Gastrointestinal Diseases: What is It & Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorders?

Gastroenterology is one of the major specialties in the medical sciences which focuses on the health of the digestive system or the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Similarly, gastroenterologists are professionals who are specialized in treating a wide range of diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hepatitis C, etc.

Here, most perform the endoscopic procedure which involves the use of specialized instruments to view the GI tract thus, helping in properly diagnosing the treatment.

Gastrointestinal disorders are of several types such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, etc. Their symptoms can be watered down by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing good bowel habits, and submitting to cancer screening. These disorders can result in worsening the situation so, it is imperative to consult the best gastroenterologist in Mumbai.

However, These Gastrointestinal Disorders Can be Classified Into 2 Categories:

Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Functional disorders can be defined as those in which the gastrointestinal (GI) tract looks normal but doesn't work properly. So, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome are some of the most common problems affecting the GI tract including the colon and rectum.

Know About The 2 Functional Disorders That Gastroenterologists Treat:

• Constipation

When it is hard to have a bowel movement or in passing stools and the frequency of the proper bowel movement is less than three times a week, or incomplete then it might be an indication of constipation. Constipation is usually caused by less water intake, inadequate "roughage" or fiber in the diet, or a disruption of the regular routine or diet. This can be treated by increasing the water intake and fiber in your diet.

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Also, known by different names like spastic colon, irritable colon, and nervous stomach, irritable bowel syndrome can be defined as the condition in which the colon muscle contracts more often than in people without IBS. There are certain foods, emotional stress are some factors that can trigger IBS.

When To Go to a Doctor?

1. Excess gas
2. Abdominal pain and cramps
3. Bloating
4. Change in bowel habits such as harder, looser, or more urgent stools than normal
5. Alternating constipation and diarrhea

The home remedies can also be proved to be beneficial like avoiding caffeine, increasing fiber in the diet, etc.

Structural Gastrointestinal Disorders

Unlike functional disorders, structural disorders are those in which the bowel also looks abnormal and does not work properly. Sometimes, there is a need to remove structional disorders surgically.

3 Snal Disorders That You Must Be Aware of:

• Hemorrhoids

It is caused by chronic excess pressure from straining during a bowel movement, persistent diarrhea, or pregnancy. These can be defined as swollen blood vessels that line the anal opening.

• Anal fissure

It can be defined as splits or cracks in the lining of the anal opening. The cause of the disorder is the passage of very hard or watery stools. It can be treated by the consumption of a high fibrous diet and if more serious would need you to take pain medicines.

• Perianal abscesses

Perianal abscesses occur when the tiny anal glands which are open on the inside of the anus become blocked, and the bacteria always present in these glands cause an infection. As a puss develops, this results in the formation of an abscess. This can be treated by draining the abscess.

Is Self-Management The Key Solution?

Self-management is the key solution for the maximum of gastrointestinal disorders. So, the colon and rectum can be prevented or minimized by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing good bowel habits, and submitting to cancer screening.

So, if you are suffering from any of the disorders then should no more waste time and immediately consult the best doctor in India.

Reviewed By

Dr. Purshottam Vashistha (Sr. Consultant - Gastroenterology & Hepatology)

Dr. Purshottam Vashistha is the Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital. With an experience of over 24 years, he specializes in Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Haemorrhoids, and other stomach-related issues.