5 Common Gastrointestinal Issues That No One Should Ignore

Gastrointestinal diseases have many types. But some are more common than the others. Know more about the common ones and their symptoms to take the right action. Keep reading for they have been elucidated here as follows.

Gallstones

Gallstones are hard deposits in the gallbladder which can be a result of too much cholesterol or waste in the bile, or when the gallbladder doesn’t function properly. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped sack that is responsible for the secretion and bile juice that promotes digestion. Almost 1 million new cases are diagnosed in the United States every year. The most common symptom of gallstone is a sharp pain in the upper right abdomen. The smaller gallstones can be treated with medications; however, the bigger ones need surgical removal of the gallbladder.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s Disease is also commonly known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It affects the terminal ileum, which joins the end of the small intestine with the large intestine. However, Crohn’s Disease is also known to affect the entire digestive tract. The CCFA (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation) estimates to 780,000 people being affected by the disease. The cause of the disease is still not identified; however, genes and family history can be triggers. The most common symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fever. Treatment of Crohn’s disease includes painkillers and surgery.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

About 45 million Americans suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which is also recognized as an extremely common digestive issue. The symptoms of IBS can differ largely from person to person. Some can become constipated while some may suffer from diarrhea. Bloating and abdominal pain is also common symptoms of IBS. According to the top gastroenterology doctors in durham, IBS can be treated mainly by changing the diet. Eating food that has high fiber contains and avoiding triggers like dairy and alcohol can make an immense change to IBS. Stress is also a known trigger for IBS. Try to meditate and lead a healthy lifestyle to battle irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Hemorrhoids

Inflammation of the veins around your anus, which is often painful, is medically known as hemorrhoids, or in common term, piles. It is a very common condition with almost 75% Americans over the age of 45 suffering from the same. Piles are itchy and annoying. Applying a cold compress or sitting in a tub of hot water can help ease the pain. The cause can be varied and is often recognized by difficulty in passing stool or blood. Piles can be treated by eating food with fiber, drinking more water and exercising. Sometimes, the operation is needed under extreme cases.

Ulcerative Colitis

According to CCFA, almost about 907,000 Americans are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis every year. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine, or also known as the colon. When the immune system mistakes foods for harmful invaders, it develops sores or ulcers in the colon lining. Some of the common symptoms include frequent and urgent bowel movement, abdominal pain, blood in the stool and cramps. The severity of colitis can be judged properly by performing a colonoscopy. Sometimes surgery might be necessary to remove the colon. In some cases, medicines can do the charm as well.

Thus, now that you know about the most common gastrointestinal issues and their symptoms make sure you are safe and take appropriate precautions on time. Performing GI endoscopy, colonoscopy and other diagnosis procedure, Dr. Kurt Vernon is the best person to consult with if you have been suffering from digestive issues. With enough experience and qualification, he is reliable and trustworthy. Book an appointment today by paying an affordable fee!

AUDIO VERSION: