Feeling Tummy Trouble? Let’s Dive In!
What’s Eating at Your Inside?
When you’re holding your belly, feeling queasy, or your stomach’s practicing sulking, it’s not just your gut throwing a tantrum. It could be a fleeting viral mischief or a more serious gut drama that needs a doctor’s spotlight or a lifestyle tweak.
Remember: The Doc Is Your Best Friend
Don’t gamble on Google—always chat with your physician to find out whether it’s a hi‑jinks or something that needs medical attention.
Common Culprits (Yes, We’ve Got a List)
- Viruses – the classic U‑shaped ills that keep your stomach in a salad of cramps.
- Food Poisoning – when your salad goes rogue.
- Indigestion – the culprit that makes your stomach feel like a never‑ending roller‑coaster.
- Gallstones – those pesky stones that mean your gallbladder’s on a lunch break.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – the “I can’t stop worrying about the bowels” syndrome.
- Gastritis – when your stomach lining turns into a drama queen.
In Short? Keep Calm & Go to the Doctor
Because no one loves a tummy that’s throwing a fit—so let the professional assess, treat, and give you a roadmap to a happier gut.
Gastritis
What’s Going On Inside Your Stomach?
Gastritis – The Not‑So‑Private Party of Your Stomach Lining
- What is it? Imagine your stomach lining as a delicate fabric that suddenly gets a little itchy and inflamed. That’s gastritis—an inflammation that makes your tummy feel like it’s going through a rough patch.
- Who’s the troublemaker? The usual suspects are:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) – a tiny bacterium that loves a bad attitude.
- Aspirin and other NSAIDs (think of Ponstan or ibuprofen) – great for pain but bad for the lining.
- Alcohol – the party crasher that overdoes it.
- Signal the alarm – you’ll know stomach trouble when you feel one of these:
- Abdominal pain: can be a burning, gripping, or gnawing kind of pain that screams “please stop.”
- Nausea and vomiting – when your stomach tries to empty out the misery.
- Lack of appetite – when you can’t get your stomach to bite the food.
- Bloating, burping and belching – like your stomach has its own echo.
- Keep the bad vibes away – steer clear of foods that act like a rough crowd:
- Spicy, fatty or fried meals.
- Chilli powder, too much alcohol, and coffee.
They’re the “extra laundry” that makes the lining’s situation even worse.
- How to fix it – depends on the cause:
- H. pylori: a combo of antibiotics + acid‑suppressing meds to clear the bacterial band‑wagon.
- Aspirin/NSAIDs or alcohol: mostly acid suppressors to calm the irritation.
And if you can, ditch the culprit – quit the booze or stop the offending medication. The less “weird sauce” you swirl, the smoother the healing.
Peptic ulcer
Peptic Ulcers: What’s the Deal?
Ever been hit with that nasty stomach ache that feels like a tiny drill spinning right in your belly? That’s probably a peptic ulcer. These “stomachs’ rebels” pop up in the stomach lining, the lower part of the esophagus, or the first stretch of your small intestine—
Why Do They Form?
- Inflammation from H. pylori – a bacterial culprit that loves to rub its nose in your gut.
- Aspirin & NSAIDs – those painkillers you rely on can also sitiriously complain by scrubbing your stomach lining.
What Do They Feel Like?
Key symptoms:
- Upper abdominal discomfort – feels like a tingly nudge.
- The crunch of pain or swelling that leaves you gasping for air.
- Weight loss – when you’re not feeling hungry, you’re losing more than just calories.
- Loss of appetite, nausea – it’s like your stomach has decided to “nope” on food.
- Dark or bloody stools – a symptom that says, “listen up!”
- Vomiting – so dramatic that you might joke it’s the stomach’s way of expressing frustration.
Get It Healed – Avoid the Drama
With the right treatment, most ulcers go on a smooth road to recovery. Don’t wait. Because if you let them linger, the universe can turn the little break into something big:
- A perforated ulcer – a hole that can create an emergency situation.
- Bleeding ulcer – heavy bleeding that might leave you seeing a stripe of red.
- Stricture formation – scar tissue can narrow your passage, making it tough for food to slide through.
In short, keep those ulcers in check, stay on your meds, and keep your gut feeling happy. Your stomach will thank you, and you’ll avoid a cookbook of gruesome complications.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
GERD: The Unwanted Back-and-Forth Party
What’s Going On Inside?
Picture the esophagus like a hallway that connects your throat to your stomach. Normally, everything flows like a gentle river. But Gastro‑oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is when that river decides to turn on its backflow and starts splashing acidic water right back up the hallway. It’s a bit like having a leak in your house: your stomach’s contents (acid, food bits, etc.) escape into the esophagus and rear‑end the lining.
When Is It Just a Normal Leak?
Many folks experience harmless reflux—think of it as a quick hiccup that never sticks around. It’s only when those acid splashes become frequent and painful that we’re dealing with an actual problem. Those with GERD usually have a whole list of uncomfortable symptoms:
- Heartburn that feels like your chest is on fire
- Chest pain or that odd “anyone else have a heart attack?” sensation
- Regurgitation – the yabbles of food you didn’t intend to swallow again
- Feeling nauseous or throwing up because the stomach’s calling the police on the esophagus
- Swallowing that feels like eating a gristle party
- Hoarse voice and sore throat, basically turning your voice into a gravel sandpaper
- Chronic cough that’s less “break the news” and more “call a doctor”
Why Does It Happen?
Imagine you have a gate at the bottom of your esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). When it’s tight, it stops the acid from sliding back up. In GERD, the gate is more like a swing that’s too easy to open or doesn’t seal tightly. What triggers it?
- Eating too much – giving the stomach a “feel‑the‑pressure” buffet
- Lifting a lot of stress on the stomach from obesity, pregnancy, or even a hunch
- Smoking – it’s like loosening the bolt on the gate
- Alcohol and caffeine – the rebellious friends that break the balance
In short, a mixture of “the gate’s on vacation” and “overloaded pressure” creates a perfect storm for acid to leak.
Keep the Acid at Bay
Here’s the good news: most of this can be tamed with lifestyle tweaks. Think of it as a “reset” button for your digestive system.
- Quit smoking – your gate will thank you.
- Cut back on booze and coffee – they’re the unofficial gate loosening agents.
- Eat leaner meals – less fat means less stomach pressure.
- Stomach a bit lighter if you’re carrying extra weight.
For those who are stuck in a fight with persistent symptoms, antacids and anti‑reflux meds are the usual frontline. If that still leaves you feeling like you’re in a never‑ending acid war, surgical options might be considered as a last resort. Remember, you’re not alone and your dyspeptic dialogue can be turned from a drama into a manageable, everyday situation.
Irritable bowel syndrome
What’s Going On With IBS?
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a common gut hiccup affecting about 10–20% of the Singapore crowd. Picture this: abdominal discomfort that pops up just whenever you want it—anytime you eat or somewhere in the middle of the day. The twist? It’s tied to either diarrhoea or constipation. After you finally get a bowel movement, the pain often takes a break.
Day‑time–and‑after–meal drama
- Diarrhoea‑type IBS: Often begins during the day and usually follows a meal. A rapid ride down the tunnel.
- Constipation‑type IBS: Some folks experience hard, pellet‑like stools that feel like you’re carrying a brick.
<li Mixed bag: Others swing between the rush of diarrhoea and the sluggishness of constipation, like a roller‑coaster without an end.
Why the gut feels like a drama zone?
The exact culprit behind IBS is still a mystery. The usual suspects are a previous stomach bug or bad food. Here’s the “body‑wizard” way it works:
- During the infection, the gut’s immune system lights up.
- It releases cells and proteins that make the gut nerves way too sensitive.
- Now, even normal gas or peristalsis can feel like a painful haunted house.
Stress? Let’s talk!
Feeling anxious or stressed doesn’t always spark IBS, but it sure sure makes it worse. If anxiety is the villain, the gut just gets extra dramatic.
Food Fails
Food intolerances (like lactose or gluten) often show up in IBS patients, but food allergies are not the usual cause. It’s more about how your gut reacts, not a superhero allergy attack.
Can you get a clear diagnosis?
No single test can call IBS “the official diagnosis.” Doctors usually start with:
- A solid chat about your stomach swoops and discomfort.
- Basic blood and stool tests to rule out other hiccups.
- Sometimes, more invasive things like a colonoscopy or CT scan if a doctor feels it’s needed.
What’s the Game Plan?
Most IBS sufferers get relief without long‑term meds. The focus is on:
- Eating smarter and being mindful of lifestyle.
- Dodging foods and events that trigger a gut tantrum.
Stomach Sorcery
Problems with:
- Dairy products
- Fried foods
- Indigestible sugars & beans
…and here’s the good news—certain natural allies can help:
- Ginger: a spicy pep‑up for digestion.
- Peppermint: cool, calming vibes for the gut.
- Chamomile: the latte of calm for the belly.
When the diet won’t cut it
If lifestyle tweaks aren’t doing the job, a doctor might prescribe meds to:
- Reduce loose stools
- Slow down constipation
- Relieve bloating
- Lower gut nerve sensitivity
Takeaway
Got IBS? Don’t let it grind your life. With a bit of menu magic, a dash of mindful habits, and a sprinkle of doctor‑approved meds when needed, you’ll keep the gut drama at bay and stay on track for everyday adventures.
Chronic diarrhoea
What’s Going On With Chronic Diarrhoea?
Picture yourself staring at your bathroom door every 30 minutes, and the question is “Is this normal?” For some folks, the answer is no—because their stools haven’t been in the box for more than four weeks, and they’re consistently loose.
Why It’s Not Just a Minor Fiddle
- The belly’s ticking off a 40‑minute clock instead of a 60‑minute one.
- It feels like you’re on a perpetual “stomach juggling” circus.
Singapore’s Top‑Ticket Culprit
In our sunny island, the main culprit is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It’s that cheeky condition that loves to play tricks with your gut.
Common “Side‑Drivers” You Might Not Notice
Some everyday meds are the sneaky sidekicks that stir up the situation:
- Antibiotics – They wipe out the good bacteria, messing with your digestion.
- Pain‑killers (like Ponstan) – Kan you feel that stomach rustle?
- Diabetic meds (e.g., Metformin) – A handy drug that can ghost your gut.
Bottom Line: Know Your Numbers, Watch Your Intake
If it’s happening, give your body a break and consider checking in with your healthcare hero. Your gut will thank you, and so will your wallet—less trips to the pharmacy, fewer “stay‑home” days. Happy tummy, happy life!
What’s Up With Your Gut?
Short‑lived stomach drama can happen when the belly’s hit by common gut bugs. Usually the poop fiesta ends before you hit the 4‑week mark—think of it as a brief candlelit love affair with your intestines.
But brace yourself: a handful of foes—Tuberculosis, Giardia, Amoebiasis, and Tropical Sprue—are the headline grabbers. These guys love a prolonged party, leaving you in the chronic diarrhoea club for weeks or even months.
Food: The Side‑Chef or the Villain?
- Our dear lactose intolerance can make Asians feel the chill after dairy—diarrhoea plus bloating, basically a double‑features movie.
- Even a splash of alcohol or a gulp of artificial sweetener can trigger a gut tantrum for some patients.
Who’s the Real Culprit?
It’s not just the intestines. There’s a whole cast of illness that can make you loose that pooch. Let’s break them down.
Non‑Intestinal Drama (The “Bystanders”)
- Thyroid – A swing in hormones can make your poop run at a blistering pace.
- Diabetes – Blood sugar chaos can also nail that gut slip‑stream.
- Chronic Pancreatitis – When the pancreas goes frazzled, the enzymes go on strike, and fat gets stranded. That’s bad news for digestion.
Intestinal Intruders (The “Lead Actors”)
- Coeliac – The gut lining gets skinny. The result? A toll booth for nutrients, meaning chronic diarrhoea is a frequent guest. Common in Caucasians.
- Ulcerative Colitis & Crohn’s – These guys leave fresh sores all over the gut and can pull out blood (and stubborn diarrhoea) at the same time.
Doctor’s Game Plan
If you’re stuck in the chronic diarrhoea loop, your medic will try to uncover the root. Expect:
- Blood tests – to see if hormones or sugars are waltzing off course.
- Stool tests – sniffing out hidden bacterial or parasitic parties.
- Espresso‑style exams – a gastroscopy or colonoscopy if the mystery deep‑dives into the gut.
After spotting the culprit, your treatment will go from a quick wrap‑up to a targeted podcast. Whether it’s meds, diet tweaks, surgery, or a more “tough love” approach, you’ll finally get your gut back in good spirits.
Constipation
When Your Poop Starts Feeling Like a Rocky Road
If you’re only hitting the toilet under three times a week, your stools look like tiny stone blocks, or you’re fighting a stubborn urge to squeeze all you’ve got out, it’s a classic sign that constipation has found its way into your life.
What’s Causing the Squeeze?
- Most people with chronic constipation when it arrives, there’s no obvious disease in play.
- But some conditions like thyroid hormone insufficiency, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease can make your bowels act up.
- And let’s not forget those pesky meds—painkillers like morphine and certain antidepressants such as amitriptyline—that can add extra weight to the problem.
How the Docs Take a Peek
Your doctor might run a round of blood tests, pull stool samples, do a colonoscopy, or check the function of your anal muscles—all to figure out why the bathroom isn’t cooperating.
Fixing the Problem (And Wanting It Back Straight)
Enough with the scientific jargon—let’s get to the good part: the fixes! The first line of defense is all about changing the everyday stuff you do.
- Eat more fiber—think whole grains, veggies, and fruit to keep things moving.
- Hydrate like a plant—water is your best friend against sluggish stools.
- Move around—whether it’s a brisk walk or a quick dance-off in your living room, activity keeps the gut humming.
- Grab a natural helper—prunes are golden for a gentle but effective push.
If all those lifestyle tweaks fall short, don’t be afraid to lean on laxatives. Your doctor will guide you to the right one to get things flowing again.
Remember: a healthy bathroom routine isn’t just about convenience—it’s also a sign that your body is working symphonically. Stay tuned, stick to good habits, and your poops will thank you with fewer hard-to-push moments!
Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
What’s Up With Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
Hey there! Let’s break down the basics of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis—the two main players in the IBD world.
Difference Between the Two:
- Ulcerative colitis: All the ulcers stay in the large intestine. Think of it as a one‑corner fight.
- Crohn’s disease: The ulcers roam the entire gut, from the mouth to the anus. The most common spots? The large intestine and the lower small intestine.
Common Symptoms (The “I’m Feeling Bad” Checklist)
- Abdominal pain that feels like a bad joke.
- Frequent diarrhea that doesn’t let’s you finish a meal.
- Bloody stools—no one wants that.
- Fever that turns you into a walking furnace.
- Flaunting fatigue and a noticeable weight loss.
- Malnutrition—think of it as the gut’s “no cookie” policy.
- Extra‑intestinal drama (skin rashes, eye redness, joint pain, even liver issues).
What’s Behind It? A Mystery
The exact cause of IBD is still a medical puzzle. The leading theory says:
- An environmental trigger sets the gut’s immune system ablaze.
- If you’ve got the right genetic recipe, the inflammation goes out of control, leading to ulcers.
Can You Beat It?
While there’s no magical cure (IBD is a lifelong affair), you can control the chaos and lead a pretty normal life.
- Treatments can tame the same as a well‑tuned orchestra.
- Go from “broken” to “stable” and keep your day-to-day life rocking.
Getting It Checked
Want to know if it’s you? A gastro‑doctor will run a diagnostic lineup:
- Blood tests—think of them as the body’s status report.
- Stool tests—to catch any trouble inside.
- Colonoscopy—letting doctors peek inside the gut.
- CT scans or MRI—because we love a good picture.
Feeling Off?
If you’re getting any of these gut wobbles, talk to a gastroenterologist. Your tummy deserves the best care.
Reviewed By
Dr. Ling Khoon Lin, gastroenterologist at Mount Elizabeth Hospital
References
- Charles Patrick Davis, C.P.M.D., Ph.D. – Gastritis Symptoms, Pain, Home Remedies, and Cure.
- Higuera, V. – Peptic Ulcer (2017).
- Acid Reflux Symptoms – Various sources (n.d.).
- Herndon, J. & Kinman, T. – Everything You Want to Know About IBS (n.d.).
- Higuera, V. – Chronic Diarrhea (2017).
- Fulghum, Bruce, D. Ph.D. – Chronic Constipation: Facts vs. Myths (n.d.).
- “Crohn’s disease” – Mayo Clinic (n.d.).
