitute for cow milk for people with gastritis. That is because goat milk naturally has a higher pH value than cow milk, which makes less acidic and more alkaline. On top of that goat milk is also high in protein which promotes a sense of satiation and controls the secretion of gastric juice.
Karihome whole goat milk powder is enriched with vitamin C, vitamin E, iron and zinc. It is also rich in natural calcium and vitamin D which is good for building strong bones and prevent osteoporosis. Karihome is a fully imported brand from New Zealand, it is formulated with mild heat processing method which preserves the natural nutrition.
Karihome whole goat milk formula is available in supermarkets, selected pharmacies, Chinese medical hall and baby shop. To request for sample, click the link below
https://www.karihome.com.my/ms-MY/sample/index