A look at “Burning Sensation in the Stomach” Several conditions can create burning sensations in the stomach. Other symptoms may accompany it, although not usually. You’re not alone if you’re feeling burning in your stomach. Many people describe a burning or “gnawing” pain in their stomach.
Another medical problem or an altered lifestyle usually causes this discomfort.
People should be aware that a burning feeling in the lower part of the abdomen is unusual. The pain is most common in the lower abdomen, usually accompanied by GERD and PUD. The burning sensation in the lower part of the abdomen is commonly associated with urinating, indicating an infection of the urinary tract (UTI). A UTI, on the other hand, may not cause any stomach pain.
Several gynecological diseases related to lower abdomen pain feel like burning in females.
In this article, we will look into the causes of the Burning sensation in the stomach and how to treat them, so continue reading to know more.
Stomach Burning: Why does it happen?
Stomach burning or heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It is a common condition that affects about 20% of adults in the United States.
GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus more often than usual. It can cause heartburn, as well as other symptoms, such as:
- A sour taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of food or acid
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
If you have heartburn that is severe or doesn’t go away with home remedies, see your doctor. They may prescribe stronger medications or recommend other treatments.
What causes a stomach sensation in your stomach?
Some common gastrointestinal issues that might result in a Burning sensation in the stomach include:
1. Acid indigestion:
When stomach acid leaks back into the esophagus, it causes gastroesophageal reflux.
It can cause burning sensations in your chest and stomach, chest pain, swallowing trouble, and constant coughing.
If GERD is not treated, it can progress to Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition.
Certain meals, beverages, or components can aggravate GERD. These could include:
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- Citrus
- Fried and fatty dishes
- Flavorings with mint
- Spicy meals
- Garlic
- Onions
- Foods containing tomatoes
2. Gastritis:
Gastritis is a disorder that produces inflammation in the stomach lining. Aside from burning intestines, you may also experience:
Gastritis can sometimes cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, or an increased risk of stomach cancer.
3. Infection with Helicobacter pylori:
Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) occurs when germs infect your stomach. H. pylori infects at least two-thirds of the world’s population.
Many people do not have symptoms; however, some do:
- Stomach discomfort
- Nausea
- Appetite loss
- Bloating
- Slimming down
- Burping regularly
Infection with H. pylori is a leading cause of ulcers in the stomach and can raise a person’s chance of getting stomach cancer.
4. Ulcers:
Peptic ulcers are lesions on the stomach’s inner lining and the small intestine’s upper region. The most typical symptom of an ulcer is burning stomach discomfort. However, you could additionally experience:
- A sense of completeness
- Bloating
- Burping
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to specific foods
Some people with peptic ulcers don’t have any noticeable symptoms. So the ulcer gets worse when you get stressed or eat spicy foods more.
5. IBS (irritable bowel syndrome):
IBS is an intestinal problem that produces abdominal pain and, in some cases, a burning sensation. Other signs and symptoms include:
In the United States, between 25 and 45 million people suffer from IBS. The precise cause of the ailment is unknown.
6. Indigestion:
Indigestion, commonly known as dyspepsia or simply a stomachache, is characterized by pain in the upper abdomen. It could be a sign of another intestinal issue.
One typical complaint among indigestion sufferers is a Burning sensation in the stomach. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Feeling full after eating
- Feeling satisfied despite not eating much
- Heartburn
- Burping
7. Certain Medications:
Certain medications, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS), can induce gastrointestinal problems, including a burning sensation in your stomach.
NSAIDS that are commonly used include:
- Aspirin
- Celebrex (celecoxib)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Indocin (indomethacin)
- Orudis (Oruvail) with ketoprofen
- Daypro (oxaprozin)
If you have stomach pain when taking an NSAID, consult your doctor.
8. Hernia:
When an organ pulls through the muscle and tissue surrounding it, it causes a hernia. There are many forms of hernias; a few might induce feelings of burning where the protrusion is.
Other hernia symptoms, depending on the type, may include:
soreness or discomfort in the vicinity of the affected area
while removing a feeling that fullness
9. Food-related reactions:
Some people may experience stomach burning due to allergic reactions or food intolerances.
For example, if you are lactose intolerant, your body does not create enough of the enzyme required to take in lactose in milk. Milk products may lead to nausea, bloating, cramps, and stomach burning.
Similarly, when celiac disease patients consume gluten, a protein contained in wheat, their bodies assault their small intestines. They may endure diarrhea, weight loss, and bloating due to digestive issues.
10. Smoking cigarettes:
Smoking Cigarette Smoking has an impact on your entire body. People who smoke have a higher prone to experiencing stomach pain and digestive issues, such as:
- Peptic ulcers caused by GERD
- Crohn’s disease is a kind of IBD.
According to data from the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive, Kidney, and Liver Diseases, nearly one-fifth of all individuals in the United States smoke, and around 443,000 Americans die each year from diseases caused by the use of cigarettes.
11. Alcohol:
Alcohol consumption can irritate the digestive tract and induce a burning feeling in the stomach. Too much alcohol consumption can result in:
- Ulceration in the stomach
- Gastritis and another gastrointestinal issue
Some people additionally have alcohol intolerance, an illness in which the body cannot absorb alcohol.
12. Gastric cancer:
Cancer can sometimes induce a burning feeling in your stomach. Other stomach cancer symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Feeling full after a meal
- Lack of appetite.
- Severe indigestion or heartburn
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slimming down
Food That Can Cause Stomach Burning
Having discussed the foods that you should eat during stomach burning, let us also take a look at certain foods and habits that you should avoid. If you have any food allergies or are suffering from GERD or chronic acidity, then you should avoid those foods that cause allergies and the ones mentioned below.
● Milk and dairy products
● Gluten foods
● Alcohol
● Fried foods
● Caffeine
● Chocolate
● Citrus fruits
Along with these foods, you should also try to avoid stressful situations and late-night food binges. On the contrary, try to maintain a healthy weight, eat smaller meals, and be on time, and if you smoke, then give up smoking.
How can you treat the burning sensation stomach?
Treatment options are dependent on the cause of your stomach pain.
For the treatment of GERD, gastroenteritis, indigestion, ulcers, and IBS.
GERD, gastritis, constipation, ulcers, or IBS symptoms are frequently relieved with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription drugs.
For Helicobacter pylori
Antibiotics are an effective treatment for H. pylori infection.
For the treatment of acid reflux or hernias
Surgery is sometimes done to treat serious cases of reflux acid and repair hernias.
In the case of NSAIDs
If NSAIDs are causing your stomach pain, your doctor may advise you to take an alternative pain reliever, including acetaminophen (Tylenol).
If you have heartburn that is severe or doesn’t go away with home remedies, see your doctor. They may prescribe stronger medications or recommend other treatments.
Here are some additional tips to help prevent heartburn:
- Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly.
- Don’t eat within 3 hours of bedtime.
- Avoid carbonated drinks and alcoholic beverages.
- Manage stress levels.
- Exercise regularly.
If you have heartburn, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. They can also help you develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Conclusion
A burning sensation in the stomach, often known as indigestion, is a set of gastrointestinal symptoms. Stress, food, medication, or medical issues are some possible causes.
Lifestyle adjustments and the avoidance of specific meals and beverages can substantially impact. There are also prescription indigestion medications available, such as Tums and Maalox.
If food and lifestyle changes aren’t working, it’s time to consult with a healthcare specialist. There are many prescription medicines accessible, and they will be ready to help you select the one that is suitable for you. Surgery may be recommended for moderately to severe dyspepsia.
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