Common Gastro Disorders Your Physician Wants You To Know
Posted on: 3 January 2023
If you have digestive issues, you are one of many. Unfortunately, gastrointestinal disorders are incredibly common. The good news is that your family practice physician can help you understand these issues.
Gastrointestinal disorders can impact your life in a significant way, sometimes leading to life-altering effects. These are some of the most common gastro disorders and the impact they could have on your life.
Milk Allergies
Milk allergies can be the result of an intolerance to milk proteins, and it's an issue with the immune system rather than the digestive system. People with milk allergies may experience digestive discomfort, nausea, bloating, and stomach pain after consuming dairy products.
To avoid these symptoms, you may have to avoid dairy products. Dairy alternatives can help you live without these symptoms.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder of the large intestine. Symptoms include stomach pain, cramping, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements. IBS can be difficult to manage since no one treatment works for everyone. Managing your diet, getting regular exercise, and reducing stress are three important steps toward managing IBS.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products. Symptoms are similar to milk allergies in some ways, but lactose intolerance is more of a digestive issue.
Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the symptoms of lactose intolerance. Many people find that consuming small amounts of dairy throughout the day can help them manage their lactose intolerance.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder. People with celiac disease cannot tolerate gluten, a protein typically found in ingredients like wheat and barley. If someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, it can cause inflammation in the small intestine which can lead to abdominal pain, gas, and bloating.
The only way to manage celiac disease is usually to completely avoid gluten. There are a variety of gluten-free foods available, making this easier.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that affects the lower sphincter of the esophagus, which separates it from the stomach. If this muscle becomes weak or relaxes too often, stomach acid can back up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn, chest pain, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
The best way to manage GERD is to avoid certain foods such as spicy or acidic foods. Your doctor can also prescribe medications that can help reduce your symptoms.
Talk to Your Family Physician About Digestive Conditions
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you find the right treatment plan to manage your digestive disorder.
For more info, contact a local family practice physician.
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