When it comes to a person’s digestive system, there are a number of issues that arise which can be quite uncomfortable to deal with such as gas, stomachaches, heartburn, acidity, and many more. Although many of these issues can be resolved on their own, others – especially chronic conditions – can cause disorders that affect your overall quality of life.
The digestive systems is in charge of breaking down the food into nutrients like fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. These are absorbed into the bloodstream, which the body uses as energy, and for repair and growth, while any unused materials are expelled as waste.
According to GI Alliance, “Each year 62 million Americans are diagnosed with a digestive disorder. The incidence and prevalence of most digestive diseases increase with age.” Moreover, for those that cannot be treated with at-home care may end up getting worse, and ask a result, they will need to seek out medical attention.
Here are 16 of the most common digestive disorders and diseases described below.
1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
If you’ve ever had heartburn or suffered from acid reflux more than two to three times a week, then you may actually have GERD. GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition where the stomach acid frequently flows back in the esophagus – the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. When left untreated or when this happens repeatedly, it can cause serious damage to the esophagus. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), around 20% of the U.S. population suffer from GERD. Although GERD treatment usually requires certain medications, and lifestyle and diet changes, other ways to lessen heartburn and acid reflux from occurring in the first place is to eat smaller meals, avoid particular foods like caffeine, spicy foods, citrus and other high acid foods, and not lying down for at least two hours after eating.
