Gastrointestinal Diseases: Common Issues in Women & Its Symptoms
By Dr. Purushottam Vashistha in Nanavati Max Institute of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Therapeutic Endoscopy
Apr 24 , 2023 | 3 min read
Sometimes, we are too careful and sometimes, we are too careless. While the former never works in a negative way, the latter is set to bring us harm. This is quite common when it comes to gastro issues, especially in the case of women because we are so engrossed with responsibilities (and even if we are not), taking care of our own health is not much of a priority which is absolutely not acceptable. I learned my lesson when my loss of appetite was diagnosed as a symptom of gastritis. I still was not very alarmed until it was made clear to my notice that gastritis if not treated properly, it could lead to cancer as well. I got my all work postponed and visited the best gastroenterologist in Mumbai.
After this incident, I never ignored my health issues let alone the gastrointestinal ones. I know there are women like me who do not pay heed to common gastrointestinal issues which is wrong. So, let me help you with some of these health issues, what are their symptoms, and their treatments as well. Before jumping to the common gastrointestinal issues, let me make this clear, I was lucky enough to get treated on time. Not always you can find the best gastrointestinal surgeon free for your treatment. Why risk it till it becomes a life-threatening problem? If you have any gastro issues, consult a doctor immediately.
Let’s start with gastritis. In my case, the underlying cause was diagnosed as stress, thanks to my hectic daily schedule. But gastritis can also be caused by certain medications and unregulated intake of alcohol. If you experience an unhealthy burning sensation between your meals or particularly at night, it could be possible that you are suffering from gastritis. During gastritis, inflammation develops in the stomach lining. This can cause symptoms of pain and bloat in the abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. As for the diagnosis of gastritis, endoscopy, breath test, fecal occult blood test, and stool test are some of the procedures. If you will ask the top gastroenterologist in India about a complete treatment of any gastrointestinal problem, dietary changes will always be a part of the recommended treatment. So, is the case with gastritis along with medications? I was strictly asked to spicy food items until complete recovery is made.
Another common gastro issue is bloating. Sometimes, bloating can make you consult the best gynecology hospital in Mumbai and it is not good news. Unlike the common perception about bloating, it can be a severe condition too, it could be a sign of cancer such as ovarian cancer. If bloating in the abdomen is in addition to any other gastrointestinal issue such as a state of nausea or abdominal pain, it could be the manifestation of an underlying severe health problem. Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss or gain, presence of blood in the stool, fever or chills, jaundice, and vaginal bleeding (except menstruation) should also be considered a serious symptoms when especially present with abdominal bloating. If you are suffering from any such conditions, consult a gynecologist.
My gynecology doctors in Mumbai pointed out towards irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects women more than men. Manifested through abdominal bloating, issues with the bowel movement such as constipation, and changes in the stool appearance, irritable bowel syndrome is diagnosed with blood tests, colonoscopy, endoscopy, stool tests, and X-rays. The treatment for irritable bowel syndrome is often the integration of medications and lifestyle changes. Women should be more careful of irritable bowel syndrome because it can exist with other gastrointestinal problems which make the treatment complicated.
Women need to take care of their health. Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid unnecessary fats, sugars, and salts. The habit of smoking can deteriorate the health and cause serious health issues, quit it. The excessive use of alcohol should be avoided. Gain healthy habits, exercise on a daily basis, and go for regular health check-ups.
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Purshottam Vashistha (Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Dr. Purshottam Vashistha is the Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital. With an experience of over 24 years, he specializes in Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Haemorrhoids, and other stomach-related issues.
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