Stomach issues related to watermelon consumption: Recognizing symptoms, identifying causes, and seeking appropriate treatment
Watermelon stomach, also known as Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia (GAVE), is a rare condition that affects the stomach lining, making blood vessels fragile and prone to bleeding. This condition is responsible for about 4% of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
People experiencing watermelon stomach may exhibit symptoms such as iron deficiency anemia, fatigue, vomiting blood, blood in stools, abdominal pain, nausea, chronic blood loss, and internal bleeding. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications.
Fortunately, treatment for watermelon stomach is available, and managing the condition is possible. The primary focus of treatment is controlling bleeding and managing anemia caused by dilated small blood vessels in the stomach lining.
Common treatments for watermelon stomach include endoscopic therapies, medications, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.
Endoscopic therapies are the most common approach for treating watermelon stomach. The gold standard for this treatment is argon plasma coagulation (APC), in which ignited argon gas is used to burn and seal bleeding blood vessels. Other endoscopic options include laser therapy or electrocautery.
In addition to endoscopic treatments, medications like iron supplements to treat anemia caused by chronic bleeding are often prescribed. Less commonly, therapies such as hormonal treatment or octreotide may be attempted.
In severe or refractory cases, surgical interventions such as antrectomy (removal of the antrum part of the stomach) can be considered.
For those who do not respond to medicinal or endoscopic treatments, surgery may be necessary. This potentially involves removing affected parts of the stomach as the only reliable way to cure watermelon stomach and eliminate the need for blood transfusions.
Newer treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), endoscopic band ligation (EBL), and Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser coagulation, are showing promise in improving hemoglobin levels and reducing the need for blood transfusions.
However, it's important to note that watermelon stomach often recurs after treatment, necessitating restarting the treatment. People with watermelon stomach should speak with their doctor to determine the best course of action for managing the condition.
The causes of watermelon stomach are not fully understood, but potential factors include achlorhydria, hypergastrinemia, low levels of pepsinogen, liver failure, and certain autoimmune conditions.
If you have symptoms of watermelon stomach or iron deficiency anemia, it's crucial to consult a doctor. These symptoms may include yellow or pale skin, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness, rapid heartbeat, pounding or "whooshing" in the ears, headaches, craving ice or clay, smooth or sore tongue, brittle nails, hair loss, or signs of anemia like weakness, shortness of breath, or fatigue.
In conclusion, watermelon stomach is a manageable condition, and various treatment options are available. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for preventing complications and improving the quality of life for those affected by this rare vascular condition.
- Watermelon stomach, a digestive problem, can lead to chronic diseases such as iron deficiency anemia and internal bleeding, making it important for patients to consult a medical professional if they exhibit symptoms like abdominal pain, blood in stools, or fatigue.
- Endoscopic therapies like argon plasma coagulation (APC) or laser therapy are commonly used to treat watermelon stomach, sealing the bleeding blood vessels and managing anemia caused by the condition.
- In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, surgical interventions, such as antrectomy or removing affected parts of the stomach, may be necessary to cure watermelon stomach.
- Other digestive problems and medical-conditions, such as achlorhydria, hypergastrinemia, or certain autoimmune conditions, are potential contributors to the onset of watermelon stomach, making it an important topic of ongoing scientific research in health-and-wellness.
