Staying Open-Minded About Your Healthcare

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I didn't know what I was going to do. After the devastation subsided, I decided to take a very standard, western approach to my healing. Although initial efforts were successful, my cancer recurred a few months later. I endured many additional months of treatment before I started focusing on myself. I decided it was time to incorporate complimentary alternative treatments into my healing regimen, including massage therapy. I can't even begin to tell you how much it changed my life. My healing became a process, instead of something I simply had to endure. I hope that the articles on my website can inspire you to stay open-minded about your own healthcare.

3 Gastrointestinal Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Health & Medical Blog

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food into small pieces, which helps the body absorb nutrients. The digestive system also provides a way to rid the body of waste. All of this is done through the body's gastrointestinal tract (GI), which starts at the mouth and goes through the throat, esophagus, stomach, intestines, and ends at the rectum and anus.

While the GI tract serves a very important purpose, it is often to blame for embarrassing symptoms, such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea. According to doctors who specialize in gastroenterology, there are times you should not ignore these unpleasant symptoms. As such, here are three gastrointestinal symptoms you should never ignore.

1. Chronic Constipation

Constipation occurs when you have not had a bowel movement in 3 or more days. Most people will experience constipation during their lifetime. However, if it seems like you are constantly having trouble with bowel movements, you probably have chronic constipation. 

If you have chronic constipation, it could cause the following problems:

  • Hemorrhoids: These swollen veins around the anus and rectum are extremely uncomfortable.
  • Anal fissure: These tears around the anus cause pain and bleeding.
  • Impaction: This is a result of hard stool that gets stuck in the intestines and causes cramping, vomiting, and pain.

If you struggle with chronic constipation, a gastroenterologist can help you find ways to treat it before it causes these kinds of problems.

2. Blood in the Stool

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common causes of blood in the stool. However, if you don't have those issues, it could be a sign of another kind of gastrointestinal problem. Some other reasons for blood in the stool include:

  • Peptic ulcers
  • Crohn's disease
  • Colon polyps

Blood in the stool could also be an early indication of a more serious condition, such as colon cancer or anal cancer. For this reason, if you notice blood in the stool you should see a gastroenterologist who will most likely recommend a colonoscopy.

3. Excessive Bloating

Bloating is usually caused by excessive gas in the stomach and intestines. Certain foods or indigestion can also cause bloating. However, if you feel like you experience excessive bloating, it may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or stomach infection.

Excessive bloating could also indicate a condition called gastroparesis in which the stomach doesn't empty as it should. Gastroenterology tests may be required for cases of excessive bloating, especially if it occurs along with other symptoms, such as intense pain, fever, vomiting, or bloody stools.


4 December 2020