Everyone has suffered from a digestive problem at one point or another, and the occasional short bout with a digestive problem such as diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation or nausea is usually not a cause for concern. However, a doctor should be consulted any time digestive issues last longer than a few days.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is characterized by pain, bloating and diarrhea alternating with constipation. There is no known cause of IBS, but many people have flare-ups during stressful periods. Remedies for IBS include prescription medications such as dicyclomine, which calms the bowel and decreases spasms. Using immodium will decrease motility, or movement, in the digestive tract and prevent diarrhea. Increasing fiber and water intake can relieve constipation. Decreasing stress is important in treating IBS.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is when stomach acid travels up the esophagus. Medicines to control heartburn are used to treat GERD. Over-the-counter antacids and proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole help to relieve heartburn. According to the Mayo Clinic, most cases of GERD can be controlled with over-the-counter or prescription medications. For severe GERD symptoms, surgery to reinforce the esophageal sphincter or surgery to prevent the back up of stomach acid can be performed.
Ulcers
An infection with H. pylori bacteria is one of the main causes of ulcers, or sores, in the lining of the digestive tract. Long-term use of certain medications such as anti-inflammatories can also cause ulcers. According to the Mayo Clinic, the best remedies to treat ulcers include antibiotics for bacterial infection, and reduction of acid to relieve pain and promote healing. The same medications used to treat GERD can also be used to treat ulcers.
Food Intolerance
Certain foods can cause digestive problems. An intolerance to dairy is a common food sensitivity, for example. Lactose intolerance is the inability or insufficient ability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products. Lactase enzymes are available for people who have this intolerance, and there are many lactose-free products as well. The easiest way to avoid digestive problems associated with a certain food is to avoid that food.
