Digestive disorders can range from being mildly uncomfortable to causing severe pain at times. Problems may develop from something you ate or because of a condition that makes your digestive tract worse from your diet. Knowing the particular problem can help you get treatment that is often simple and can relieve you of pain or aggravation.
Acid Indigestion
Certain foods or beverages may cause acid indigestion or heartburn--the pain or burning in the upper chest that rises through the throat and may result in a sour taste. Food may even be found in the mouth following an episode. Heartburn that happens more than twice a week may indicate acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), according to the National Institutes of Health. Reducing the symptoms may be as simple as finding the offending food that causes frequent heartburn. Antacids or acid relievers may relieve acid reflux. Your doctor can provide stronger medication and further treatment. Left untreated, the condition can damage the esophagus.
Constipation
Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems. Bowel movements may be difficult or infrequent. Sometimes the stools may become very hard, and it's difficult to pass them without straining or pain. There may be a feeling of needing to relieve yourself even after having a bowel movement. The normal number of bowel movements depends on the person and can range from three movements a day to three times a week, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Constipation occurs when you're not having your normal number of bowel movements. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating more fiber may help improve regularity.
Ulcers
Consuming food that contains too much acid may cause ulcers. Sores can result in the esophagus, stomach and the duodenum, the first part of the intestines. They are called esophageal, stomach or duodenal ulcers. Stress may aggravate the condition. Anti-inflammatory medicines for other conditions may also damage the stomach lining. Symptoms of ulcers may include bloating, burning or dull pains in the stomach. You may feel better after eating or drinking but feel worse a couple of hours later. Stomach pain in the middle of the night and unexpected weight loss are other possible symptoms. Treatment may include medication to get rid of bacteria causing the ulcer, or medicine to reduce stomach acid.
Bowel Diseases
Inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract may cause ulcerative colitis, which results in ulcers in the colon and rectum. It may also cause bleeding. Crohn's disease causes infection, ulcers, thickening of the intestinal wall and blockages. Some Crohn's patients need surgery to repair damage. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disorders can cause frequent bouts of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Medication is needed to treat the diseases. Diverticulitis causes problems in the lining of the bowel. Small pouches in the intestine may become infected and inflamed, resulting in abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, fever and nausea. Eating more fiber, drinking plenty of fluids and taking medication prescribed by a doctor may help relieve the disorder.
