Digestive diseases Treatment and Prevention

People may experience digestive problems for reasons ranging from eating habits to digestive disorders.  

Digestive diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, gastroesophageal reflux, gallstones, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.  Discover treatment and prevention. By NazihPharnacy

In this article: 

1. Digestive system
2. What are functional digestive diseases ? 
3. What are structural digestive diseases ? 
4. Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS )
5. Constipation
6. SIBO 
7. Hemorrhoids
8. Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
9. Gallstones
10. Celiac disease
11. Crohn's disease
12. Ulcerative colitis (UC) 
13. Less common digestive disorders
14. Prevention of digestive diseases  
15. Diagnosing Digestive Disorders
16. Summary

The digestive system plays the role of the main engine and energy donor to all organs and systems of the body.

Digestive system

The gastrointestinal (GI) system consists of the:

• Mouth
• Esophagus
• Stomach 
• Intestines
• Liver 
• Pancreas
• Gallbladder
• Appendix
• Rectum

These organs work together, side by side, to:

• Absorb nutrients

• Produce the energy needed for the body to function

• Expel waste

Disturbances in this process can cause a range of common symptoms such as: 

• Cramps

• Abdomibal pain

• Vomiting

• Discolouration of stool

Many of these problems may pass over time and pose only a small risk of complications, Others may be acute or chronic. 

Symptoms of digestive diseases may be similar to colorectal cancer, so seeing a doctor will determine the condition

Proper knowledge of the signs and symptoms of common digestive disorders can help people recognize them and seek specialist help.

What are digestive diseases?  

The effect of gastrointestinal diseases extends from the mouth to the anus.  

There are two types of gastrointestinal diseases that are most common, including functional diseases and structural diseases.  

What are functional digestive diseases?

Functional diseases are those in which the digestive tract appears normal when examined, but the movement is not correct.  

The most common problems affecting the digestive system are: 

• Constipation 

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Bloating 

• Gases 

There are many factors that can disturb the digestive system and its normal movement, including: 

• Not doing enough physical activities

• Eating a low-fiber diet

• Uncontrolled high cholesterol

• Changing lifestyle due to change in place or climate

• Excessive intake of dairy products

• Excessive intake of energy drinks

• Stress

• Diabetes

• Resisting the urge to defecate, possibly due to hemorrhoids

• Eating disorders

• Excessive use of anti-diarrheal medications, which over time leads to weakening of bowel movements

• Calcium deficiency in blood

• Always take antacid medications that contain calcium or aluminum 

• Magnesium deficiency in blood

• Pregnancy, especially in the last months 

• Potassium deficiency

• Taking some types of medications, such as antidepressants, iron pills, and strong painkillers such as narcotics

Some people may suffer from increased sensitivity in the digestive organs and this condition is called visceral hypersensitivity.  

Hormone therapy for certain conditions such as menopause in women may increase the potential effects of digestive diseases.

This can leave them feeling almost constant pain or discomfort.  

What are structural diseases of the digestive system?  

Structural gastrointestinal diseases are those in which the intestines appear abnormal on examination and do not move normally.  

Some cases may require surgical intervention to remove the structural deformity.   

Structural gastrointestinal diseases include:

• Stenosis

• Hemorrhoids

• Diverticular disease

• Colon polyps

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Colorectal cancer

This is one of the most common diseases of this type and may require a gastrointestinal surgeon.  

Common Digestive Diseases

There are many diseases that affect the digestive system and some of the most common conditions they treat include: 

• Bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

• Constipation

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Hemorrhoids

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Celiac disease

• Gallstones

• Crohn's disease

• Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Less common gastrointestinal disorders include:

• Hirschsprung's disease

• Ménitier's disease

• Unable to relax

Let's delve into the details of some common diseases. 

Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS )

The type of irritable bowel syndrome is determined based on diarrhea, constipation, or both.  

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include:

• Abdominal pain

• Excess gas

• Diarrhea, constipation, or both

• Incomplete bowel movement

• Rapit heartbeat and tightness in the chest

• Bloating

• White mucus in stool

• Pain and psychological disorders with or before the menstrual cycle

People with irritable bowel syndrome may experience traumatic life events or suffer from a mental health condition.  

Irritable bowel syndrome does not cause sexual dysfunction, but in some cases it affects sexual intercourse.  

Severe pain may occur during intercourse for women in particular, because the entire pelvic area and its muscles are irritated, which makes women afraid of intercourse and may lead to problems.

Furthermore, IBS can develop as a result of an infection that leads to bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.  

Managing irritable bowel syndrome (1) for people with irritable bowel syndrome is important in treatment. They may need to: 

• Stay away from anything annoying

• Do physical activities regularly, such as walking, jumping, and running

• Make dietary changes

• Get quality rest and sleep

• Learn how to reduce stress

• Avoid dehydration, and moisturize well throughout the day

• Follow a happy lifestyle

People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome should consult a specialist doctor if other irritable bowel syndrome symptoms worsen or affect the person's daily functioning. 

Constipation

Constipation (2) is a functional problem that makes it difficult for you to defecate, and stools are infrequent (less than three times a week). 

Constipation is associated with insufficient fiber in the diet, or disruption of the diet routine. 

When constipation is prolonged, it causes:

• Straining during bowel movements

• Small, hard stools 

• Anal problems such as fissures or hemorrhoids

Constipation can be treated at home by:

• Exercising regularly, including jumping

• Increase the amount of fiber and water in the diet

• Not resisting the urge to defecate

If the above treatment methods do not work, laxatives may be helpful.  Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions. 

Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

Small intestine bacterial overgrowth occurs when bacteria move from the large intestine to the small intestine. 

Researchers have identified the following factors that may contribute to SIBO: 

• Decreased bowel motility

• An imbalance in a person’s microbiome between harmful and beneficial species

• Low stomach acid levels

• Structural differences in the digestive system, such as small intestine diverticula, fistulas, and a short colon

• Excessive consumption of alcohol and energy drinks leads to imbalance and damage to the microbiome

Types of bacteria that cause SIBO(3): 

• Hydrogen-producing bacteria, which are most associated with diarrhea

• Methane-producing bacteria, which are most associated with constipation

Symptoms of SIBO include: 

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Bloating  

• Unexplained vitamin deficiency, especially vitamin B12 deficiency

• Rarely, malabsorption

Treatment for bacterial overgrowth in the intestine includes: 

• Taking antibiotics Such as rifaximin or neomycin

• Taking medications to help with digestion

• Change in lifestyle 

People with a previous diagnosis of SIBO contact a health care professional to determine the appropriate treatment plan. 

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids(4) are varicose veins in the anal canal.  This is a structural disease.  

Any type of straining that increases pressure on your abdomen or lower extremities can cause swelling and inflammation of the anal and rectal veins.  

The most common reasons for the occurrence and development of hemorrhoids include: 

• Pelvic pressure due to weight gain.  

• Pelvic pressure due to pregnancy, especially the last months. 

• Forced stool thrust due to constipation.  

• Straining of lifting heavy objects or weightlifting players.

There are two types of hemorrhoids: 

• Internal hemorrhoids, which are blood vessels located inside the anus.  As a result of straining, it becomes irritated and begins to bleed.  Eventually, internal hemorrhoids can prolapse enough to prolapse outside the anus.  

• External hemorrhoids are veins located just under the skin on the outside of the anus. After being strained, external hemorrhoidal veins burst and blood clots form under the skin.  This very painful condition is called a "pile."

Treatment of hemorrhoids depends on the type and includes: 

• Changing lifestyle by improving bowel habits, such as avoiding constipation, not straining during bowel movements, and defecating when you have the urge.  

• Surgery: Surgery may only be necessary for a small number of people with very large, painful, persistent hemorrhoids.  

Changing the daily diet helps prevent hemorrhoids and avoid reaching an advanced, painful stage for affected people. 

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

Acid reflux occurs when a person's stomach contents back up into the esophagus.  

Repeated reflux indicates that the person suffers from gastroesophageal reflux, which is a semi-chronic condition that may lead to inflammation of the esophagus.  

Common symptoms(5) of esophageal reflux disease associated with esophagitis include: 

• Heartburn

• Nausea

• Acid reflux

• Pain while swallowing

• Chest pain

Risk factors for esophageal reflux disease can include: 

• Having a hiatal hernia 

• Obesity and weight gain 

• Take some medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and strong pain relievers

• Smoking and inhaling passive smoke 

• Pregnant women

Treatment for esophageal reflux includes:

• Making dietary changes to foods that relieve acidity

• Quit Smoking

• Take medications that relieve and treat acidity and its causes 

If you achieve results with normal home treatment and the following complications occur: 

• Difficulty swallowing  

• Vomiting due to acidity

• Weight loss

You can see a healthcare practitioner to get good results.  

Gallstones

Gallstones(6) are small stones that form in the gallbladder.  

The gallbladder is a small sac that stores bile that the body uses during digestion.  

Symptoms of gallstones may include: 

• Persistent pain below the ribs, on the right side of the body

• The infected person's temperature rises

• Jaundice

• Nausea and vomiting

• Excessive sweating

Treatment for gallstones may include surgical removal of the gallbladder or a procedure in which a health care professional removes gallstones from the bile duct by suctioning them with an endoscopic device.  

People should seek medical care if they experience any of the above symptoms more than 2-3 times a week over weeks or months. 

Celiac disease

Celiac disease(7) is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack the lining of the intestine if a person eats foods containing gluten (different from gluten sensitivity). 

Digestive diseases, symptoms, celiac disease, treatment, prevention. Designed by NazihPharmacy

Celiac disease is a serious condition that symptoms include: 

• Constipation

• Diarrhea over time

• Stools with a foul odor and unusual colour

• Swelling

• Gases

• Stomach ache 

• Nausea and vomiting

Untreated celiac disease can lead to complications, including: 

• Softening of the bones

• Malnutrition

• Increased risk of heart desease

• Neurological disorders

• Kidney stones

• Reproduction problems 

A person suffering from celiac disease needs to avoid all foods that contain gluten(8), including:

• Any food made from grains such as wheat and barley

• Bread, beer and brewer's yeast

• Some sweets

• Cakes, pies and pasta

• French fries

• Meat and processed foods

• Sauce mixes

• Brown rice syrup 

There are some non-food items that may contain gluten, such as lipstick, lip gloss, lip balm, play dough, and some medications and nutritional supplements.  

Some foods are naturally gluten-free. Includes:

• Fruits and vegetables

• Fresh meat

• Eggs, fish and poultry 

• Unprocessed beans

• Seeds, nuts and oats 

• Tapioca and white rice 

• Most dairy products

• Grains such as buckwheat, corn, flax, quinoa, sesame and millet

People who suffer from recurring symptoms of celiac disease should contact a specialist doctor to evaluate the condition and take the necessary treatment.

Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease(9) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that often affects the small intestine.  

Common symptoms of Crohn's disease include:

• Bloody stools

• Chronic diarrhea

• Stomach pain 

• Weight loss

• Constant fatigue

Causes of Crohn's disease include: 

• Some bacteria in the digestive system

• Genetic factors

• Environmental factors

Crohn's disease is a serious condition that most likely requires medication or perhaps surgery to control seizures and avoid complications. 

Crohn's disease may lead to many complications, such as fistulas, abscesses, and ulcers in the anus.

There are several types of Crohn's disease:

• Ileocolitis, which is the most common form. 

• Granulomatous colitis of the large intestine. 

• Gastroduodenal Crohn's disease.  

• Jejunitis.

Affected individuals should seek emergency medical help if symptoms appear and become severe. 

Ulcerative colitis (UC)

Ulcerative colitis(10) is a type of intestinal infection that causes inflammation of the rectum and large intestine.

Inflammation can also spread to other parts of the intestine.  

Some symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:

• Abdominal pain 

• Long-term diarrhea

• Unexplained weight loss

• Tired

Ulcerative colitis is caused by intestinal bacteria, genetics, or environmental factors.  

Types of ulcerative colitis, including: 

• Ulcerative proctitis

• Proctitis and sigmoid colitis

• Pancreatitis that affects the entire colon

• Fulminant colitis is very rare

Treatment may include dietary changes, medications to manage inflammation and reduce symptoms, or surgery.  

Individuals who suffer from these symptoms should see a specialist doctor to determine the condition and take the necessary treatment. 

The earlier the treatment is, the better the future outlook of the affected person. 

Less common digestive disorders

Other less common digestive disorders can cause stomach and intestinal problems.  Some less common diseases, such as: 

Hirschsprung's disease

Hirschsprung's(11) disease is a condition that a person is born with, involving the body's inability to open the internal anal sphincter normally.  

Symptoms in newborns may include:

• Constipation

• Direct vomiting 

• Stomach swelling 

• Failure to pass the first bowel movement within 48 hours of birth

The only usual treatment for Hirschsprung's disease is surgery, which usually occurs shortly after birth. 

Achalasia

Achalasia(13) is a rare condition that affects adults between the ages of 30 and 60.   

This occurs when the esophagus loses the ability to push food into the stomach, and the valve at the end may fail to open for the mouth to pass. 

Symptoms of achalasia include: 

• Heartburn

• Coughing and feeling of suffocation during sleep  

• Regurgitation of food

Treatment may include medications or surgery depending on the health condition of the affected person.  

Ménitrier's disease 

Ménitrier's disease is an enlargement of the mucous membrane that lines the stomach and leads to the appearance of large gastric folds. 

Some of the symptoms that people with Ménitrier's disease may experience include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea 

• Pain in the upper middle area of ​​the stomach

Treatment includes taking appropriate medications or surgery, where part or all of the stomach is removed. 

Prevention of digestive diseases

Prevention of diseases related to the digestive system depends on the type of food and daily lifestyle. Moreover, it helps in treating many digestive diseases.  

Digestive diseases, for prevention and treatment, require healthy food rich in nutrients. Designed by Nazihpharmacy

Prevention of digestive diseases includes: 

• Eating a healthy diet with a tendency to plant foods, while reducing foods high in bad fats, and ready-made and processed meals

• Weight loss in obese people

• Eating anti-inflammatory foods to avoid infection and complications depending on the person’s condition

• Eating foods that contain vitamin D to reduce symptoms and support individuals’ immunity

• Practicing physical and sporting activities such as walking, running, and swimming daily to strengthen the muscles of the digestive system and raise the body’s immunity

• Avoid excessive consumption of soft drinks, energy drinks, and drinks containing a high percentage of sugar and artificial colorings

• Avoid fried and grilled foods that are high in bad fats

• Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol

• Eating foods rich in omega-3 has many benefits for organ health. and vitamin C to reduce digestive symptoms and diseases  

• Eating a healthy diet rich in fresh, high-fiber plant foods including whole grains such as sesame, almonds and oatmeal

• Eating fruits such as bleuberries and avocados, vegetables such as okra, spinach and healthy plant-based fat sources such as nuts

Managing the digestive system and digestive diseases depends on healthy food and physical activities to achieve normal digestion and bowel movement.

Diagnosing Digestive Disorders 

Diagnosing a digestive condition begins by performing a physical examination and asking questions about the individual's symptoms and health history.  For example: 

• Medications that a person takes

• Diet and lifestyle

• Location of pain 

• Family medical history 

Laboratory testing and diagnosis methods include: 

• Stool tests to detect inflammation and examine the bacteria present in the intestines of the infected person.  

• Blood tests to detect the presence of celiac disease, or inflammation in general.  

• Endoscopy is a common and basic method in which the doctor inserts a small camera into the esophagus to examine the upper digestive system, such as the stomach.  

• Lactulose breath tests to diagnose bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.  

• Colonoscopy where the doctor inserts a small camera into the rectum to examine the lower digestive tract.  

• Medical imaging, such as CT scan, ultrasound, and X-ray, which shows the presence of swelling or enlargement somewhere.  

A person may need more than one medical consultation to obtain an appropriate and correct diagnosis.  

Summary

There are many digestive disorders, and many of them have similar symptoms, which can make them difficult to diagnose.  

If a person notices that they have symptoms that are not normal for them, they should seek prompt medical advice.