Maintaining gut health is essential for overall well-being. The digestive system, which includes the upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) tracts, plays a vital role in processing food and absorbing nutrients. When something goes wrong, you will feel the effects on your health.
Understanding common conditions affecting digestive health can help you recognize symptoms and seek timely treatment. The information can also help you prevent their development.
In this article, we discuss the gut microbiome and the common conditions affecting gut health.
Defining the Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome is a community of trillions of microorganisms living in your digestive tract. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes are among the microorganisms present in your gut.
Combined, they play an important role in the following:
- Helping digest food
- Producing vitamins
- Supporting your immune system
- Protecting against harmful bacteria
- Influencing mood and mental health
A poor gut microbiome can indeed contribute to the development of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.
Most Common Upper GI Disorders
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, irritating the upper GI tract. Symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest and pain in the upper abdomen. Untreated GERD can lead to complications like esophageal ulcers and Barrett’s esophagus.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are lesions that form on the inner lining of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. They can cause burning stomach pain, bloating, and nausea. Common causes include Helicobacter pylori infection and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be acute or chronic and may result from food triggers, alcohol, and certain medications. Symptoms include abdominal pain or a burning sensation in the stomach.
Lower GI Disorders
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Things like chronic stress and triggering foods can cause IBS flare-ups. Identifying and avoiding triggers is important to avoid IBS symptoms as much as possible.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions cause chronic inflammation of the GI tract due to a weakened immune system. Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease are at risk for strictures, fistulas, and cancer.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that form in the walls of the colon. Symptoms include tenderness in the abdomen and changes in bowel habits. There are serious risks to having diverticulitis, and as much as 15 percent of individuals develop complications.
Functional Disorders
Constipation
Constipation involves infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It can lead to discomfort and bloating. Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and regular exercise can help manage this condition.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools. It can result from infections, certain foods, or digestive disorders. Staying hydrated and avoiding trigger foods are important for managing diarrhea.
Indigestion
Indigestion, or dyspepsia, involves persistent or recurring pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. It can cause bloating, nausea, and early fullness. A couple of ways to reduce indigestion are to have a healthy diet and control your daily stress levels.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS involves a combination of symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. It is a functional disorder without a clear cause. Managing stress, diet, and exercise can help control symptoms.
Why GI Disorders Develop
Maintaining digestive health is important, as poor gut health can lead to a variety of health issues.
Consider looking into the following for improving digestive health:
- Dietary Habits: Eating high-fat, fried, or spicy foods and consuming too much caffeine or alcohol can irritate your digestive system. These can lead to issues like gastritis or acid reflux. Fixing your diet is the first step toward improving digestive health.
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can affect how your GI tract functions. This may cause conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or make existing GI disorders worse. Stress management should be a priority.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of various GI disorders, including peptic ulcers, gastritis, and certain types of digestive system cancers. Seek out support for quitting smoking for better digestive health.
- Medication Use: Some medications, like Ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin (Disprin), can irritate the stomach lining. These, along with other prescription medications, can increase the risk of peptic ulcers or gastritis. Check with your healthcare provider for alternatives.
- Infections: Bacterial infections, like Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), can cause gastritis and peptic ulcers. An H.pylori infection should be treated to prevent GI complications.
- Genetic Predisposition: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be genetic. Patients at risk should work toward addressing other risk factors.
- Autoimmune Reactions: Autoimmune conditions like celiac disease or autoimmune gastritis can damage the GI tract. These conditions should be properly managed to prevent complications.
If you have concerns about your digestive health, consult a gastroenterology practice. Gastroenterologists specialize in treating conditions affecting gut health. They can provide personalized care and help you maintain a healthy gut.
Treatment for Digestive Health Conditions in Austin, TX
At Austin Gastroenterology, our board-certified gastroenterologists provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis and treatment to maintaining gut health. We treat common and complex GI conditions and often see patients with multiple GI disorders.
At Austin Gastro, we are committed to improving your health and well-being. To schedule an appointment with a GI doctor, call our office near you or use our appointment request form.
