Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastrointestinal disorders are all of the diseases that pertain to the GI tract, which includes diseases of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, large intestine, and the colon.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the bowel movement throughout your intestines. When IBS is present in the GI tract, the contractions of the muscles lining the intestinal walls last longer and become stronger. This causes food to be moved through the intestines faster, which can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea. The cause is not yet known, but some factors that could lead to it may include certain foods, stress, and hormones.

Common symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain or cramping, a bloated feeling, gas, constipation/diarrhea, and or mucus in the stool. Some people may only experience mild symptoms, however they can be disabling. In certain cases they may require medical attention and treatment. IBS can be a chronic condition for most people. Sign and symptoms may worsen or get better over time and completely disappear. Since it’s not clear what the actual cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is, the focus of treatment is on relieving the symptoms. Doctors may suggest that you take fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal medications, eliminate foods high in gas, and some antibiotics. There are two medicines specifically used for the treatment of IBS: Alosetron (Lotronex) and Lubiprostone (Amitiza). Alosetron is a nerve receptor designed to relax the muscles in the colon and slow down the movement of waste through the lower bowel. Lubiprostone is for those who have IBS with constipation. It increases fluid secretion in your small intestine to help with easier bowel movements.

Another gastrointestinal disorder is Crohn’s Disease (CD). CD is a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines. It primarily causes ulcers of both the small and large intestines. There is currently no cure for Crohn’s Disease. The cause of Crohn’s Disease is unknown to scientists;...