In these disorders there are no signs of disease and yet the intestinal tract still fails to work properly. A functional disorder may cause discomfort, but it is unlikely to lead to a serious disease. A doctor may prescribe medication to relieve symptoms. Because diet and stress are thought to trigger functional disorders, the same guidelines that help to keep your system running smoothly should help control the symptoms. Severe pain in the upper abdomen may mean that a gallstone has lodged in one of the tubes leading from the gallbladder.
Some gas is normally present in the digestive tract.
It is usually caused by swallowing air, stress, or eating foods such as cauliflower, brussel sprouts, brown beans, broccoli, bran, and cabbage. The body rids itself of gas by belching or passing gas. However, if gas collects in the digestive tract, it can lead to pain and bloating. A burning pain felt behind the breastbone that occurs after meals and lasts for anywhere from a few minutes to several hours is called heartburn. Heartburn can be brought on by eating spicy or rich foods such as tomato products, chocolate, fried foods, or peppermint, or by smoking cigarettes.