What are digesting problems?
Digesting problems can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
Some common digesting problems include:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.
- Peptic ulcers: Sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A condition that causes abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A group of conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Celiac disease: An autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is consumed.
- Diverticular disease: A condition in which small pouches form in the colon and can become infected or inflamed.
- Gallstones: Hardened deposits of bile that can form in the gallbladder and block the flow of bile.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, a gland that helps digest food and regulate blood sugar.
If you are experiencing any digesting problems, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. Digesting problems can often be managed with diet changes, medications, or lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.