Digestive problems can be an uncomfortable situation. Whether it is an ulcer or food intolerance, you want to be sure to get the proper treatment. Luckily, there are some common causes for digestive disorders. Here are a few of them.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition that causes stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. This acid can cause sore throat, coughing, bloating, and regurgitation. It is also associated with heartburn.
In most cases, GERD will not cause serious complications, although it can lead to Barrett’s esophagus. If left untreated, GERD can cause ulcers and strictures.
Most people with GERD self-medicate with proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). These medications have been linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including stroke, as well as bone fracture.
Peptic ulcer disease
Peptic ulcer disease is an inflammatory condition that causes painful sores in the digestive tract. These sores can vary in size, and they can be caused by a number of different things. Some ulcers heal on their own, but others require treatment.
Most ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori. The bacteria live in the mucous layer of the stomach. They cause pain and inflammation when they come into contact with the stomach’s protective layer.
Symptoms include dull or burning pain in the belly, back, or sides of the abdomen. Sometimes, people with peptic ulcer disease may experience a loss of appetite.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is an illness triggered by an infection of the digestive system. It usually involves diarrhea and vomiting. If it is left untreated, it can become life-threatening. This is particularly true for children and the elderly. Symptoms of gastroenteritis can last for several days.
In addition to diarrhea, a person suffering from gastroenteritis may experience a fever, abdominal pain, cramping, and nausea. If the symptoms persist, it is important to visit a health professional. Some medications can be helpful.
Helicobacter pylori
If you have digestive problems such as stomach ulcers or indigestion, it’s a good idea to learn about H. pylori, a bacteria that can cause these symptoms. It’s also one of the most common causes of stomach cancer.
Unlike many other kinds of bacteria, H. pylori stays in the body for a long time. This means that the bacteria can live in your gut for years without you even noticing. However, the germs can cause inflammation in the stomach, sores in the stomach, and gastritis.
Gallstones
Gallstones are hard pebble like masses that form in the gallblader. They may block the normal flow of bile. This leads to complications, including pain, inflammation and infection. Fortunately, gallstones can be removed through a surgical procedure known as a cholecystectomy. It is a relatively simple and noninvasive procedure. However, it is not for the faint of heart.
There are three main types of stones. The cholesterol stone is the most common and accounts for about 80 percent of all cases. Other varieties include pigment stones and the micro-stones.
IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive problem that can cause a person to have bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It can also cause constipation. The digestive tract is a large network of hollow organs.
Your stomach is connected to the small intestine, which in turn is connected to the colon. This long, twisting tube has trillions of microorganisms. These organisms are essential to digestion, but when the gut lining is damaged, pathogenic species take over.
Your pancreas produces juice with a wide array of enzymes. These enzymes help break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.
Food intolerances
Food intolerances and digestive problems are common, and can affect your health and well-being. However, unless you know what they are, you could be missing out on valuable information that could help you get the best results.
Food intolerances and digestion problems can be caused by a number of different things. One of the most common causes is an immune response to food that causes an allergic reaction. Another is an enzyme deficiency.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is another common digestive problem that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. It can be a debilitating condition. Some people suffer from more severe symptoms such as abdominal cramping and weight loss.
Stomach cancer
If you are experiencing indigestion, pain in your abdomen, and unexplained weight loss, you may have stomach cancer. Although the exact cause is unknown, research has identified many factors that increase the risk of developing this disease.
The first step in diagnosing stomach cancer is to examine your medical history. Your doctor will ask you to tell him or her about any symptoms you have. In addition, a physical exam is usually conducted to find out if you have a tumor.
