What Are Some of the Different Types of Digestive System Diseases That a Gastroenterologist Can Help You With?
Posted on: 21 June 2022
Gastroenterologists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing digestive system disorders. If you think that you might suffer from some type of disease that is related to your digestive system, then you may want to ask your primary care doctor for a referral to a good gastroenterologist. These are some of the common diseases that they help people with.
1. Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis happens when small pouches (known as diverticula) form inside your intestines. They can form anywhere in your intestines, and they can become infected or inflamed. You might have diverticulitis if you suffer from abdominal pain, nausea, and fever and if you have noticed some changes in your bowel movements. Your doctor might recommend that you change your diet and take antibiotics if your diverticulitis is relatively mild. In more serious cases, surgery or hospitalisation might be required.
2. Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a chronic immune system and digestive disorder. There is no cure for celiac disease, although there are treatments that can help. Typically, people with celiac disease have a negative immune reaction to consuming gluten. Some people have no symptoms, but the most common symptom is diarrhea. In more serious cases, someone with celiac disease might suffer from fatigue, bloating, gas, anemia, and even osteoporosis. Your doctor will recommend a gluten-free diet if you suffer from celiac disease. It can be tough to get adjusted to this type of strict diet, but there are many gluten-free food options out there, and your doctor can guide you.
3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) doesn't really have a well-understood cause, but it's very common and can cause stomach pain, gas, constipation, and diarrhea. Changing your diet and lifestyle can go a long way toward treating IBS, and your gastroenterologist should have some great recommendations for you to try. However, in some cases, medication is needed.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) comes in a few common types, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases involve ongoing inflammation in part or all of the digestive tract. Medications are typically prescribed for those who are diagnosed with IBD, and in some cases, surgery is needed as well.
5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is also commonly known as acid reflux. This occurs when stomach acid often flows back into the esophagus. There are over-the-counter medications that you can try, and making diet changes can help a lot, too. However, in some cases, prescription medications are sometimes required.
To learn more, contact a company like Ologist.
Share