Digestive tract disorders can range from occasional heartburn to more serious complications such as cirrhosis or cancer. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that any kind of digestive disorder can affect daily activities and lead to further complications if not treated appropriately. According to a 2004 study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), more than 104 million ambulatory visits to doctors and hospitals were for digestive problems; 35 out of every 100 Americans suffered from some level of digestive disorders.
Food-Borne Illnesses
Food-borne illnesses are common and result from eating food that's been contaminated by bacteria, viruses or parasites. Common symptoms of food-borne digestive disorders are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, vomiting and fever. Often sufferers experience only an upset stomach that's usually caused by raw or undercooked food. More serious strains of food poisoning that come from the E. coli bacteria can cause kidney failure, miscarriages or death, reports the NIDDKD.
Bowel Disorders
Bowel disorders range from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to constipation and celiac disease. IBS causes a variety of symptoms that vary from person to person but can include abdominal pain and bloating. While there are no sure reasons for IBS, researchers at the NIDDKD report that sensitivity to certain foods and a weak immune system may lead to the condition. Constipation and diarrhea are symptoms that can indicate any number of disorders, from the flu to IBS and stroke or poor eating habits. Celiac disease is another common disorder caused by an allergy to gluten and also results in abdominal pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhea and weight loss.
Ulcers
Ulcers are sores that appear in the stomach or upper part of the small intestine and cause a dull stomachache, bloating, nausea and vomiting. The NIDDKD reports that one in 10 Americans experience some level of ulcers at various times in their lives. The H. pylori bacteria are responsible for most ulcers by weakening the mucus lining the stomach, allowing acid to seep through.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a condition that develops when the diaphragm cannot stop acid from rising back up through the esophagus. GERD causes frequent heartburn, which is a burning sensation that appears behind the breastbone and the middle of the stomach. Certain foods that can irritate a sensitive esophagus include chocolate, caffeine, fried and fatty foods, spicy food and citrus fruit. Other conditions that can cause GERD are obesity, smoking and pregnancy.
