Most of us have experienced some kind of gastrointestinal distress at some point in our lives, but for some people, digestive issues are more chronic and problematic. Unfortunately, digestive issues are very common among the general public, but the good news is, there are steps you can take to make these conditions more manageable.
The Most Common Digestive Issues
These are some of the most common digestive issues faced by people in the United States:
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Most people experience heartburn at least occasionally, but if you feel heartburn-like effects on a regular basis, you may have GERD. If left uncontrolled, GERD can wear down the lining of your esophagus and present much more complex health challenges.
- Chronic constipation. Chronic constipation happens when you have fewer than three bowel movements a week for three weeks or longer. Typically, stools are hard and challenging to pass in this condition. It may be a result of lifestyle choices (including not eating enough fiber) or more complex underlying causes.
- Chronic diarrhea. Chronic diarrhea is never pleasant, causing loose stool, intense urgency, and uncomfortable symptoms. There are many potential causes for this recurring issue, such as a natural inability to absorb certain types of food or another underlying disease.
- Ulcers. Peptic ulcers are typically caused by a certain type of bacteria in your stomach or the overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It was previously thought that ulcers were a result of poor diet or excessive stress, but this is no longer believed to be the case.
- Gastroenteritis. This condition causes a host of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, headache, or even fever – hence why it’s sometimes called the “stomach flu” or a “stomach bug.” However, if you’re looking for immediate relief and rapid recovery, the option of an IV for stomach flu in Los Angeles can be an excellent choice. This treatment can replace the fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea, rebalance electrolytes, and deliver essential vitamins to help boost your immune system, all while you rest and recover in the comfort of your own home.
This is typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection in the digestive system and usually lasts only a few days. If symptoms persist, you’ll need to call a doctor. - Hemorrhoids. As many as 75 percent of people aged 45 and older experience hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are essentially swollen rectal veins, which can range from mildly uncomfortable to terribly painful. Often, hemorrhoids are a result of straining during bowel movements, and they can be treated with over the counter (OTC) topical medicines.
How to Avoid Digestive Issues
Most digestive issues – especially minor ones – can be prevented and managed easily.
These are some of the best strategies to help you on this journey:
- Eat a wide range of foods. Try to eat a wide range of different foods. Different foods have different strengths and weaknesses for our digestive system, and we can support better overall health by diversifying our intake.
- Focus on vegetables, fruits, and other sources of fiber. Vegetables, fruits, complex carbohydrates, and whole grains are excellent sources of fiber. Our bodies need both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber to produce solid waste and pass that waste easily; accordingly, increasing your dietary fiber intake can eliminate or minimize most issues related to constipation or diarrhea.
- Drink plenty of water. Water is also an essential ingredient for healthy digestion. You should aim to drink clear water throughout the day to stay adequately hydrated. It’s even more important if you’re currently experiencing diarrhea.
- Exercise. Physical exercise gets the blood flowing and kicks your digestive system into action. If you struggle with bowel movement consistency, consider getting up and going for a run.
- Practice good hygiene. Ulcers, stomach bugs, and other digestive issues are sometimes a result of infection. You can therefore improve your health by practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly.
- Avoid irritating foods and drinks. Certain foods and drinks can trigger your digestive issues, such as carbonated beverages or spicy foods. When you learn your triggers, work to avoid them.
- Stop smoking and drinking. Smoking and drinking are both bad for your digestive health, so consider cutting them out entirely.
- Take antacid tablets as needed. Antacid tablets are designed to counteract the acid in your stomach, ultimately soothing an upset stomach and minimizing the effects of GERD or heartburn. These tablets are typically available over the counter (OTC), but it’s still important to follow the directions carefully when taking this medication.
- Use a bidet. Using a bidet, rather than toilet paper, can prevent hemorrhoids and make your bowel movements much more comfortable.
- Know when to see a doctor. If you’ve tried some of these tactics to no avail, or if your symptoms are particularly worrying, it’s important to contact a doctor. Your doctor can recommend more appropriate (and typically more powerful) strategies and medications.
If you follow all of these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to better digestive health. Whether you’re currently suffering from a chronic digestive ailment or you’re just interested in better overall health, improving your lifestyle is going to improve the quality of your life.
