Eight Kinds of Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastrointestinal disease concerns the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, a series of hollow organs running from the mouth to the anus. This ailment can either be functional or structural, affecting organs like the mouth, stomach, esophagus, small and large intestines, and the anus. If you urgently need gastrointestinal surgery in Sebring, you will find the best surgeon at Florida Lakes Surgical. Below are some common gastrointestinal disorders and how they impact the body:

1. Celiac disease

This autoimmune disease occurs when the small intestine is overly sensitive to gluten, such that the person’s immune system attacks villi of the small intestine. These projections are responsible for nutrient absorption. Celiac disease can lead to stunted growth in children and interfere with bowel movements.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The simpler term for GERD is heartburn, and it happens when the lower esophageal sphincter is weakened, thus staying partially open. This defect allows the backflow of partially digested food and stomach acid back to the esophagus. An irritation that feels like an acid burn or chest pain follows when this happens.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS refers to abdominal discomfort linked to modified bowel habits. This disorder is not easy to detect, and many patients wait for up to three years to get a proper diagnosis. IBS presents differently, with some patients becoming constipated while others get diarrhea or both. Food allergies, endometriosis, and other bowel ailments could be causative factors for IBS.

4. Constipation

Experiencing difficulty passing stool every day is another sign of GI problems. 

Constipation makes the stool hard and dry, and therefore difficult to pass through the tract. Common causes of constipation include consuming food without fiber, dehydration, prescriptions like antidepressants, and pregnancy.

5. Malabsorption syndromes

This term encompasses various conditions where the small intestine cannot absorb nutrients like fats, vitamins, proteins, and minerals. Malabsorption syndrome can result from gallbladder ailments, extended antibiotics, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, congenital disabilities, etc. Managing this disorder requires addressing the causative factors so the small intestine can function normally again.

6. Diarrhea

Someone with diarrhea has frequent and watery stools, and they may also experience abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Diarrhea can happen because of noroviruses, bacteria like salmonella, food intolerance, and specific prescriptions.

7. Lactose intolerance

There is a population that cannot produce enough lactase enzymes to aid the digestion of lactose. This kind of sugar is common in milk obtained from sheep, goats, and cows. Patients with lactose intolerance are advised to switch to healthier options like lactose-free milk or oat milk.

8. Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)

Peptic ulcer disease is a catch-all term for gastric and duodenal ulcers, which occur in the stomach lining or the small intestine. PUD can result from the misuse of anti-inflammatory prescriptions like diclofenac, aspirin, too much stomach acid, and smoking. The pain of duodenal ulcers subsides after meals, whereas the pain of gastric ulcers worsens after meals.

The above GI disorders can disappear with proper treatment, but sometimes, the damage is so severe that you require advanced interventions like surgery. If you have tried other treatment options to no avail, book a consultation with your GI specialist at Florida Lakes Surgical today.

Daisey Bell

I am Daisy Bell and a pro-level blogger with years of experience in writing for multiple industries. I have extensive knowledge of Food, Fitness, Healthcare, business, fashion, and many other popular niches. I have post graduated in arts and have keen interest in traveling.