Many people get an upset stomach, belly pain, heartburn, or other digestive problems once in a while. But some symptoms should be checked by a doctor. They could be signs of serious medical issues or lead to bigger problems if left untreated.
It’s a good idea to see your doctor if you have:
- Heartburn that won’t go away or gets worse, or needs more than several weeks of medication for relief.
- Heartburn that makes you throw up frequently; the stomach acid that comes up to your throat can damage your esophagus.
- Throwing up blood
- A feeling that food is caught in your chest or throat
- A feeling of fullness
- Belly pain that is unusual or persistent
- Unexplained weight loss of 10 or more pounds in less than a year; this can be caused by Crohn’s disease or another condition.
- Pain when swallowing or trouble swallowing; this might be a sign of damage to your esophagus.
- Stools that are bloody or black; this could be an ulcer, hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis), or cancer, among other causes.
- Persistent hoarseness or a sore throat
- Diarrhea that won’t stop
- Chronic constipation, meaning two or fewer bowel movements a week
Other reasons to visit your doctor include if your symptoms get worse or if you have new ones, or if your problems happen more often.
