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According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, there are 60 million to 70 million Americans who have GI difficulties. Stomachaches are often an indication of a more severe condition, such as a gastrointestinal illness. According to the National Library of Medicine, “The use of healthcare in the United States is significantly influenced by GI illnesses. GI disorders account for $135.9 billion in yearly spending, more than other prevalent diseases. It seems that expenses will keep rising.” According to Suhail Salem, MD, a gastroenterologist at United Medical Doctors and Dignity Health Northridge Hospital, knowing the symptoms of a gastrointestinal ailment may aid in a speedier diagnosis and faster treatment. Here are four symptoms to look out for.
1 — What Is an Intestinal Disease?
According to Dr. Salem, “An issue with the small or large intestine is referred to as an intestinal ailment. Infections, inflammatory disorders like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, physical obstructions, difficulties with the muscles that allow for regular transit through the digestive system, malignancies, and other issues are only a few of the numerous causes of intestinal illness.”
2 — Who is at Risk?
Dr. Salem explains, “Everybody has the potential to have an intestinal condition at some point in their lives. The majority of people are likely acquainted with food poisoning, which is often brought on by bacterial or viral contamination of food. Fortunately, most of the symptoms are not significant and don’t last. A hereditary susceptibility to bowel disorders like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, Celiac disease (gluten allergy), or colon cancer may exist in certain people. Surgery on the abdomen increases the chance of developing scar tissue, which may result in bowel obstructions. Additionally, long-term use of drugs like opiates paralyzes intestinal function. Chronic medical disorders like diabetes often suffer intestinal problems and have an impact on how the digestive system operates.”
3 — How Can You Contribute to Intestinal Disease Prevention?
Dr. Salem says, “First, be careful to look after your digestive system by consuming the recommended quantity of fiber each day, which is 25–30 grams. This will improve your overall health by promoting healthy intestine function as well as other factors like decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol. Avoid using unneeded antibiotics since they may damage your gut’s microbiota and sometimes cause dangerous colon infections. Make sure to start getting checked for colon cancer at age 45, or sooner if there is a family history of the disease.”
4 — What Effects Can an Intestinal Disorder Have on Everyday Life and General Health?
According to Dr. Salem, intestinal problems may significantly affect both everyday life and health. “They may result in a number of unwelcome symptoms that might interfere with everyday living. Your eating habits, including what you eat, how much you can eat, and how effectively you are able to absorb nutrients from the food you are consuming, may be affected by intestinal illnesses.”
5 — Bloating
As stated by Dr. Salem, “One of the most typical signs of intestinal disorders is bloating. The small intestine is 22 feet long and the big intestine is 5 feet long in your digestive system. You may feel bloated if these lengthy digestive tubes get clogged with gas and waste. This sensation may be caused by a wide range of variables, including dietary practices and numerous intestinal disorders.”
6 — Vomiting
If your digestive system is blocked or otherwise dysfunctional, food and liquids won’t be able to flow through regularly and may cause you to vomit.
7 — Diarrhea
Normally, your digestive system performs a fantastic job of breaking down food and water, absorbing the majority of liquids along the way, and excreting solid waste. Diarrhea may result from intestinal disease that impairs your intestines’ capacity to function.
8 — Abdominal Pain
According to Dr. Salem, abdominal pain may be a sign of an issue with the digestive system. Abdominal discomfort may be caused by a variety of illnesses, including infections, obstructions, and inadequate circulation to the intestines.
