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Types of Digestive Problems

Digestion is a complicated process in which various problems can arise. Some problems can be overcome with lifestyle, diet and over-the-counter medications, while some require medical assistance or surgery. With so many remedies for digestive complications available, it is clear this is a wide-spread problem that affects many people to some degree. Some digestive issues such as Crohn's Diease and Ulcerative Colitis can be so severe they drastically change lifestyle and can even lead to death.

  1. Digestive Tract

    • The digestive tract begins in your mouth where your teeth breakdown the food with the help of saliva. The food travels down the esophagus to the stomach where it is further broken down by stomach acids. The next stop is the small intestine where it is further broken down by bile from the liver and enzymes from the pancreas. This is also where most nutrient absorption takes place. Next is the large intestine, where water is absorbed before the food's final stop the rectum.

    Symptoms

    • The most common symptom is stomach or abdominal pain, which is rather vague and indicative of several problems. Also common are persistent diarrhea and nausea. These can all be mild and intermittent to moderate and almost a daily problem. When symptoms such as weight loss, bloody stool, vomiting or severe pain are present, medical attention should be sought immediately.

    Most Common

    • It is estimated that up to 15 percent of Americans suffer from acid reflux, a portion of whom suffer during pregnancy if the growing baby crowds the stomach. Gall stones, a blockage of bile duct, is the cause of one of the most common surgeries in the country. Irritable Bowel Disease is a blanket term for many conditions that present similarly, such as Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. These disorders involve the immune system attacking the GI tract causing chronic pain and diarrhea. Lactose intolerance and constipation are also extremely common.

    Treatment

    • For issues such as acid reflux and peptic ulcers, there is an array of over-the-counter products to ease the stomach discomfort and aid in the healing of the stomach lining. Similarly, numerous products are available for the prevention of lactose intolerance and constipation. More complicated issues such as IBD and gall stones require the care of a physician, possibly surgery, antibiotics and other prescription drugs.

    Prevention

    • Many conditions can be prevented from flaring up with good management. IBD typically responds well to a strictly regulated diet. Similarly, lactose intolerance symptoms can be averted by avoiding dairy products or taking an enzyme prior to eating. Stress management has been shown to greatly improve the comfort of people with ulcers and acid reflux.

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