Do you often have stomach problems? Let's learn about Gastrointestinal Diseases

We all get stomach problems all the time, don't we? Sometimes it feels like we've had a full stomach, other times it's a heartburn. Sometimes it's bloating, and other times it's constipation. Most of these get better in a day or two, but some problems can persist. So, today we're going to talk about diseases related to this amazing system that runs from our mouth to our anus, the digestive tract. Some of these are simple, but some we need to be concerned about.

What are these gastrointestinal diseases?

Simply put, this refers to any health condition that affects our digestive system. This system includes our mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, as well as the organs that help us digest food, such as the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Think of it like a long tube. If there is a problem anywhere along this tube, that is what we call a digestive disease.

We can divide these diseases into two main types:

• Acute illnesses: These start suddenly and get better within a short period of time, sometimes with treatment. For example, food poisoning caused by eating spoiled food.
• Chronic diseases: These are diseases that last for months, sometimes years, or that come and go from time to time. For example, gastritis, which many people have, is one of them.

And these diseases can be classified in another way. That is, as functional and structural diseases. Does this seem a little difficult to understand? Okay, let's see how to understand this simply.

Functional Diseases and Their Causes

In fact, we have all experienced functional disorders at some point in our lives. Constipation, gas, stomach cramps, and bloating are some of the best examples. These disrupt the normal functioning of our digestive system and cause discomfort.

What are the main reasons for this?

• Diet: Eating more processed foods and foods low in fiber.
• Lack of exercise: When physical activity decreases, intestinal function also decreases.
• Lifestyle changes: Situations like this can occur when you suddenly go on a trip or change your daily routine.
• Stress: Don't be surprised, there's a big connection between your mind and your gut. Excessive worry and stress can disrupt your gut's function.
• Controlling your bowel movements: Not going to the bathroom when you need to is a major cause of constipation.
• Certain medications: Some painkillers and iron pills can cause side effects like this.
• Hormonal changes: Women are especially prone to these types of discomfort during pregnancy and menstruation.
• Food sensitivities: Some foods may not "stick" to your body.

Structural Diseases - Areas to be careful about

Structural diseases are a bit more complicated. These usually don't improve with lifestyle changes alone, and require medical attention. They can actually be caused by internal damage, inflammation, or blockage. Hemorrhoids, colon polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are just a few examples.

What are the most common digestive system diseases among us?

We call doctors who specialize in diseases related to the digestive system ``Gastroenterologists.`` Let's now talk about some of the common medical conditions they treat in our society.

1. Constipation

This is a problem that many people have. Symptoms include difficulty passing stool, not passing stool every day, or stools that are very dry and hard like rocks. Straining to pass stool can even lead to conditions like hemorrhoids.

• Remedies: This can be controlled by drinking plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters per day), eating more fiber-rich foods like papaya, bananas, leafy greens, and spinach, and exercising daily. If it persists, it is important to see your doctor and get appropriate medication.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

This is a functional disorder. What happens here is that the muscles in the intestines contract more or less than normal. This can cause stomach pain, bloating, flatulence, sometimes diarrhea, and other times constipation. This condition is exacerbated by stress.

• Remedies: You can manage this condition by identifying and avoiding foods that "do not suit" you, managing stress, and taking medications prescribed by your doctor.

3. Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in or around the anus. This condition can be caused by excessive straining during bowel movements, prolonged constipation, and pregnancy. The main symptoms are blood in the stool, itching, and pain.

• Remedies: Avoiding constipation is the key. If the pain, swelling, or bleeding continues, it is essential to see a doctor .

4. Gastritis and Acid Reflux/GERD

It is not wrong to call this a national disease of Sri Lanka. Gastritis is an inflammation of the inner wall of the stomach. Symptoms include heartburn, chest pain, stomach pain, and nausea. Acid reflux (GERD) is when the acid produced in the stomach flows back up the esophagus into the throat.

• Causes: Not eating on time, eating oily, chili, spicy foods, smoking, drinking alcohol, some painkillers, and mental stress are the main causes.
• Remedies: This can be well controlled by making lifestyle changes and taking medications as prescribed by a doctor.

5. Colon Polyps and Colon Cancer

This is a serious issue that we all need to be aware of. Colon and rectal cancers are becoming increasingly common. Most of these cancers start as polyps. These are non-cancerous growths at first. But over time, they can turn into cancer.

6. Inflammatory bowel disease (Colitis/IBD)

This is an inflammation of the colon, which means swelling and scarring. This causes symptoms such as persistent diarrhea, blood and mucus in the stool, and abdominal pain. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are two major diseases that fall into this category. These require long-term medical treatment.

7. Celiac Disease

This is a disease related to the immune system. When gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat and barley, enters the body, the body's immune system attacks the small intestine. This disrupts digestion and absorption of nutrients. Symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, and weight loss. If you frequently experience stomach problems after eating foods made with wheat flour, such as bread, cakes, and pasta, it's worth talking to a doctor about this.

What can we do to protect ourselves from these diseases?

There's a saying that goes, "It's better to prevent a disease than to cure it." So, there are some simple things we can do to stay safe from these digestive system diseases.

• A balanced diet: Include fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, greens, and clean water in your daily diet. Reduce processed foods, foods high in oil, sugar, and salt as much as possible.
• Regular exercise: Doing simple exercise like walking for at least 30 minutes a day can greatly help bowel function.
• Go to the bathroom on time: Don't hold back when you feel the need, go to the bathroom as soon as possible.
• Mental health: Stress and anxiety directly affect stomach ailments. Calm your mind with things like yoga and meditation.
• Proper medical checkups: Especially as you age, don't skip the tests your doctor recommends (e.g., colonoscopy).

Living with a condition like this can be challenging at times, and it can interfere with your daily life. It can be difficult to cope with the symptoms and find relief. But remember that you are not alone. These issues affect millions of people. The most important thing is that your healthcare team, especially your doctor, is there for you. Talk openly with them about how you are feeling and the difficulties you are facing. They will listen to you and recommend the best treatment options for your situation.