UNDERSTANDING COMMON DIGESTIVE DISORDERS
The digestive system is a complex organ system that is responsible for breaking down food and extracting nutrients and energy from it. It includes the gastrointestinal tract and accessory organs like the liver, pancreas and gallbladder. Throughout our lives, the digestive system works tirelessly to keep us nourished and healthy. However, like other body systems, the digestive system is also prone to developing various disorders.
Digestive disorders refer to any abnormalities or problems that interfere with normal digestion. They can range from minor problems like gas and bloating to life-threatening cancers. As the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, Galaxy Care Hospital understands the need to pay attention to digestive disorders before they become something serious as cancers.
Let us help you understand some of the common digestive disorders, their causes and symptoms.
COMMON TYPES OF DIGESTIVE DISORDERS
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a common digestive disorder that affects a huge population in India. It occurs when stomach acid or contents flow back into the food pipe or esophagus due to abnormal functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Common symptoms are a burning sensation or pain in the chest or throat, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, nausea and regurgitation of bitter or sour food or liquid. Lifestyle factors like excess weight, smoking, intake of spicy food, carbonated drinks and caffeine often aggravate GERD symptoms.
Long-term complications may include esophagitis, strictures and Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that may progress to cancer of the esophagus.
Treatment involves lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter antacids or prescription proton pump inhibitors as per the severity of symptoms. Surgery is advised in case of complications or treatment failure.
Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcers refer to open sores or lesions that develop in the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine, mainly due to infection with H. pylori bacteria or long-term use of NSAID painkillers.
Major symptoms are a burning sensation in the stomach region, abdominal pain which gets relieved by food or antacids, nausea, vomiting or black tarry stools. If left untreated, ulcers can bleed or perforate the intestinal lining leading to severe complications.
Diagnosis is usually done by endoscopy which can visualize the ulcers. Treatment includes antibiotic therapy to eradicate H. pylori infection, reduce stomach acid secretion and protect the ulcers from healing. Surgery may be needed for perforated or bleeding ulcers. With advances in treatment, the ulcer recurrence rate has reduced significantly.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders affecting around 10-15% of the world population. It refers to abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits in the absence of any detectable medical cause.
Common IBS symptoms are abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea. It arises due to abnormalities in gut motility, sensation and central processing. Stress, diet, and infection are some triggers.
Diagnosis is by ruling out other gastrointestinal diseases through history, examination and tests. Treatment aims at easing symptoms via lifestyle modifications, antispasmodics, antibiotics and psychotherapy. Dietary changes involving fiber supplements and probiotics yield good results.
Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease
Gallstones are hard calcified deposits that form inside the gallbladder due to excess cholesterol or bilirubin in bile. Some key factors linked to gallstones are obesity, rapid weight loss, cholesterol metabolism defects and certain diseases or medications.
Common symptoms are abdominal or back pain on the right side which may radiate to the right shoulder blade. Pain is typically associated with food containing fat and is relieved by vomiting. Ultrasound is the initial test to detect gallstones.
Minor gallbladder conditions are managed conservatively with painkillers, but complicated cases may require the removal of the gallbladder surgically. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the preferred treatment options. Seek consultation from the Best Laparoscopic Surgeon in Pune for Laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, develops from the lining of the stomach. It often has no clear symptoms in the early stages. As it progresses, symptoms may include indigestion, abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Risk factors include age above 50, family history of cancer, smoking, etc. Treatment depends on the stage of cancer and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or targeted therapy. Complete removal of the stomach along with lymph nodes is done for early-stage cancer. Seek consultation from the Best Cancer Specialist in Pune if you experience stomach cancer-related symptoms.
CONCLUSION
In summary, digestive disorders ranging from functional conditions to inflammatory diseases can significantly impact the quality of life if not managed properly. With rising levels of stress, and changing diets and lifestyles globally, the incidence of these disorders has increased manifolds. Hence, creating awareness regarding common symptoms and healthy habits is important. Specialized centres with expertise in gastrointestinal care offer state-of-the-art treatments for all digestive conditions.
Galaxy Care Hospital, the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, is recognized for offering advanced treatments like minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgeries. Our experienced team of surgeons, gastroenterologists and nutrition experts work together to deliver comprehensive care tailored to individual needs. Availability of the latest diagnostic technologies, 24×7 emergency services and inpatient facilities ensure the best outcomes. Trust Galaxy Care Hospital for efficient management of digestive diseases and cancers. Book your appointment today!
