K20-K31: Diseases of oesophagus, stomach and duodenum

Diseases of the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum encompass a variety of conditions impacting the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. These illnesses might include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus causing heartburn, or gastric ulcers, which are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or upper part of the small intestine. Other diseases might involve inflammation or infection, such as gastritis or oesophagitis, or structural problems like a hiatal hernia, where a part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm. These conditions often present with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and difficulty swallowing. Factors contributing to these diseases can range from bacterial infection and chronic use of certain medications to lifestyle factors like diet, smoking, and stress. Progression and severity of these illnesses can vary widely and they have the potential to deeply impact the digestive system.