Its rhythmic, food-churning contractions occur about every 20 seconds. The lining of the stomach also releases strong gastric juices that help break down food. Fortunately, the stomach lining also releases a mucus that usually protects the stomach wall against the bite of this high-power acid. Burn One of the biggest complaints among women over age 30 is a condition called dyspepsia, says Dr. Hamilton. This is a condition in which, for reasons not yet known, the stomach doesn't empty properly.
Women complain of an uncomfortable fullness right after eating a normal-size meal.
Other symptoms may include burping, bloating and nausea. Dyspepsia usually goes away if you take an antacid. It used to be that stress got the rap as an ulcer inducer. The bacteria itself doesn't cause the ulcer, says David Peura, M.D., associate professor of medicine and acting chief of gastroenterology at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. Its presence can make the stomach more susceptible to stomach acid, however.