Stomach and Digestive Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

What are digestive problems?

Digestive problems are medical conditions characterised by disruption of the normal digestion processes of the body. A person experiencing digestive problems has difficulty or cannot absorb nutrients from food and remove waste products from his or her body.

Digestive problems concern a wide range of medical issues related to the gastrointestinal system. It can include symptoms and illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and food intolerances.

How are digestive problems diagnosed?

Your physician will initially diagnose your condition through the following means:

Asking you to explain your signs and symptoms
Letting you complete a diary of bowel movements, noting the frequency of occurrence and what form of stool you are passing

If the two methods above are insufficient for an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may physically examine your abdomen as needed. He will gently check for swelling or tenderness by pressing down on various abdomen areas.

Most cases are diagnosed through those three methods. However, if the doctor suspects something else, he may send you for other tests, which may include any of these:

Ultrasounds
X-rays
MRI scans
Endoscopy
Colonoscopy

These procedures will let the doctor see the condition of your vital digestive organs inside the body.

If an infection is suspected, your physician typically requests a test to check your blood, urine, and stool for bacterial, viral, or parasitic presence.

How are digestive problems diagnosed?

Mild digestive conditions can be managed with lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications. Severe and chronic digestive problems benefit the most from medications and permanent lifestyle changes. If you have any concerns about your symptoms (whether it’s the first time or they’re getting worse), it’s best to speak with a physician to settle your mind.

What forms of digestive problems are there?

Here’s a list of the common digestive problems experienced by the public:

When should I see a doctor with digestive problems?

Most digestive problems are mild and clear up on their own. However, there are plenty of cases when symptoms never go away or worsen despite treatment. These cases indicate a more significant problem and warrant a trip to the doctor if your symptoms persist after two weeks of over-the-counter medications and management.

Urgently seek medical care if you experience any of these symptoms:

Abdominal swelling
Vomiting blood
Blood in your stools
Sudden and massive weight loss
Yellowish discolouration of the eyes or skin
Dramatic changes in stool frequency
Worsening stomach pain, indigestion, or heartburn

How are digestive problems treated?

Treatment is typically specific to the digestive condition you are experiencing. But common digestive problems can be alleviated through these lifestyle modifications:

Increasing water intake
Cutting down on your intake of fizzy drinks, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages
Decreasing your fatty and spicy food intake
Increasing fibre-rich foods in your diet
Eating and drinking slowly without rushing
Incorporating exercise into your daily routines
Wearing loose clothing
Stopping your smoking habits altogether
Avoiding lying down 2-3 hours after finishing your meal