Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are very common in America. In fact, according to GI Alliance, more than 20 million Americans suffer from chronic gastrointestinal diseases, while 62 million Americans are diagnosed with new GI issues every year.

So, if you struggle with a GI disease or think that you may have one, you are certainly not alone. Read on to learn more from our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team.

What Are Gastrointestinal Diseases?

GI diseases negatively affect the gastrointestinal tract, which runs from the mouth to the anus.

During the body’s digestion, food and drink are broken down into nutrients that the body can absorb and use as energy. When a GI issue or disease occurs, it interferes with the digestive process, and can cause symptoms that range from mild to severe. Some of the most common GI issues are heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance. If you are experiencing the symptoms we’ve listed below, you likely have a GI disease.

Common GI Disease Symptoms

• Abdominal discomfort (bloating, pain or cramps)
• Unintentional weight loss
• Vomiting and nausea
• Acid reflux (heartburn)
• Diarrhea, constipation (or sometimes both)
• Fecal incontinence
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty swallowing

How Can I Be Diagnosed With a GI Disease?

If you believe you have a GI disease, visit your local gastroenterologist. When you visit, your symptoms will be reviewed and a physical exam and possibly blood tests will be conducted. After that, your GI healthcare team may order diagnostic tests that allow for closer examination of the throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), liver, biliary tract, pancreas and gallbladder—all of which can be affected in a GI disorder.

If you want to learn more about your gastrointestinal issues, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center.

When to See a Doctor

• A noticeable change in bowel habits
• Blood on or in the stool that is either bright or dark
• Unusual or persistent abdominal/gas pains
• Very narrow stool
• A feeling that the bowel has not completely emptied after passing stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Frequent or persistent nausea/vomiting
• Constant Fatigue
• Anemia (low blood count)

We can provide the non-emergency care that you need! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC team today.