We all often deal with an occasional stomach upset — too much spice, a rushed meal, or stress can leave us feeling bloated or uneasy. Most of the time, it is nothing serious and usually passes with a little rest, some antacids, or a hot water bottle. But if your stomach troubles keep coming back or feel different and more intense than usual, it might be more than just simple indigestion.
Sometimes, constant digestive issues could be an early sign of something more serious, like ulcers, chronic inflammation, or even gastrointestinal cancer. Here is how to know when it is time to stop avoiding the symptoms and consult with a doctor.
When Should You Worry About Stomach Pain?
Mild indigestion can often be managed at home with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medicines. However, if you notice severe stomach discomfort or new symptoms, especially if they persist for more than 3 weeks, it is better to pay attention.
Here are a few signs your stomach issues may need medical attention:
Continuous Stomach Pain or Discomfort
Do you suffer from a bit of bloating or gas after eating? That is normal. But if you are feeling a dull ache, burning sensation, or pressure in your upper abdomen regularly, even after small meals, it is time to get it diagnosed. This kind of persistent pain can be a sign of ulcers, gastritis, or, in some cases, early-stage stomach cancer.
Losing Weight Without Trying
Weight loss might sound like a blessing, but it is not when it happens unexpectedly. Unexplained weight loss is a major problem and should never be ignored. So, if you are shedding kilos without changing your diet or workout routine, especially if it comes with a poor appetite or a feeling of fullness too quickly, consult Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, a gastrointestinal oncosurgeon in Kolkata.
Vomiting or Blood in Stool
Throwing up occasionally during an upset stomach is a common problem. But if there is blood in your vomit or you notice black, bloody, tar-like stool, that could mean there is internal bleeding in your digestive tract, which may be caused by ulcers, polyps, or something more serious.
Trouble Swallowing
If you have difficulty swallowing food or liquids or feel like something is stuck in your throat or chest, these signs can point to problems in the oesophagus or stomach. It can be linked to tumours or the narrowing of the food pipe.
Constant Fatigue or Weakness
Are you feeling exhausted all the time despite resting well? Chronic fatigue can be a sign of anemia. Besides, slow blood loss in the digestive system (from ulcers or more serious gastrointestinal conditions) can cause low haemoglobin levels, leading to extreme fatigue and weakness.
Conclusion
Persistent stomach problems should never be ignored, especially when signs like weight loss, bleeding, or fatigue accompany them. While not every stomach ache is a cause for panic, it is necessary to identify severe conditions early on. If you are concerned about your digestive health, consult Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, a leading Gastrointestinal oncosurgeon in Kolkata, for an expert evaluation. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications, improve treatment outcomes and help you live a healthy life.