The Most Common Diseases Of The Digestive System

There are diseases of the digestive system that appear and disappear on their own,  almost as if they were temporary symptoms. For example, some cases of food poisoning tend to appear for 24 hours and then disappear.

However, there are others that are chronic, such as colon cancer, whose symptoms do not become visible until it causes serious health complications. Although research has made progress in its discovery, it continues to be one of the most widespread tumors.

Part of the reason why there are so many diseases of the digestive system is that the digestive tract is varied throughout its journey and involves different organs:  from the mouth with its own microenvironment to the colon and its associated glands such as the pancreas which also perform hormonal functions by secreting insulin.

What are the most common diseases of the digestive system? Read on to find out!

1. Gastrointestinal infection

Gastrointestinal infection is a common disease among children. These are almost always infections that they get from contact with other children, especially in schools.

The biggest danger of diarrhea in childhood is dehydration. When gastrointestinal infections last for a long time and are aggressive with large amounts of vomit along with thin stools, water is excreted from the body and takes electrolytes with it.

The basic treatment for gastrointestinal infection is thus hydration. Parents should offer fluids to children in the proper way without promoting nausea and by giving salt too, especially sodium and potassium.

In some countries, diarrhea is a major cause of death and a public health problem  associated with poor hygiene. Simple hygiene, which can include washing hands, is already a powerful barrier against the microorganisms that cause gastrointestinal infections.

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GØRS) is an unpleasant condition in which  stomach acid rises up to the esophagus. Patients often complain of chest pain, heartburn and even coughing.

Hydrochloric acid from the stomach should only be in the stomach so that it does not cause damage to other parts of the body. When it moves to other organs, it harms them, and this is what happens to the esophagus, which is not prepared to receive that acid.

It is common for GØRS to be associated with gastritis and diaphragmatic hernia. Gastric or peptic ulcer: It is an inflammation of the lining of the abdomen and a hernia of the abdomen.

To treat this disorder, doctors often prescribe antacids and change their diet. The patient should reduce the amount of food they eat at each meal and eat approximately every four hours.

3. Hemorrhoids

In adults, hemorrhoids are one of the most common diseases of the digestive system. They are veins in the rectum that become swollen, which means that they lose their shape and become inflamed until they bleed.

A common symptom is actually the presence of blood in the stool. The person has a bowel movement and can see small drops of blood in the toilet. When a person suffers from inflammation from hemorrhoids, they may also experience itching in the anus.

Many times a doctor can observe hemorrhoids with the naked eye and the diagnosis is quick. In other cases, they sit inside, so the doctor performs an observation with a device in a procedure called rectoscopy or anoscopy.

4. Colon cancer is one of the most common diseases of the digestive system

Colon cancer is a serious disorder and is unfortunately very common. After lung and breast cancer  , it is the third most prevalent tumor in the world. In some countries, it is in second place if you combine the number of women and men with the diagnosis.

Although it is at the age of 70 that most cases occur, the probability and risk increase from the age of 50. This is why  doctors recommend having regular colonoscopies from that age  to detect polyps that they can remove before they become malignant.

Today, there are various treatment options for colon cancer. However, it is still a serious problem. The basis of treatment is actually early detection. For this reason, campaigns that encourage endoscopies are essential.

The most common diseases of the digestive system can be treated

Diarrhea, gastroesophageal reflux disease, hemorrhoids and colon cancer are diseases of the digestive system that can be treated. Science has evolved enough for us to be able to identify appropriate forms of contraception and treatment.

Individual and social responsibility are important to them all. Proper hygiene, healthy eating, adequate knowledge of planning early doctor visits and performing screening are the tools we have at our disposal to combat the most common diseases of the digestive system.