Health

15 Types of Digestive Disorders Symptoms and Treatment

• November 23, 2021

Overview

Digestive disorders are conditions that occur in the digestive tract. The complex and extensive system comprises:

• Mouth
• Esophagus
• Stomach
• Large intestine
• Small intestine
• Rectum
• Anus

The digestive system helps break down the component of the food. Absorb the essential nutrients and water from the food and remove the waste away from the body.

General Symptoms of Digestive Disorders

The digestive tract disorder symptoms may vary in different conditions. But the common symptoms of digestive tract disorders are:

• Abdominal discomfort (bloating, pain or cramps)
• Unintentional weight loss
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Acid reflux (heartburn)
• Diarrhea,
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty in swallowing

These symptoms may signal a more serious health condition. You may require medical attention or a change in lifestyle habits.

Causes of Digestive Disorders

Common causes of gastrointestinal problems include: 

1- A Low-Fiber Diet

Fiber is a plant-based substance that keeps you feeling full and helps improve digestion. Fiber is better for your gut health and keeps your intestinal microbe healthy. It is present in whole grains, legumes, beans, fruits, and vegetables. A low-fiber diet can cause constipation and other digestive disorders. However, doctors may recommend a low-fiber diet to treat diarrhea and cramping.

2- Drinking Little Water

Water is vital for your digestive health because it helps cleanse the gastrointestinal tract. It helps prevent constipation and softens the stool. Water aid in the breakdown of food and increases the absorption of nutrients in the GI tract.

Drinking little water can cause decreased absorption of nutrients and digestive disorders. You can increase your water intake and drink at least 8 glasses. You can also drink unsweetened coffee, tea, or sparkling water and avoid sugary drinks like soda.

3- Stress

‍ Stress affects your mental health as well as your digestive health, especially the gut microbiota. Short-term stress can cause loss of your appetite and slow down digestion, which causes inflammation, bloating, cramping, and changes in the microbiota. Long-term stress can trigger gastrointestinal (GI) issues, like:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion,
• An upset stomach

If stress is left untreated, it is converted into chronic stress, leading to more serious digestive disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome and other GI disorders.

4- Inactive Lifestyle

An inactive lifestyle can cause digestive disorders. Because when you sit down, your abdomen is compressed, which slows down digestion. It may lead to bloating, heartburn and constipation.

5- Consume Too Much Dairy Foods

Dairy products have potential health benefits, and humans have consumed them for 200,000-plus years. But consuming too much dairy can cause nausea, stomach pains, and diarrhea, even if you are not lactose intolerant. Because dairy products are a rich source of protein and fats that are difficult to digest sometimes. Drinking or consuming too much dairy too quickly can cause vomiting because your body cannot process and digest it quickly enough.

6- Aging

As we age, the activity of digestive glands decreases, affecting gut motility and reflux and causing digestive conditions. The risk of developing cancers related to the digestive system is high with growing age. Unfortunately, aging is unavoidable and adds another tendency for gastrointestinal disorders.

Digestive Disorders Symptoms and Treatment

Here are 15 types of digestive disorders that commonly occur with their symptoms and treatment.

• Gastritis
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Peptic Ulcer Disease
• Gastroenteritis
• Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn's Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Celiac Disease
• Chronic Diarrhea
• Diverticulitis
• Constipation
• Hemorrhoids
• Gallstones
• Lactose Intolerance

1- Gastritis

The stomach is protected by the mucus lining called the mucosa. Gastritis is the inflammation of the lining of the stomach. The common cause of gastritis is a bacterial infection caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Also, when elder patients use aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ponstan may suffer from gastritis. Alcohol abuse is also a root cause of gastritis.

Symptoms

The common symptoms of gastritis are:

• Abdominal pain (intermittent or constant burning, gripping, or gnawing pain).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Bloating, burping, and belching.

Treatment

Treatment of gastritis depends on its cause. Gastritis associated with H. pylori can be treated with antibiotics and antacids. Whereas gastritis due to aspirin, NSAIDs, and alcohol may require an acid suppressant. Also, the consumption of alcohol and medication should be stopped if responsible for gastritis.

2- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The esophagus is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. A ring of muscles, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), controls the acid content. When the LES is weak, stomach acid can leak back into your esophagus and cause heartburn.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is having acid reflux symptoms twice a week or more. Acid reflux or heartburn occurs when stomach contents and acids spill over into your esophagus. This condition is sometimes also called acid regurgitation.

The LES is sometimes open due to overeating or when there is too much pressure on your stomach. In conditions like obesity or pregnancy. Smoking, alcohol, and caffeine may also loosen the LES.

Symptoms

The common symptoms are:

• Heartburn.
• Chest pain.
• Regurgitation.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Difficulty with or pain when swallowing.
• Hoarseness of voice and sore throat.
• Cough.

Treatment

They can be GERD treated by:

• Lifestyle changes include weight loss, avoiding acid-stimulating foods (caffeine, alcohol, fried, fast foods, tomato sauce), and going to bed at least 2 hours after eating any food.
• Taking over-the-counter antacids to treat heartburn.
• Using H2 receptor blockers (Famotidine) or proton pump inhibitors (Omeprazole).

3- Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach, lower esophagus, or the first part of the small intestine. The stomach lining is protected by a mucus layer. H.pylori, alcoholism, long-term use of aspirin and NSAIDs, and aging cause the reduction of the mucus layer.

Symptoms

• Upper abdominal discomfort.
• Abdominal pain or bloating.
• Weight loss.
• Loss of appetite.
• Nausea.
• Bloody or dark stools.
• Vomiting.

Treatment

Depending on the underlying cause, you may be prescribed proton pump inhibitors, antibiotics, probiotics, or H2 receptor blockers. In rare cases, however, the doctor may recommend surgical removal of the ulcers.

4- Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, is an intestinal infection that may be viral or caused by food allergies. It may occur due to the following causes:

• Contagious gastroenteritis is spread or transmitted usually by the fecal-oral route or by eating or drinking contaminated foods.
• Non-contagious causes of gastroenteritis include food allergies, parasites, drugs, toxins, or the side effects of medications.

The most common causes of gastroenteritis are infectious such as Norovirus and Rotavirus. The number of cases of gastroenteritis disease is due to contagious reasons.

Symptoms

The common symptoms of stomach flu are:

• Watery diarrhea.
• Abdominal cramps.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Fever.

Treatment

Gastroenteritis will go after some time, but you lose fluids through diarrhea and vomiting. Prevent dehydration by drinking water and electrolyte drinks.

5- Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO is the excessive growth of bacteria in the small intestine or occurs when bacteria from the large intestine migrate to the small intestine. SIBO directly affects the gut, causing uncomfortable digestive issues. The leading cause of SIBO are:

• The abnormally slow movement of the digestive system.
• Low levels of stomach acid.
• Physical abnormalities of the small intestine.
• A weak immune system.

Symptoms

SIBO has symptoms like other digestive disorders people may experience:

• Stomach pain.
• Bloating.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Nausea.
• Unintentional weight loss.

Treatment

SIBO can be treated with antibiotic therapy and recommended dietary changes prescribed by the doctor. Also, the doctor may administer an intravenous (IV) drip to treat malnutrition and dehydration due to SIBO.

6- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a group of gastrointestinal conditions in which one experiences a combination of digestive discomforts like:

• Abdominal pain.
• Bloating.
• Cramps.
• Diarrhea or constipation.

The irritation may cause by several factors, like chemical or anatomical abnormalities and inflammation caused by gut microbiota. Some other risk factors include stress and consuming certain medicines and foods. The cause of IBS is still unknown. Possible causes include:

Muscle contractions in the intestine: The intestines' walls are lined with muscle layers that contract as they move food through your digestive tract. Contractions that are stronger and last longer than usual can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Weak intestinal contractions can slow food passage and lead to hard, dry stools.

Nervous system: Abnormalities in the nerves in your digestive system may cause you to experience pain, diarrhea, or constipation.

Severe infection: IBS can develop after severe diarrhea (gastroenteritis) caused by bacteria or a virus.

Early life stress: People exposed to stressful events, especially in childhood, tend to have more symptoms of IBS.

Changes in gut microbes: Examples include changes in bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which generally reside in the intestines and play a key role in health.

Symptoms of IBS can be triggered by:

Food: A food allergy rarely causes IBS. But eating or drinking certain foods or beverages can worsen IBS symptoms. It includes:

• Wheat.
• Dairy products.
• Citrus fruits.
• Beans.
• Milk.
• Cabbage.
• Carbonated drinks.

Stress: Most people with IBS experience worse or more frequent signs and symptoms during periods of increased stress.

Symptoms

The symptoms of IBS vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Pain, cramping, or bloating in the abdomen during bowel movements.
• Changes in stool appearance.
• Changes in the frequency of bowel movements.
• Persistent bloating.
• Fatigue and difficulty in sleeping.

Treatment

Treatment options for IBS depend on the type of IBS. The IBS-C with constipation, IBS-D with diarrhea, or IBS-Mixed, alternating diarrhea with constipation may include:

• A high or low-fiber diet.
• Avoiding stress.
• Eliminating FODMAP from your diet. FODMAPs are carbohydrates found in many vegetables poorly absorbed in the small intestine. They are fermented in the colon, causing symptoms.
• Using probiotics for IBS.

7- Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs in any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation primarily affects the ileum (the lower side of the small bowel). It causes ulceration in

• Any area of the small intestine.
• Colon
• Esophagus
• Stomach

The exact cause of Crohn's disease remains unknown. Several factors, such as heredity and a malfunctioning immune system, likely play a role in its development. Previously diet and stress were considered suspect. But, now doctors know these factors may provoke but not cause Crohn's disease.

Symptoms

Crohn's disease usually manifests slowly, and some symptoms worsen as the condition progresses. In the early stages of Crohn's disease, you may experience:

• Fever.
• Weight loss.
• Reduced appetite.
• Fatigue.
• Bloody stools.
• Abdominal cramps.
• Diarrhea.

The potentially severe symptoms appear much later. They include:

• Ulcers.
• Skin inflammation.
• Perianal fistulas.
• Anemia.

Treatment

The treatment starts after the diagnostic procedure, like endoscopies, X-rays, CT scans, and MRE. Treatment includes:

• Medication: Antidiarrheal drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators, antibiotics, and biologics to block inflammation.
• Change in diet: A diet with low impact on areas of the intestine that can reduce inflammation is recommended.
• Surgery: Elective surgery can be performed if the above two options do not work.

8- Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is one of the most common inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), like Crohn's disease. The condition has characterized by the inflammation of the inner lining of the colon and rectum. Sometimes it occurs in both the large intestine and rectum.

Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disorder when your immune system makes a mistake. Your immune system thinks food, good gut bacteria, and the cells that line your colon are the intruders. The white blood cells protect you from attacking your colon lining, which causes inflammation and ulcers.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of the condition include:

• Diarrhea.
• Bloodstains in the stool.
• Fever.
• Malnutrition.
• Weight loss.
• Stomach pain.
• Persistent abdominal sounds.

Many people with UC may experience other symptoms that include:

• Inflamed eyes.
• Mouth sores.
• Skin issues.
• Loss of appetite.
• Swelling in the joints.
• Joint pain.

Treatment

The best course of treatment will be decided based on the severity of the condition. The prescription medicines are:

• Mesalamine
• Sulfasalazine.
• Balsalazide or olsalazine.
• Steroids.
• Antibiotics.
• Probiotics.
• Biologic medications.

Sometimes surgery is performed to remove all or parts of the colon and rectum in severe cases.

9- Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack the intestinal lining if a person eats gluten-containing foods. Gluten is a protein in grains such as:

• Barley.
• Rye.
• Wheat.
• Hybrids.

Celiac disease is a grave condition that can cause damage to the intestines if left untreated.

Symptoms

The symptoms of celiac disease can include:

• Long-term diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Stools that are pale, smellier than usual, and float.
• Abdominal pain.
• Bloating.
• Gas.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.

The symptoms can be complicated if celiac disease is left untreated. It can lead to complications, such as:

• Malnutrition.
• Bone softening.
• Nervous system problems.
• Problems related to reproduction.

Treatment

Celiac disease has no known cure. But following a strict gluten-free diet can help reduce these symptoms. Also, multivitamin supplementation may help to follow a gluten-free diet lifelong.

10- Chronic Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea is a gastrointestinal condition in which the person passes watery, mushy, or loose stools that lasts more than 4 weeks. The most common cause of chronic diarrhea is IBS. Also, medications can cause chronic diarrhea, such as:

• Antibiotics.
• Painkillers (Ponstan).
• Diabetes (metformin).

Chronic diarrhea can result from several disorders, including:

• Celiac disease.
• Food intolerances (like lactose intolerance) and allergies.
• Crohn's disease.
• Ulcerative colitis.
• IBS.
• Intestinal infections such as C. difficile, Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and others.

Symptoms

Passing loss of watery stool for more than 4 weeks.

Treatment

The best treatment option is based on the identified underlying cause of diarrhea. It may include:

• Steroids.
• Antibiotics
• Pain killers.
• Immunosuppressants
• Antidiarrheal.

A specific diet and lifestyle changes may also help reduce symptoms of chronic diarrhea.

12- Diverticulitis

The condition is characterized by forming of small pouches called diverticula in the colon. Diverticulitis is a condition that refers to the inflammation of small pockets of the diverticula. They become swollen with waste and get infected. This can lead to mild to severe complications, including rectal bleeding.

It is common among older adults that have diverticula but no symptoms. The condition is called diverticulosis and rarely causes problems. But diverticulitis occurs in severe or advanced diverticulosis in an obese person. Obesity is the major risk factor for diverticulitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms may be minimal or include:

• Fever.
• Chills.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Painful abdominal cramps.
• Bloody stool.
• Rectal bleeding.

Treatment

‍ Diverticulitis can be treated in several ways, including:

• Changes in diet: The physician may suggest a liquid-only diet before following low-fiber foods after several days.
• Medication: The prescribed OTC pain medication is given for discomfort, and antibiotics for an infection
• Surgery includes needle drainage, bowel resection with a colostomy, or anastomosis.

13- Constipation

Constipation is a digestive condition in which the person passes hard, dry, and often painful stool. These bowel movements occur less frequently, usually fewer than three bowel movements a week. There are several causes of constipation, including:

• Not eating enough fiber, such as fruit, vegetables, and cereals.
• Not drinking enough fluids.
• Being inactive and not exercising regularly.
• Often ignoring the urge to go to the toilet.
• A change in the diet or daily routine.
• A side effect of medications like sedatives and antidepressants.
• Stress, anxiety, or depression.

Symptoms

Constipation is characterized by passing hard or small pellet-like stools or feeling the strain when passing motion.

Treatment

Constipation can be treated by changes in diet and lifestyle, including:

• Increased fiber and water intake.
• Regular exercise.
• Not ignoring urges of bowel movements.

If constipation persists, you can use laxatives as a temporary relief.

14- Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a common digestive condition characterized by bright red blood in the toilet bowl when you move your bowels. Hemorrhoids are an inflammation of the blood vessels at the end of your digestive tract that can be painful and itchy. Hemorrhoids are common, with 75% of people older than 45 having them.

The cause of hemorrhoids include:

• Obesity.
• Pregancy.
• A low-fiber diet.
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
• Regularly lifting heavy objects.
• Spend a lot of time sitting on the toilet.
• Straining during bowel movements.

Hemorrhoids can happen inside or outside the rectum. The type depends on where the swollen vein develops. Types include:

• External: Swollen veins form underneath the skin around the anus. External hemorrhoids can be itchy, painful, and bleed occasionally.
• Internal: Swollen veins from inside the rectum. Internal hemorrhoids may bleed, but they usually are not painful.
• Prolapsed: Both internal and external hemorrhoids can prolapse, meaning they stretch and bulge outside the anus. These hemorrhoids may bleed or cause pain.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Itchy anus.
• Hard lumps near the anus that feel sore or tender.
• Pain or ache in the anus, especially when you sit.
• Rectal bleeding.

Treatment

Hemorrhoids often disappear without treatment after some time. But symptoms like pain and bleeding may last one week or slightly longer. The following steps will ease symptoms:

• Apply over-the-counter medications containing lidocaine, witch hazel, or hydrocortisone to the affected area.
• Drink more water.
• Increase fiber intake through diet and supplements. Take at least 20-35 grams of daily fiber intake.
• Soak in a warm bath for 10 to 20 minutes a day.
• Soften stool by taking laxatives.
• Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation.
• Use toilet paper with lotion or flushable wet wipes to gently pat and clean your bottom after pooping. You can also use a tissue or washcloth moistened with water.

14- Gall Stones

The gallbladder is a small sac-like organ attached to your intestine that produces, store, and release bile. Bile is a yellowish-green fluid that aids in the digestion of fat. Bile can form into small, hard deposits called gallstones.

Gallstones are lumps that develop in the bile ducts or gallbladder. They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. Even though the exact cause is not well known, gallstones usually form when:

• There is too much cholesterol in your bile. Your body needs bile for digestion, and it also dissolves cholesterol. But when it cannot do that, extra cholesterol might form stones.
• There is too much bilirubin in your bile. Conditions like cirrhosis, infections, and blood disorders can cause your liver to make too much bilirubin.
• Your gallbladder does not empty completely. This can make your bile very concentrated.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Pain in your upper belly, often on the right, just under your ribs.
• Pain in your right shoulder or back.
• An upset stomach.
• Vomiting.
• Other digestive problems include indigestion, heartburn, and gas.
• Fever.
• Chills.
• Yellow skin or eyes.
• Dark urine and light-colored poop.

Treatment

Depending on symptoms, the gallstone treatment may include surgical removal of the gallbladder or a procedure whereby a medical professional will remove gallstones from the bile duct.

15- Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a digestive condition in which a person does not fully digest milk sugar (lactose). After eating or drinking dairy products, they have diarrhea, gas, and bloating. The condition is also called lactose malabsorption. It is usually harmless, but its symptoms are uncomfortable.

The cause of this condition is too little production of enzyme produced in your small intestine (lactase). You can have low levels of lactase and still be able to digest milk products. But if your levels are too low, you become lactose intolerant. You may experience the symptoms after you eat or drink dairy.

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Diarrhea.
• Bloating.
• Nausea.
• Stomach cramps.
• Vomiting.
• Gas.

Treatment

Treatments for lactose intolerance include enzyme supplements to help break down lactose and replacing regular milk with lactose-free or dairy-free milk.