Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are widespread and can vary from mild discomfort to severe conditions that significantly impact daily life. Among the most common GI problems a gastroenterologist treats are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), peptic ulcer disease, gastroenteritis, and gallstones.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for these conditions is essential for maintaining digestive health and overall well-being. Here are the top 5 digestive issues treated by a gastroenterologist in the US.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by heartburn, acid reflux, and the regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus. This backflow of stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, leading to inflammation and discomfort. It is estimated that over 20 percent of Americans suffer from the GI condition.
Common symptoms of GERD include:
- A burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
- A sour taste in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- A chronic cough
Factors contributing to GERD include excess body fat percentage, hiatal hernia, and certain medications. Treatment from a gastroenterologist for GERD typically involves lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, elevating the head of the bed, and medications like antacids, H2-receptor blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a functional GI disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is unknown, but factors such as abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines, changes in gut bacteria, and heightened sensitivity to certain foods or stress may contribute to symptoms.
Management of IBS often involves the following:
- Dietary modifications, such as a low-FODMAP diet
- Stress reduction techniques
- Medications such as antispasmodics, laxatives, or antidepressants
- Lifestyle changes related to physical activity and sleep quality
Irritable bowel syndrome affects 10 to 15 percent of American adults in the United States.
Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcer disease refers to the development of open sores or ulcers on the inner lining of the stomach or upper small intestine (duodenum). These ulcers are commonly caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen.
More than 4 million individuals in the United States are impacted by peptic ulcers annually, with 1 out of every 10 people developing this condition at some point in their lives.
Symptoms of peptic ulcers include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
Treatment for peptic ulcer disease may involve antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori infection and acid-reducing medications such as proton pump inhibitors. Lifestyle changes are also important, such as modifying the diet and quitting smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It is also known as the stomach flu. Norovirus stands as the leading culprit behind viral gastroenteritis, accounting for the majority of cases. In the United States, this infectious virus is responsible for causing approximately 19 to 21 million instances of viral gastroenteritis each year.
Symptoms of gastroenteritis include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
- Fatigue
This condition is often transmitted through contaminated food or water, poor hygiene practices, or close contact with infected individuals. Treatment for gastroenteritis focuses on symptom management, including hydration, rest, over-the-counter medications (such as antiemetics or antidiarrheals), and addressing any underlying infections with appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications.
Gallstones
Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder due to an imbalance of bile components. These stones can vary in size and may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain after eating fatty foods, bloating, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Gallstones are a prevalent condition, impacting approximately 10 to 15 percent of the population in the United States, equating to nearly 25 million individuals. Of the nearly 1 million individuals diagnosed with gallstones annually, around a quarter require treatment, usually surgery.
Treatment for gallstones depends on the severity of symptoms and may include dietary modifications, such as a low-fat diet and medications to dissolve stones. In more severe cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder or a cholecystectomy is needed.
NYU Gastroenterologist
The gastroenterologists at the Department of Medicine at SUNY: Upstate Medical University offer comprehensive gastrointestinal services at our various locations, including
- Outpatient gastrointestinal consultations
- Inpatient gastrointestinal consultations
- Irritable bowel disease (IBD) care and ongoing management
- Liver disease treatment
- Research study protocol participation
From advanced diagnostics to treatment and monitoring, we have a highly skilled and compassionate staff dedicated to your GI health.
To schedule an appointment, please call our gastroenterology provider directly. You can also email the Department of Medicine at SUNY: Upstate Medical University at DeptMedicine@upstate.edu to find out more.
