Digestive

Constipation is a common digestive disorder characterised by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools. It can cause discomfort, pain, and frustration, affecting millions worldwide. Understanding the different types of constipation is essential for selecting the most effective treatment approach.

An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the lining of the anus, causing pain and bleeding during bowel movements. The condition is common and can affect people of all ages, although it is more prevalent in infants and middle-aged adults. Anal fissures are typically categorised as acute or chronic, depending on their duration and healing process.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It is a functional disorder, meaning it does not cause damage to the digestive tract but rather involves problems with how the brain and gut work together. IBS is categorised into three main types based on the pattern of bowel movements: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D), and IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M).

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition characterised by open sores in the lining of the stomach, duodenum, or lower oesophagus. It is commonly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Symptoms include burning or gnawing stomach pain, and treatment typically involves antibiotics, acid-reducing medications, and lifestyle changes.

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in the gallbladder, causing severe pain and complications if they block the bile ducts. They form when there is an imbalance in the composition of bile and can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Treatment options depend on the severity and stage of the gallstone disease.

Dysentery is a gastrointestinal disorder characterised by bloody diarrhoea, typically caused by bacterial or parasitic infections. It can lead to severe dehydration and other complications if not properly managed, with symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, and a feeling of incomplete defecation. Prompt medical attention and treatment are essential for preventing the spread of infection and promoting recovery.

Food poisoning, also known as foodborne illness, is an infection or irritation of the digestive tract caused by contaminated food or drinks. It can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxins, and symptoms range from mild to severe. Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and in some cases, antibiotics or hospitalisation.

Lactose intolerance is a digestive condition marked by the inability to process lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition occurs due to a deficiency in the lactase enzyme, needed to break down lactose. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain after consuming lactose-containing foods or drinks. Lactose intolerance is distinct from a milk allergy and can affect people of all ages, with varying degrees of severity.

Encephalitis is a rare but serious condition characterised by inflammation of the brain, often caused by viral infections or autoimmune reactions. It can lead to severe symptoms and complications, including death, if left untreated. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing encephalitis effectively.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, epigastric pain, and regurgitation. GERD can lead to complications such as oesophagitis, Barrett's oesophagus, and even oesophageal cancer if left untreated. Lifestyle changes and medications can help manage the symptoms and prevent further damage to the oesophagus.