Digestive disorders can zap us of energy, create pain and discomfort, prevent our bodies from absorbing nutrients and cause us to dread every meal. Here at Functional and Metabolic Medicine of Colorado, we view a healthy digestive system as the basis of a healthy body.

While many people associate digestive disorders with symptoms like painful acid reflux or abdominal cramping, the reality is that a digestive system that is out of balance impacts the gut, brain and nervous system. In fact, many people with intolerances or allergies to gluten and lactose experience digestive anomalies, bodily pain and cognitive problems.

Getting answers to why a digestive disorder has been triggered is the first step to giving your body what it needs to heal.

Signs and Symptoms of Digestive Disorders

One of the reasons why it’s so important to speak with a doctor in person if you’re experiencing digestive distress is that there are many different digestive disorders. While there is often overlap with symptoms, the truth is that the digestive system is a large, complex system that can create many different types of symptoms based on the origin of the imbalance. Here’s a look at some of the most common symptoms tied to digestive disorders:

  • Bloating.
  • Gas.
  • Changes in bowel movements.
  • Stomach cramps.
  • Heartburn.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Constipation.
  • Upset stomach.
  • Weight gain.
  • Weight loss.
  • Heartburn
  • Incontinence
  • Nausea and vomiting.

Digestive disorders can be triggered by many things. In some cases, there are genetic components. However, food allergies and sensitivities are often behind digestive problems. It’s also possible that an imbalance between good and bad gut bacteria is to blame for a digestive problem. Finally, things like stress, pregnancy, infections and medications can all create a “perfect storm” that throws the gastrointestinal (GI) tract off balance. Many people are able to treat or manage digestive problems once they finally understand what is causing their symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

Gastrointestinal and digestive symptoms should never be ignored. It’s essential that you rule out any serious, acute and life-threatening conditions. It’s also important to treat digestive distress as early as possible when symptoms show up because any disruptions in the GI tract can lead to things like poor nutrient absorption and malnutrition that can lead to long-term health problems. Of course, the most important reason to see a doctor for GI distress is that you deserve to live a healthy, active life without the anxiety and pain that often accompany GI symptoms.

Causes of Digestive Conditions

Every person has a completely unique gut microbiome. The slightest change can bring on a whirlwind of negative symptoms. In many cases, digestive symptoms are tied to imbalances of good and bad bacteria in the gut. In other cases, common food allergies like gluten or lactose are behind digestive distress. The benefit of working with a functional medicine doctor is that you’ll have a chance to go over your health history to look for “change moments” that can help you to identify potential triggers for your digestive stress.

Risk Factors for Developing a Digestive Disorder

Anyone can develop a digestive disorder. However, factors like genetics, pregnancy and taking antibiotics can all increase your risk. Diet and lifestyle can also play roles. Some common risk factors for digestive conditions include:

  • Eating a low-fiber diet.
  • Eating a diet rich in processed foods.
  • Life stress.
  • Not getting enough exercise.
  • Taking certain medications like antibiotics that “kill off” good gut bacteria.
  • Straining or resisting during bowel movements.

Many digestive diseases are actually autoimmune diseases. A person struggling with digestive symptoms tied to Crohn’s disease or celiac disease experiences symptoms because the body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue when specific proteins pass through the digestive system after trigger foods are consumed. While some digestive problems can be fixed by balancing the gut, others require careful lifestyle management.

Complications That Can Occur With an Untreated Digestive Disorder

Many people live in mystery for years because they don’t realize that their digestive symptoms aren’t just caused by a “sensitive stomach.” Untreated digestive diseases can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, depression, hair loss, osteoporosis and dry skin. Conditions like GERD can actually increase your risk for cancer of the esophagus when left untreated. When autoimmune conditions like celiac disease are left untreated, they can lead to other autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Get Help From a Digestive Disorder Doctor Near Denver

Dr. Susan Sipay at Functional and Metabolic Medicine of Colorado in Littleton offers testing and treatments for a wide range of digestive conditions. Let us help you to heal your gut for a thriving, confident life. Call (720) 791-2911 or email sipaymd@functionalmetabolicmedicine.com today!