The New Year often brings celebrations, indulgent foods, and a break from routine. While it’s a time for joy and reflection, it can also lead to digestive discomfort. If you’re experiencing stomach pain after the festivities, you’re not alone. The combination of overeating, consuming rich or spicy foods, alcohol, and stress can wreak havoc on your digestive system.

But how do you know if your stomach pain is simply due to acidity or something more serious like a pancreas issue? At Dr. Gastro, a trusted gastroenterologist in Ahmedabad, we understand that stomach pain can be caused by a variety of factors. In this blog, we’ll help you distinguish between acidity and a potential pancreas problem, so you can take the right steps toward relief and recovery.

Understanding Acidity: A Common Culprit

Acidity (or acid reflux) occurs when the stomach’s acidic contents flow back into the esophagus. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a valve at the bottom of the esophagus, fails to close properly. It is one of the most common causes of stomach pain, especially after heavy meals or indulgence in acidic or spicy foods.

Symptoms of Acidity:

• Burning sensation in the chest or upper stomach (heartburn)
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness
• Regurgitation of sour or bitter liquid into the throat or mouth
• Belching or frequent burping
• Nausea after meals
• Pain or discomfort in the stomach or chest that may get worse after eating

What Causes Acidity?

• Overeating: Large, heavy meals stretch the stomach, increasing acid production.
• Spicy, oily foods: These can irritate the stomach lining, triggering acid reflux.
• Alcohol and caffeine: These can relax the LES and increase stomach acid production.
• Stress: Increased anxiety or stress can worsen symptoms.
• Lying down after meals: This can allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

How to Manage Acidity:

• Antacids: Over-the-counter medications like Tums, Gaviscon, or Maalox can help neutralize stomach acid.
• Dietary adjustments: Avoid acidic foods (like citrus, tomatoes), spicy foods, and alcohol. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals.
• Elevate your head: If you experience acidity at night, try sleeping with your head elevated to prevent acid reflux.

 

 

When Stomach Pain Could Indicate a Pancreas Issue

The pancreas is a crucial organ located behind the stomach, and its primary role is to aid in digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. When the pancreas becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to pancreatitis, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis:

• Severe, sudden abdominal pain: The pain is usually felt in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back. It may feel like a constant, dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain.
• Pain after eating: Unlike acidity, which often occurs after eating certain foods, pancreas-related pain tends to worsen after eating, especially fatty foods.
• Nausea and vomiting: You may feel extremely nauseous and even throw up, which can worsen the discomfort.
• Bloating: The abdomen may feel bloated, and you may experience difficulty digesting food.
• Fever: A mild fever can occur along with other symptoms, indicating inflammation or infection.
• Unexplained weight loss: This can occur over time if the pancreas isn’t functioning properly, especially in chronic pancreatitis.

What Causes Pancreatitis?

• Alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking, especially over the holidays, can trigger an acute pancreatitis attack.
• Gallstones: These can block the bile duct, causing inflammation in the pancreas.
• High-fat diet: A diet high in fat, especially over time, can increase the risk of pancreatitis.
• Trauma or injury: Any trauma to the abdomen can affect the pancreas, leading to inflammation.
• Chronic conditions: Certain medical conditions like cystic fibrosis, high cholesterol, or high triglycerides can increase the risk of pancreatitis.

How to Manage Pancreatitis:

• Immediate medical attention: If you suspect pancreatitis, seek medical help immediately. It’s a medical emergency and requires a doctor’s intervention.
• Hospitalization: In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for intravenous fluids, medications, and other treatments.
• Avoid alcohol: If pancreatitis is caused by alcohol consumption, stopping drinking is crucial for recovery.
• Dietary changes: A low-fat diet is recommended to reduce stress on the pancreas.

How to Tell the Difference Between Acidity and Pancreas Issues

Here are some key differences between acidity and a potential pancreas issue:

Acidity	Pancreatitis (Pancreas Issue)
Occurs after eating spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.	Pain usually worsens after eating, especially fatty foods.
Mild to moderate pain, typically relieved by antacids.	Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t go away easily.
Usually accompanied by heartburn, belching, and regurgitation.	Associated with nausea, vomiting, fever, and bloating.
Common and generally less serious.	Medical emergency, requires immediate attention.
Relieved by dietary changes and medications.	May require hospitalization and medical intervention.

 

 

When to See a Doctor

If you experience severe or persistent stomach pain, especially after eating, it’s important to seek professional help. Here’s when you should contact Dr. Gastro:

• Severe, radiating pain in the upper abdomen, especially if it feels sharp and persistent.
• Pain after eating fatty foods that doesn’t subside with rest or antacids.
• Nausea, vomiting, or fever along with abdominal pain.
• If you feel lightheaded or have trouble breathing, seek emergency care immediately.

For those experiencing regular acidity symptoms that don’t improve with lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medication, it’s also a good idea to consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation.

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Stomach Pain

Whether it’s due to acidity or a more serious pancreas issue, stomach pain after the holidays shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re dealing with persistent discomfort, it’s crucial to identify the root cause so you can get the right treatment. At Dr. Gastro, we provide expert care and diagnosis for all your gastrointestinal concerns, from acidity to pancreatitis.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this blog, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Gastro for a consultation. We’ll help you get the relief you need and ensure your digestive health is back on track.