Gastro Problems
Gastro problems encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the digestive system, from the esophagus to the rectum. These include common issues like indigestion, gastritis, peptic ulcers, and functional disorders that cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. At Blume Health, our gastroenterology team provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for the full spectrum of digestive disorders.
Causes
- Diet and food sensitivities (spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection
- Medication side effects (NSAIDs, antibiotics, steroids)
- Stress and anxiety
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Gallbladder diseases
- Pancreatic disorders
- Food poisoning or intestinal infections
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Intestinal motility disorders
- Malabsorption disorders
- Anatomical abnormalities
Signs and Symptoms
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and gas
- Indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both)
- Blood in stool or black, tarry stools
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food
Diagnosis
Medical History and Physical Examination
Detailed discussion of symptoms, dietary habits, medication use, and personal and family medical history, along with a thorough physical examination.
Blood Tests
To check for infection, inflammation, anemia, liver function, celiac disease, and other conditions that may cause digestive symptoms.
Stool Tests
To check for infections, blood, inflammation markers, fat malabsorption, or abnormal bacteria in the digestive tract.
Breath Tests
To diagnose conditions such as lactose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or H. pylori infection.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed down the throat to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, and take biopsies if needed.
Colonoscopy
Similar to an endoscopy but used to examine the large intestine (colon) and rectum, and take biopsies if needed.
Imaging Studies
X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the digestive organs and detect abnormalities.
Treatment Options
Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications
Changes such as eating smaller, more frequent meals; avoiding trigger foods; managing stress; quitting smoking; limiting alcohol; and regular exercise can significantly improve many digestive symptoms.
Medications
Various medications may be prescribed depending on the specific condition, including antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, antibiotics for H. pylori, antispasmodics, laxatives, antidiarrheals, anti-inflammatory drugs, or probiotics.
Stress Management
Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation exercises can help manage digestive symptoms that are triggered or worsened by stress.
Specialized Treatments
For specific conditions, treatments might include enzyme replacement therapy, immunosuppressants, biologics, or targeted therapies.
Home Remedies
Ginger
Ginger tea or ginger supplements can help alleviate nausea, gas, and indigestion by promoting gastric emptying and reducing inflammation.
Peppermint
Peppermint tea or enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules may help with IBS symptoms, bloating, and gas by relaxing intestinal muscles.
Probiotics
Consuming yogurt, kefir, or other fermented foods with live beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestive symptoms.
Small, Frequent Meals
Eating smaller meals more frequently rather than large meals can ease digestion and reduce symptoms like bloating and indigestion.
Food Diary
Keeping a record of foods eaten and resulting symptoms can help identify trigger foods that worsen your specific digestive issues.
Preventive Care
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Stay well-hydrated
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid or limit trigger foods that cause digestive distress
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Don't smoke or use tobacco products
- Practice good food hygiene to prevent infections
- Take medications as prescribed and inform your doctor about any digestive side effects
- Get regular screenings as recommended by your doctor based on your age and risk factors
Surgical Options
Antireflux Surgery
For severe GERD that doesn't respond to medication, procedures like fundoplication can strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent acid reflux. Modern approaches include laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques.
Surgery for Complicated Ulcers
In cases of peptic ulcers that bleed, perforate, or cause obstruction, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damage or address complications.
Bowel Resection
Removal of damaged portions of the intestine may be necessary for severe inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal blockage, or certain cancers, with reconnection of the healthy segments.
Therapeutic Endoscopic Procedures
Various procedures performed during endoscopy, such as polyp removal, stricture dilation, stent placement, or treatment of bleeding lesions.
Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy)
Surgical removal of the gallbladder for gallstones or other gallbladder diseases that cause digestive symptoms. Typically performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.
Schedule a Consultation
If you're experiencing symptoms of gastro problems, our expert team is here to help you find the right treatment approach for your specific needs.