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Digestive diseases

 

Digestive diseases are disorders of the digestive tract, which is sometimes called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

In digestion, food and drink are broken down into small parts (called nutrients) that the body can absorb and use as energy and building blocks for cells.

The digestive tract is made up of the esophagus (food tube), stomach, large and small intestines, liver, pancreas, and the gallbladder.

Information

The first sign of problems in the digestive tract often includes one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Bleeding
  • Bloating
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Heartburn
  • Incontinence
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pain in the belly
  • Swallowing problems
  • Weight gain or loss

A digestive disease is any health problem that occurs in the digestive tract. Conditions may range from mild to serious. Some common problems include cancer , irritable bowel syndrome , and lactose intolerance .

Other digestive diseases include:

  • Gallstones , cholecystitis , and cholangitis
  • Rectal problems, such as anal fissure , hemorrhoids , proctitis , and rectal prolapse
  • Esophagus problems, such as stricture (narrowing) and achalasia
  • Liver problems, such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C , cirrhosis , liver failure, and autoimmune and alcoholic hepatitis
  • Pancreatitis and pancreatic pseudocyst
  • Intestinal problems, such as polyps and cancer, infections, celiac disease , Crohn disease , ulcerative colitis , diverticulitis , malabsorption , short bowel syndrome , and intestinal ischemia
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ), peptic ulcer disease, and hiatal hernia

Tests for digestive problems can include colonoscopy , upper GI endoscopy , capsule endoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and endoscopic ultrasound .

Many surgical procedures are performed on the digestive tract. These include procedures done using endoscopy, laparoscopy, and open surgery. Organ transplants can be performed on the liver, pancreas, and small intestine.

Many health care providers can help diagnose and treat digestive problems. A gastroenterologist is a physician specialist who has received extra training in the diagnosis and treatment of the digestive disorders. Other health care providers involved in the treatment of digestive diseases include:

  • Nurse practitioners (NPs) or physician assistants (PAs)
  • Nutritionists or dietitians
  • Primary care doctors
  • Radiologists
  • Surgeons

 

Open References

References

Bkope ET, Kellerman RD. The digestive system. In: Bope ET, ed. Conn's Current Therapy 2016 . Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 8.

Mayer EA. Functional gastrointestinal disorders. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine . 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 137.

 
  • Normal abdominal anatomy

    Normal abdominal anatomy - illustration

    The abdomen is the area of the body between the diaphragm and pelvis. Most of the organs of digestion are located in the abdomen.

    Normal abdominal anatomy

    illustration

    • Normal abdominal anatomy

      Normal abdominal anatomy - illustration

      The abdomen is the area of the body between the diaphragm and pelvis. Most of the organs of digestion are located in the abdomen.

      Normal abdominal anatomy

      illustration

    A Closer Look

     

      Talking to your MD

       

        Self Care

         

          Tests for Digestive diseases

           
             

            Review Date: 10/27/2015

            Reviewed By: Subodh K. Lal, MD, gastroenterologist with Gastrointestinal Specialists of Georgia, Austell, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

            The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

             
             
             

             

             

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