Day after day, your digestive system works hard to process the food you eat. When it’s working properly, most people hardly notice their digestive tract. However, when any part of this complex system malfunctions, we become painfully aware of its importance. Below are some common causes of various gastrointestinal symptoms. If you are experiencing any of these, talk to a GI doctor for a diagnosis and treatment. Common Gastrointestinal Symptoms Digestive disorder symptoms can range from a ... [Read More]
Digestive Care
Getting Your Digestive System in Shape After Unhealthy Eating
Did you know that occasionally bingeing on junk food is just as bad for your gut health as regularly having an unhealthy diet? According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of South Wales in Australia, intermittent exposure to unhealthy foods for even just a few days a week is enough to significantly cause harm to your gut health. So don’t wait till it’s too late—break those unhealthy eating habits before they wreak havoc on your gut and overall health. Here are a few ... [Read More]
Acid Reflux: It’s More Than Just Heartburn
If you’ve felt a painful and burning sensation from your upper abdomen to your chest or throat, that’s acid reflux. Acid reflux usually occurs after meals, at nighttime, or when you are lying down – especially after having a big or greasy dinner. Acid reflux is a common digestive problem, and its most common symptom is heartburn, accompanied by a bitter or sour taste in your mouth. If left untreated, the condition can become chronic and develop into GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), ... [Read More]
What Is My Doctor Looking for During an Endoscopy?
If you’ve been feeling unwell but have no apparent symptoms, or your symptoms point to several conditions, your doctor may request special diagnostic tests. One example of a diagnostic test is an endoscopy, which allows your doctor to look into your inner tissues and organs. In particular, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy lets your doctor examine your gastrointestinal tract. Let’s talk about the procedure and what your doctor can see during an endoscopy. An Overview of ... [Read More]
Conquering Constipation: Tips From Your Gastroenterologist
Constipation is a complicated and awkward topic for some. However, you have nothing to be ashamed of, because it is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions. In fact, according to research, 2.5 million Americans consult their doctors about being constipated every year. If you need help conquering constipation, here are some tips from gut experts. What Causes Constipation? Medications, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are common ... [Read More]
Fun Facts About Your Digestive System
Most people have a rough understanding of how digestion works thanks to biology class back in school. We know the essential parts of the digestive system, such as the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Get ready to smile. Here are some fun tidbits about our digestive system: Digestion Starts in Your Mouth When people think about digestion, many tend to visualize food breaking down in the stomach. However, it starts in the mouth. Although the teeth are part of the skeletal system, they ... [Read More]
Is It Possible to Live Without Parts of the Digestive System?
Yes! The digestive system breaks down and digests the food and drink you consume in order to extract nutrients and energy for your body. It consists of the gastrointestinal tract and the digestive organs, all the way from the mouth to the anus. A human cannot survive without certain parts of the digestive system. However, humans can now continue to live without a natural stomach or large intestine or other organs, thanks to advances in medicine and technology – such as the colostomy and ... [Read More]
How to Relieve Constipation
If you have fewer than three bowel movements in a week, and find it difficult or painful to pass one, you may be suffering from constipation. This is a common problem, as about 16% of all adults and 33% of adults over the age of 60 in the United States report having this issue, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Constipation can be caused by a number of factors, and treatments can vary depending on the frequency, cause, and severity of the condition. If you regularly suffer ... [Read More]
When Should I See a GI Doctor?
When people have abdominal pain or digestive problems, they are likely to think something is wrong with the stomach. However, the underlying issue could be a variety of things affecting any of the organs in the gastrointestinal system. GI doctors are experts of the gastrointestinal system and can diagnose and treat a plethora of conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines (large and small), pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, liver, colon, and rectum. An issue with any of these could ... [Read More]
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder affecting the large intestine. It is a condition characterized by abdominal distress linked with modified bowel movements. Although not considered a life-threatening condition, it is a chronic disorder that needs long-term management. IBS usually comes and goes throughout life, which may bring frustration and discomfort. Irritable bowel syndrome is different from inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. It doesn't cause damage in your bowel ... [Read More]
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