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Something's up -

When it comes to stomach issues, there are a number of symptoms we can experience. From cramping to vomiting, there are many ways our bodies tell us something’s wrong.

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The GI tract -

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract consists of the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Working with the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, these organs absorb nutrients and expel waste.

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Nothing serious -

When something goes wrong with this process, there are a variety of symptoms one can experience. Much of the time these issues pass without complication.

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Introducing digestive disorders -

Sometimes, however, stomach issues are actually the result of a digestive disorder. There are a number of different digestive disorders, some more common than others.

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Organic vs. functional -

The different digestive disorders can be split into two categories: organic GI disorders and functional GI disorders.

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Organic GI disorders -

Organic GI disorders occur when there is a structural problem in the digestive system that prevents it from working properly.

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Functional GI disorders -

Functional GI disorders occur when everything about the structure of the GI tract seems to be in order, but it still does not function properly.

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Identifying the symptoms -

Whether organic or functional, knowing the symptoms of the digestive disorder can help people identify it and seek relevant treatment.

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IBS -

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the more common digestive disorders. The main symptom is abdominal pain, but sufferers can also experience diarrhea, constipation, or both.

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IBS -

There are a number of factors that contribute to IBS and there are several treatments. People may need to make dietary changes, learn to reduce stress, and/or address underlying conditions.

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IBS -

People with IBS should contact a doctor if they experience severe pain, or their other IBS symptoms suddenly worsen, change, or affect their daily functioning or quality of life.

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SIBO -

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when bacteria migrate from the large to small intestine. It can cause bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.

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SIBO -

People with SIBO may be prescribed antibiotics, but they may also need to take other medications to help with their digestion and address the underlying cause.

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SIBO -

People with SIBO symptoms should contact their doctor immediately. People with a previous SIBO diagnosis should do so if their symptoms suddenly worsen or treatment no longer works.

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GERD -

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be diagnosed when a person has frequent acid reflux. It can cause esophagitis, which is irritation or inflammation of the esophagus.

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GERD -

Treatment for GERD may include making dietary changes, quitting smoking, taking medicines to manage the symptoms, or receiving treatment to address the underlying cause.

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GERD -

People with GERD should contact a doctor if they experience a worsening or increase of symptoms, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or vomiting as a result of GERD.

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Gallstones -

Gallstones are small stones that form in the gallbladder. If they form in front of an opening, they can cause symptoms including persistent pain below the right ribs, jaundice, and high temperature.

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Gallstones -

Treatment for gallstones can involve the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Alternatively, the doctor may remove the stones from the bile duct.

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Gallstones -

Gallstones sometimes do not cause symptoms, but they can cause serious complications. See a doctor if you experience abdominal pain that lasts longer than eight hours, jaundice, or a high temperature and chills.

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Celiac disease -

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own intestinal lining if the sufferer consumes gluten. Symptoms include long-term diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

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Celiac disease -

The main treatment for celiac disease is following a gluten-free diet. People experiencing recurring symptoms should always contact a doctor for assessment.

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Celiac disease -

A person who was previously diagnosed with celiac disease should contact their doctor if symptoms suddenly return or worsen, or if they experience unexplained fatigue.

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Crohn's disease -

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes chronic inflammation of the GI tract and produces symptoms such as chronic diarrhea and unexplained weight loss.

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Crohn's disease -

People who suffer from Crohn’s disease often need to take medication to reduce the inflammation. They may also require surgery.

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Crohn's disease -

Crohn’s disease is a serious medical condition that requires professional attention. People who experience symptoms should always contact a doctor.

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UC -

And finally there’s ulcerative colitis (UC), another type of IBD that causes inflammation in the rectum and large intestine. Symptoms include long-term diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, and abdominal pain.

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UC -

Treatment may involve dietary changes, medication, and/or surgery. The earlier UC is treated, the better the long-term outlook.

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UC -

Individuals without an existing diagnosis should contact a doctor immediately if they experience symptoms. Sufferers with an existing diagnosis should do so if they experience severe or recurring flare-ups.

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All in all -

There are many different digestive disorders, each with similar symptoms, which can make them difficult to diagnose. As a general rule, if you notice symptoms out of the ordinary for you, it is a good idea to contact a doctor.

Sources: (Medical News Today)

See also: Binge eating disorder—what it is, and how to treat it

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