Common Digestive Disorders That Can Affect Anyone

By Dr. Purushottam Vashistha in Nanavati Max Institute of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Therapeutic Endoscopy

Apr 24 , 2023 | 3 min read

The digestive disorder is a blanket term used for a wide spectrum of gastrointestinal conditions that affect the normal process of digestion. Such conditions have become quite prevalent nowadays owing to unhealthy lifestyle practices and eating habits. Digestive disorders can affect the quality of your life and prevent you from eating your favorite food. These can affect people of any age group or gender. Some might even be hereditary.

Here is a list of 5 common digestive disorders that should not be taken lightly:

Gastritis- the condition is marked by severe inflammation in the protective lining of the stomach which may be a result of many factors, the most common of which are bacterial infection, excessive alcohol intake, use of tobacco, excessive stress, and side-effect of certain medication. A person suffering from gastritis experiences persistent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal bloating. The best way to avoid the problem is by refraining from eating spicy, fatty, and fried food products. Gastroenterologists in Mumbai usually recommend healthy dietary modifications to treat the same. Medication is also prescribed to help deal with the symptoms and curb the problem.

Peptic Ulcers- These are painful sores that develop in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract due to the inflammation caused by H.pylori bacteria. The patient is likely to experience chronic abdominal discomfort and bloating that aggravates after meals. Some other symptoms include traces of blood in stools, frequent vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite. Timely medical intervention is very important as the problem is progressive in nature and can lead to severe complications. Peptic ulcers can be completely treated with proper medication and guidance which is offered at all the best hospitals in India.

Constipation- The problem is very common and known to all. It is marked by reduced stool frequency. A person suffering from constipation passes stools merely 3 times a week and finds it difficult to do the same without exerting strain. Constipation can be a result of many factors which include an underlying disease, dehydration, and reduced fiber intake. Best gastro doctors in Mumbai evaluate the problem by performing blood and stool tests or even colonoscopy provided they feel the need for the same. Although medication can help to treat the problem, healthy lifestyle changes are necessary to alleviate the risks of the same.

Crohn’s disease- It is an inflammatory bowel disease marked by chronic inflammation in the digestive tract which can radiate deep into the bowel tissue leading to chronic pain and discomfort. The patient experiences symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, weight loss, diarrhea, dehydration, and malnutrition. Although the problem cannot be treated completely, it can be effectively managed with therapies and medication. The condition may be hereditary or a result of some immune disorder. The problem is usually detected before a person reaches 30 years of age, hence frequent health check-ups are a must.

Irritable bowel syndrome- it is a type of functional bowel disorder that is marked by severe diarrhea or constipation accompanied by severe pain. Although there is no specific cause, doctors suggest that the problem can be triggered by chronic gastrointestinal infection or food poisoning. The condition usually aggravates after meals. Stress and anxiety too can add to the problem. IBS is usually evaluated with the help of simple blood and stool tests. CT scan and Colonoscopy help in a more detailed assessment. Doctors usually suggest dietary modifications, however, if the problem persists, medication may also be prescribed.

Reviewed By

Dr. Purshottam Vashistha (Sr. Consultant - Gastroenterology & 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.