Stomach disease
This includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (April 2008) |
Stomach diseases | |
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Other names | Gastropathy |
The location of the stomach in the body. | |
Specialty | Gastroenterology, general surgery |
Stomach diseases include gastritis, gastroparesis, Crohn's disease and various cancers.[1]
The
The term gastropathy means "stomach disease" and is included in the name of the diseases
Many stomach diseases are associated with infections. In the past it was widely but incorrectly believed that the highly acidic environment of the stomach would keep the stomach immune from infection. Many studies have indicated that most cases of stomach ulcers, gastritis, and stomach cancer are caused by Helicobacter pylori infection.[citation needed] One of the ways it is able to survive in the stomach involves its urease enzymes which metabolize urea (which is normally secreted into the stomach) to ammonia and carbon dioxide which neutralises gastric acid and thus prevents its digestion. In recent years, it has been discovered that other Helicobacter bacteria are also capable of colonising the stomach and have been associated with gastritis.
Having too little or no gastric acid is known as
There are many types of chronic disorders which affect the stomach. However, since the symptoms are localized to this organ, the typical symptoms of stomach problems include nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramps, diarrhea and pain.[2]
Gastritis
In the stomach there is a slight balance between
Gastroparesis
Another very common long-term problem which is now more appreciated is
Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract, even the stomach, although it's a rare presentation. Its main feature is inflammatory ulcers that can affect the total thickness of the stomach wall and can bleed but rarely perforate. Symptoms include abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Diarrhea is also a symptom that can develop, so checking stools for the appearance of blood is important. It is possible for symptoms of Crohn's disease to remain with a person for weeks or go away on their own. Reporting the symptoms to a doctor is recommended to prevent further complications.
Cancers
Cancers of the stomach are rare and the incidence has been declining worldwide. Stomach cancers usually occur due to fluctuations in acidity level and may present with vague symptoms of abdominal fullness, weight loss and pain. The actual cause of stomach cancer is not known but has been linked to infection with Helicobacter pylori, pernicious anemia, Menetriere's disease, and nitrogenous preservatives in food.[4]
Diagnosis
Endoscopy
There are many tools for investigating stomach problems. The most common is endoscopy. This procedure is performed as an outpatient and utilizes a small flexible camera. The procedure does require intravenous sedation and takes about 30–45 minutes; the endoscope is inserted via the mouth and can visualize the entire swallowing tube, stomach and duodenum. The procedure also allows the physician to obtain biopsy samples. In many cases of bleeding, the surgeon can use the endoscope to treat the source of bleeding with laser, clips or other injectable drugs.
X rays
Other radiological studies frequently used to assess patients with chronic stomach problems include a barium swallow, where a dye is consumed and pictures of the esophagus and stomach are obtained every few minutes. Other tests include a 24-hour pH study, CT scans or MRI etc.
References
- ^ "Gastropathy" at Dorland's Medical Dictionary
- ^ Chronic Stomach Information Retrieved on 2010-01-20
- ^ What is a stomach ulcer Mama's Health. Retrieved on 2010-01-20
- ^ Stomach Cancer MedicineNet. Retrieved on 2010-01-20
External links
- Digestive Diseases A-Z The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases