Digestive Disorders

What are digestive disorders?

Digestive disorders are conditions involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, small and large intestines, and pancreas. The list of diseases and disorders that fall under the digestive disorder category are many, but the most common digestive disorders include:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Cancer
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Lactose intolerance
• Hiatal hernia
• Pancreatitis
• Peptic ulcers
• Diverticulitis
• Crohn’s disease

Digestive disorders may be mild or severe, and the symptoms may be short-term or long-lasting.

What are the signs and symptoms of digestive disorders?

From embarrassing gas to nausea, everyone experiences gastrointestinal problems from time to time. The severity and type of symptoms vary depending on the digestive disorder or disease you have, but may include:

• Bleeding
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Heartburn

Most digestive symptoms resolve on their own or with the use of over-the-counter remedies. If your symptoms persist or get worse, or if you have difficulty or pain when swallowing, episodes of choking, or you experience difficulty evacuating your bowels, call Coral Gables Executive Physicians to schedule an appointment.

How are digestive disorders diagnosed?

At Coral Gables Executive Physicians, digestive disorders are diagnosed through a medical history, physical examination, and comprehensive digestive stool analysis that evaluates digestion, absorption, gut flora, and the colonic environment for signs of parasites and infections. Your doctor recommends these tests if you have chronic gastrointestinal problems or a change in your bowel patterns.

Depending on your symptoms, you may also need more extensive diagnostic procedures including endoscopy, laboratory tests, and imaging for an accurate diagnosis.

How are digestive disorders treated?

In addition to digestive disorder diagnostic services, the team at Coral Gables Executive Physicians treat a variety of gastrointestinal problems. A personalized treatment plan is created to address your specific symptoms and needs. Whenever possible, the team chooses noninvasive treatment methods to provide symptom relief, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, and nutritional therapy.

If you’re experiencing discomfort or any of the signs and symptoms of a digestive disorder, give the practice a call to schedule an appointment. Coral Gables Executive Physicians offers same-day appointments and Saturday appointments for your convenience.