Common Digestive Disorders

Millions of Americans suffer from digestive problems such as heartburn, GERD, Irritable Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome. This article will provide you with a summary of the five most common digestive disorders. This article does not constitute or replace medical advice, and if you suspect you are suffering from one of these digestive disorders, you should consult with your doctor.

• Heartburn/Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD is a digestive disorder that affects the muscle connecting your esophagus with your stomach. Symptoms include a burning chest pain that travels from your breastbone to your neck and throat. Sometimes GERD can be triggered by other conditions such as a hiatal hernia. Heartburn and acid indigestion can be caused by GERD. It can be triggered by many things, including food, medication and stress. Heartburn treatments include medications, home remedies, or changes in your diet.

• Irritable Bowel Disease - Ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is a digestive disorder which causes inflammation in the lining of the large intestine or colon. The cause of Irritable Bowel Disease is unknown, although some doctors believe it is caused by the immune system overreacting to normal bacteria in the digestive tract. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea. It can also cause joint pain, eye problems or liver disease, although these symptoms are more common in people with Crohn's Disease (see below.) Most people who are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis have it before the age of 30. Treatment includes steroid medicines, over-the-counter medication for diarrhea, and sometimes surgery.

• Irritable Bowel Disease - Crohn's Disease. Crohn's Disease is a digestive disorder which causes chronic inflammation in the intestines. Although primarily affecting the large and small intestines, this disorder can affect your digestive system anywhere from your mouth to your anus. The cause of Crohn's Disease is unknown, although there are certain factors such as genetics, environment, and immune system problems which are thought to contribute to this disorder. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever and diarrhea, although people with Crohn's Disease can also have joint pain, eye problems or liver disease. Sores in your mouth, nutritional deficiencies, and weight loss can also be symptoms. Treatments include medication and dietary changes.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Irritable Bowel Syndrome affects up to 55 million Americans. The causes of this digestive disorder are unknown. Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome include diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramping. Treatments include diet and lifestyle changes, as well as medication.

• Diverticulosis/Diverticulitis. Diverticulosis is a digestive disorder that occurs when pouches form in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis occurs when an infection develops in these pouches. This can cause diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Treatment for Diverticulitis include diet changes and fiber supplements.

If you suspect you have any of these conditions, please consult with your doctor immediately, as some of these disorders can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

Source List:

http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/default.htm
http://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/default.htm
http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/default.htm
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/tc/diverticulosis-topic-overview