Symptoms of digestive problems

Digestive problems are probably the most common health complaint in the world. There are many diseases and conditions that affect the digestive tract and, even though the symptoms may be similar, most of them come with their own characteristic set of symptoms. People who frequently suffer from digestive problems are advised to see a doctor who will diagnose the condition and recommend treatment that will largely improve the quality of life and prevent possible complications.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a common problem that affects many people. It is also called spastic colon, spastic colitis, intestinal neurosis, mucous colitis and more.

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include gas, bloating, diarrhea, pain, spasms, nausea and constipation. These symptoms, especially the pain, often set in after meals, which is why people who suffer from IBS often do not eat well and it leads to malnutrition.

As for the causes of this problem, doctors agree it is the combination of stress, allergies, medications, parasites, infections, hormone changes, laxatives and several more.

Diverticular disease

Diverticular disease is a digestive problem that usually affects elderly people. Diverticula are small pouches on the colon wall, caused by constipation. When diverticula are present in the colon, the condition is called diverticulosis. For many, this condition does not involve any symptoms and they may not even be aware of suffering from it. However, some people do experience certain symptoms, usually spasms and pain.

If the diverticula rupture, they cause diverticulitis, which causes pain and fever.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease or IMD encompasses two health problems - Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Even though these two diseases are different, they have similar symptoms. They also include some of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The symptoms may include diarrhea, bloating, pain, cramps, constipation, weight loss, rectal bleeding and fever.

Leaky gut syndrome

In healthy people, the intestinal walls only allow completely digested food to pass through. However, in leaky gut syndrome, the gut walls allow larger particles of food as well.