Gastric pain is common, but misconceptions often delay treatment. In Malaysia, changing lifestyles and diets have led to more gastric disorders, disrupting daily life.
Gastritis occurs when your stomach lining becomes inflamed or irritated. Normally, it can handle stomach acid, but certain habits or substances can weaken it, causing discomfort.
● Bloating: A sensation of tightness or fullness in the stomach, often accompanied by visible swelling of the abdomen.
● Burping: Frequent belching as the body attempts to release excess air trapped in the stomach.
● Nausea: A queasy feeling or an urge to vomit, often triggered by eating or drinking.
● Stomach Discomfort: A dull or sharp ache in the upper abdomen, typically associated with food or drink consumption.
● Vomiting: Persistent vomiting, especially if blood is present, may signal a bleeding ulcer or severe gastritis and requires immediate medical attention.
● Burning Pain: A sharp, burning sensation in the upper stomach or chest, commonly caused by acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or severe gastritis.
● Indigestion and Acid Reflux: Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is often caused by overeating, eating too fast, or heavy meals, leading to discomfort, bloating, and nausea.
● Infections (H. pylori and Gastritis): Gastric pain is often linked to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which damages the stomach lining and causes gastritis and ulcers. This bacterium weakens stomach defences, letting acid harm tissue, leading to abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea. Studies estimate 70–90% of Malaysians may carry H. pylori, though not all show symptoms. Untreated infections can lead to chronic gastritis, ulcers, and higher stomach cancer risk.
● Dietary Triggers: Foods and drinks like spicy dishes, alcohol, and carbonated beverages can irritate the stomach lining, worsening acid reflux, gastritis, and indigestion. Spicy foods may inflame the stomach, while alcohol and carbonated drinks increase acid production, heightening discomfort.
● Underlying Health Conditions (Ulcers and GERD): Gastric pain can stem from peptic ulcer disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Peptic ulcers are sores on the stomach lining or small intestine, often caused by H. pylori or long-term nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use. GERD involves acid reflux into the esophagus, potentially causing ulcers, strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus. Without treatment, these conditions can lead to chronic pain and serious complications. In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health (MOH) reports 19.1% of the population experiences GERD.
● Antacids: Antacids quickly relieve mild gastric discomfort by neutralising stomach acid, making them effective for heartburn and indigestion. Popular brands in Malaysia include Maalox, Gaviscon, and Tums. These over-the-counter medications are safe for short-term use, but overuse may cause side effects like diarrhoea or constipation.
● Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs, such as Omeprazole and Esomeprazole, reduce stomach acid and are effective for issues like acid reflux, gastritis, and ulcers. They are often prescribed for chronic conditions like GERD but should be taken under medical supervision. Long-term use may lead to side effects like vitamin B12 deficiency or higher bone fracture risks. In Malaysia, PPIs are widely prescribed and available over-the-counter in lower doses.
● H2-Receptor Antagonists (H2 Blockers): H2 blockers, like Ranitidine and Famotidine, reduce stomach acid and are used for gastritis and ulcers. They’re an alternative to PPIs when those aren’t suitable. In Malaysia, H2 blockers require a prescription and are considered safe for moderate gastric issues, especially long-term.
● Antibiotics for H. pylori Infection: For gastric pain caused by Helicobacter pylori, antibiotics like Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin are prescribed with PPIs. This combination targets the bacteria, heals the stomach lining, and treats ulcers. In Malaysia, this is the standard treatment for H. pylori infections.
● Bananas: Bananas are perfect for those with gastric discomfort and are widely available in Malaysia. They contain natural antacids that neutralise stomach acid and protect the stomach lining. Their high fibre content also aids digestion and prevents constipation.
● Yogurt: Probiotic-rich yogurt is great for restoring gut health affected by gastritis or acid reflux. Unsweetened or low-fat options are gentler on the stomach. Probiotics improve digestion and reduce bloating, making yogurt a soothing choice for gastric-friendly diets.
● Oats: Oats are easy to digest and absorb excess stomach acid. Their soluble fibre forms a protective barrier in the stomach, reducing irritation. An ideal breakfast for gastritis or acid reflux, oats ease bloating and support digestive health.
● Fried Foods: Greasy, fried foods can worsen gastric issues for sensitive stomachs. Popular Malaysian dishes like nasi lemak, pisang goreng (fried bananas), and fried chicken may trigger heartburn and acid reflux due to their high fat content. Fat slows digestion and increases stomach acid, making it harder to digest. Those prone to severe gastric pain should avoid fried foods to prevent discomfort.
● Caffeine: Drinks like coffee, tea, and some sodas can aggravate gastric pain by increasing stomach acid and irritating the stomach lining, leading to acid reflux or gastritis. In Malaysia, coffee and tea are daily staples, but those with sensitive stomachs should limit their intake. Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger are soothing alternatives for digestion.
● Acidic Foods: Acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based dishes can irritate the stomach lining and trigger heartburn or acid reflux. In Malaysian cuisine, sambal, tomato gravies, and vinegar-based sauces can be problematic for sensitive stomachs. Reducing these during flare-ups can help avoid inflammation and discomfort.
Gastric symptoms don't cause heart attacks but can mimic them, causing confusion.
Acid reflux or severe gastritis often creates a burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen, similar to heart attack pain.
Heartburn, caused by stomach acid entering the esophagus, can feel like chest pain from a heart attack. Both can cause pain spreading to the throat, jaw, or arms.
Other symptoms like shortness of breath, bloating, and nausea can overlap, making it harder to tell the difference.
This shows why chest pain should always be taken seriously and checked by a doctor.
The stomach lining can develop pre-cancerous changes like atrophic gastritis.
This is a chronic condition where gland cells are significantly reduced or absent, often caused by inflammation from H. pylori infection or autoimmune damage.
Atrophic gastritis can cause complications like pernicious anaemia or, in some cases, stomach cancer.
Another condition is intestinal metaplasia, where stomach lining cells are replaced by intestinal-type cells, often linked to chronic gastritis and H. pylori.
Both conditions result in the loss of gland cells, which protect the stomach lining.
If DNA damage occurs in these cells, it can lead to dysplasia, where abnormal cell growth becomes more cancer-like. Without treatment, dysplasia can progress to stomach cancer.
Gastric health is vital to overall well-being, affecting both physical and emotional balance.
While many digestive issues can be managed with lifestyle changes and medical care, taking proactive steps is key to preventing serious conditions like gastric cancer or chronic disorders.
Prince Court Medical Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a trusted leader in gastroenterology, offering advanced facilities and experienced gastroenterologists.
Your digestive health is in your hands, but you don’t have to face it alone. Let us help you achieve better digestive health and quality of life.
Be the first in line to receive the latest updates and promotions, delivered directly to your inbox.
Please enter a valid email
Thank you for subscribing!
Please verify that you are not a robot.
