The human digestive system begins in the mouth and extends the length of the body to the anus. The digestive process begins with the breakdown of food into molecules. These molecules are then absorbed by cell membranes to provide energy. The process ends with the expulsion of waste, or feces. Disorders are unique to every section of the gastrointestinal tract.
GERD
The esophagus is the tube that moves the food or drink after swallowing to the stomach by rhythmic muscular contractions. When the esophagus loses the strength to force the contents toward the stomach, a back flow from the stomach known as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) may occur. Other disorders of the esophagus include cancer and heartburn.
Stomach Ulcer
As many as 5 million people develop ulcers every year. Rush University Medical Center indicates as many as 25 million people in the United States have at least one stomach ulcer during a lifetime. The three most common causes for stomach ulcers in the human digestive system are a lifestyle that includes smoking or physical stress, over-production of hydrochloric acid and pepsin, and infection with the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the human digestive system that causes discomfort in the entire abdominal region. Symptoms include bloating, alternating constipation and diarrhea, nausea, gas and cramps.
Colorectal Polyps
Polyps in the human digestive system differ in size, shape and location. Larger polyps present a greater risk of a diagnosis of precancerous or cancerous growth. Colorectal polyps are more likely to develop into colorectal cancer (cancer of the large intestine and rectum) by the age of 40 if there is a family history of colorectal cancer. Merck.com reports symptoms include bleeding from the rectum. Examination by a colonoscopy provides the best chance for early diagnosis and treatment.
Indigestion
Indigestion is a painful discomfort in the upper abdominal area with bloating and sometimes nausea or vomiting. Eating too much or eating foods high in fat can cause indigestion. Human digestive disorders causing indigestion include irritable bowel syndrome, stomach or duodenal ulcers, gastritis and acid reflux.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease, a human digestive disorder that interferes with the absorption of nutrients, produces intolerance to gluten. If sufferers ingest any food or use any product containing gluten, it will create an immune system response that slowly destroys the lining of the small intestine. Malnourishment is often seen in people with celiac disease. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that celiac disease is genetic and more common in people with other genetic disorders such as Down syndrome.
