Gastroenterology is a medical field that focuses on the digestive system and its disorders. Digestion starts in the mouth and finishes when nutrients and water are absorbed into the body through the walls of the intestines. The small intestine absorbs most of what we eat, while the large intestine absorbs some vitamins that remain undigested in our food.
As such, gastroenterologists are experts on the human digestive system. This includes such common conditions as acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome. There are also many other embarrassing disorders associated with the gut, so doctors in this field need to deal with these as well. This article looks at some of the common conditions that may require you to see a gastroenterologist in Lima. Read on for more information.
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Reflux Disease
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common digestive disorder. As the name suggests, it occurs when acid from your stomach leaks up into your food pipe where it doesn’t belong. Patients with GERD often experience heartburn, which happens when stomach acid comes into contact with the lining of your esophagus, producing a burning sensation. This may also occur at night, so you may wake up with a sore throat. GERD may be caused by certain foods, lifestyle factors, or even stress. Diet changes are often recommended to treat reflux disease sufferers. The result is usually heartburn and indigestion. The standard treatment for this condition is a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medication.
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Stomach ulcers
In the stomach, an acid environment helps kill pathogenic bacteria. It also assists with the digestion of food. If that acid gets too high, it can lead to a painful condition called gastritis, or inflammation of your stomach lining. In severe cases, your stomach lining can break down, leading to an ulcer. Stomach ulcers are divided into two types: superficial and deep. Superficial ulcers are the more common form of gastritis, usually caused by an infection with Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria responsible for most peptic ulcers. The conventional course of treatment includes antibiotics and acid suppressants. Deep ulcers are more severe because there’s bleeding in the lining of your digestive tract. It typically requires medications to neutralize stomach acids.
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Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine, also known as the colon. The symptoms are likely to include cramps, reduced appetite, abdominal pain, and different types of diarrhea. Sometimes patients with IBS have constipation, but the causes of this disorder are not fully understood. Stress and certain foods can make it worse. Gastroenterologists advise that you follow a balanced diet based on fruits and vegetables, lots of water, and avoiding high-fat foods. The standard treatment for IBS consists of medications to alleviate the symptoms.
In summary, gastroenterologists are medical experts that specialize in conditions affecting the digestive system. They deal with irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, and reflux disease. If you have these conditions, make sure you see a gastroenterologist for treatment.
