Bowel Disorders
Bowel disorders are conditions that often affect your small intestine. Some of them can also affect other parts of your digestive system, such as your large intestine.
Bowel disorders affect how your body digests and absorbs food. They can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as diarrhea or constipation. If left untreated, they can potentially lead to further health complications.
Types of bowel disorders -
Some common bowel disorders include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): affects both your small and large intestines. It can cause frequent gastrointestinal problems that interfere with your everyday life. It affects up to 11 percent of people around the world.
- Crohn’s disease: is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It’s also an autoimmune disorder in which your body attacks its own healthy tissues. It can damage tissues in your intestines, mouth, and anus.
- Celiac disease: is an autoimmune disorder in which gluten triggers a negative reaction. Gluten is a type of protein found in certain grains, including wheat, rye, and barley. If you eat gluten when you have celiac disease, your immune system responds by attacking the inner lining of your small intestine.
- Intestinal obstruction: occurs when your intestines become blocked. It can prevent your digestive system from processing food or passing stool properly.
Other medical problems can also lead to symptoms similar to these bowel disorders. For example, ulcers, infections, and intestinal cancer can cause similar symptoms. A proper diagnosis is key to getting the treatment you need.
Symptoms of bowel disorders -
Symptoms can vary from one bowel disorder and person to another. But some symptoms are relatively common across all types of bowel disorder. For example, you might experience:
- Discomfort or pain in your abdomen
- Gas and abdominal bloating
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
If you notice blood in your stool, book an appointment and consult immediately. Other symptoms of a potentially serious condition include fever and sudden weight loss.
Causes bowel disorders -
In many cases, the exact cause of bowel disorders is unknown. But certain risk factors may increase your risk, including:
- Smoking
- Environmental factors, such as diet
- Microbial and immunologic factors
- Family history of Crohn’s disease
- Being of Jewish descent
- Celiac disease is a genetic disorder. You’re more likely to develop it if you have a family history of the condition.
Most intestinal obstructions are caused by injuries, previous surgeries, hernias, or in some cases, cancer. Some medications also raise your risk of developing an intestinal obstruction.
Complications
Having metabolic syndrome can increase your risk of developing:
- Type 2 diabetes. If you don't make lifestyle changes to control your excess weight, you may develop insulin resistance, which can cause your blood sugar levels to rise. Eventually, insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes.
- Heart and blood vessel disease. High cholesterol and high blood pressure can contribute to the buildup of plaques in your arteries. These plaques can narrow and harden your arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
If you’re diagnosed with a bowel disorder, your short- and long-term outlook will depend on your condition, as well as how well your body responds to treatment.
In many cases, you can control symptoms and lower your risk of complications by following recommended treatment plan. If your symptoms don’t improve or they get worse over time, book an appointment and consult. They may need to adjust your treatment strategy.
