Digestive disorders are those that affect the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the organs involved in digestion such as the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas and gallbladder.
These disorders can range from mild discomfort to chronic and debilitating conditions.
Types of Digestive Disorders
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease refers to a group of disorders that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Crohn’s Disease: This condition causes inflammation anywhere along the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. The most common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and fatigue.
Ulcerative Colitis: This condition specifically affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and sores. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea (often with blood), rectal bleeding and urgency to have a bowel movement.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It is a chronic condition and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea.
Unlike IBD, IBS does not cause inflammation in the digestive tract.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Commonly known as acid reflux, GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. This can cause heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing and a sour taste in the mouth.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
They are usually caused by an infection from bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or by long-term use of certain medications. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
Gallstones
Gallstones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, an organ that stores digestive fluid called bile.
They can cause a blockage in the bile ducts and lead to symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin).
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
This reaction causes damage to the small intestine and can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and weight loss.
Takeaway
Digestive disorders can greatly impact a person’s quality of life and should not be ignored. If you are experiencing any persistent symptoms related to your digestive health, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress levels, and staying physically active can also help prevent or manage digestive disorders. The gut plays a crucial role in our overall health, so let’s give it the care and attention it deserves.
If you are looking for a gastroenterology doctor, make sure to contact us today!Digestive disorders are those that affect the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the organs involved in digestion such as the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas and gallbladder.
These disorders can range from mild discomfort to chronic and debilitating conditions.