Gastrointestinal Diseases

What are gastrointestinal diseases?

Gastrointestinal diseases affect various parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, pancreas, liver, rectum, and gallbladder. 

Gastrointestinal diseases vary in symptoms and severity, but if you have digestive issues that affect your quality of life, treatment is essential. 

What are some common gastrointestinal diseases?

The LaSante Health Center team treats various gastrointestinal diseases, including:

Gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease refers to several conditions that cause inflammation, infection, or a blockage of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is located in the liver. It produces bile which aids in digestion.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

GERD causes stomach acid to repeatedly flow backward into the esophagus, causing chronic heartburn and esophageal damage. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that prevents acid from leaving the stomach, doesn’t close completely. 

Peptic ulcers

Peptic ulcers are open sores that form inside the lining of the stomach or small intestine. They’re often caused by a bacterial infection or the long-term use of over-the-counter pain medications.

Gastritis

Gastritis inflames the stomach lining, triggering digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Gastritis can be acute or chronic.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

IBD refers to two diseases –– Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. These conditions cause chronic inflammation of the GI tract that’s often debilitating.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS causes gastrointestinal issues like bloating, diarrhea, and gas. It’s chronic (incurable), like IBD, but doesn’t change bowel tissue or increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

Biliary tract disorders

Also known as biliary disease, these conditions affect the gallbladder, bile ducts, and other tissues responsible for bile production –– a fluid necessary for digestion. 

Pancreatitis 

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that produces hormones and digestive juices that assist with digestion and blood sugar control. 

Pancreatic diseases 

Pancreatic diseases damage, inflame or affect the pancreas’ function. Examples of pancreatic disease include pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and pancreatic cysts.

Many gastrointestinal diseases present similar symptoms, so finding the specific cause of your symptoms is crucial.

How are gastrointestinal diseases treated?

Treatment of gastrointestinal diseases depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. The LaSante Health Center team takes a conservative, integrative approach whenever possible. Often, healthy lifestyle changes, like rest, managing your stress levels, and drinking plenty of fluids, make a difference.

If you have a chronic condition, like GERD or IBD, you might benefit from prescription medication and dietary changes. These measures can prevent gastrointestinal diseases from worsening and preserve your GI health. 

If you have a potentially deadly disease, like pancreatic cancer, the team refers you to a nearby oncology center for treatment.

Call LaSante Health Center today to receive gastrointestinal disease treatment, or book your appointment online.