Gastrointestinal

What does gastrointestinal mean?

Gastrointestinal is a term referring to the parts of your body that help you digest food. The digestive system includes:

• Mouth
• Throat
• Esophagus
• Stomach
• Small intestine
• Large intestine
• Rectum
• Anus
• Liver
• Salivary glands
• Gallbladder
• Pancreas

Each part of the digestive system plays a role in helping you break down and use food for fuel and cellular repair.

What problems can occur within the gastrointestinal system?

Gastrointestinal conditions can be functional, in which the system appears normal but doesn’t work properly, or structural, in which the system has clear irregularities and also doesn’t work normally. Some of the most common gastrointestinal conditions include: 

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Acid reflux
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Microscopic colitis
• Celiac disease
• Peptic ulcers
• Diverticulitis
• Internal and external hemorrhoids
• Colon polyps
• Colon cancer

Gastrointestinal conditions can cause issues like abdominal cramping, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, fecal incontinence, bloating, and other problems. 

When should I see a doctor about gastrointestinal issues?

If you have gastrointestinal issues that interfere with your life, it’s time to call Alpha Medical Clinic. 

For example, if you have to rush to the bathroom quickly after eating or spend a lot of time on the toilet, your gastrointestinal issue is causing physical discomfort and taking up time that you’d probably rather spend on something else. 

It’s also important to recognize that gastrointestinal issues can worsen if you don’t seek help early. A problem like occasional acid reflux could become more frequent, turning into disruptive GERD, without treatment.

How are gastrointestinal problems treated?

Gastrointestinal problems are treated by making every effort to resolve the factors that trigger your symptoms. In some cases, this could involve diet and lifestyle changes alone, while other situations might call for healthy living along with daily medication. 

Some gastrointestinal problems, like colon polyps, generally require a removal procedure (usually via a colonoscopy).    

Following your recommended gastrointestinal treatment plan closely can lessen or eliminate your symptoms and help you enjoy a normal active lifestyle. 

Alpha Medical Clinic offers gastrointestinal care focused on your individual needs. If you have gastrointestinal symptoms, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.