Gastrointestinal Disorders

You may have heard the term Gastrointestinal as it refers to an internal system or disease before, but do you know how much of the human body is included in that system. The gastrointestinal system includes the mouth, pharynx (throat), esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. It also includes the auxiliary organs and functions such as salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Each of these assists by making digestive juices and enzymes that help the body digest food and liquids. The NIH estimates that between 60 and 70 million American’s have at least one GI disorder.

Given that this is such a complex system, the gastrointestinal disease can be characterized by so many different conditions and ailments. The team at Family Medicine Austin receives an ever-growing number of patients with gastrointestinal concerns. We can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to reduce discomfort and alleviate symptoms.

Examples of Gastrointestinal Symptoms

The gastrointestinal tract can be broken down into the upper and lower portions, each with its own unique conditions and diseases. Depending on how far along the tract you go, different organs and tissues can contribute or be affected by diseases. Find a list of possible conditions and symptoms below:

Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms Include:

Chest pain
Abdominal pain
Dyspepsia
Dysphagia
Halitosis
Hiccups
Nausea and vomiting
Rumination (unintentional regurgitation)

Lower GI Symptoms Include:

Constipation
Diarrhea
Gas and bloating
Abdominal pain
Rectal pain or bleeding

Types of Gastrointestinal Disorders and Disease

Although the list of potential disorders and disease extends well beyond what we have included below, the following are some of the most common gastrointestinal disorders that patients are diagnosed with. If you are unsure or have not yet been expertly diagnosed, it is important that you seek professional help to correct your condition. Gastrointestinal disease can quickly escalate, causing serious symptoms and side effects. GI diseases and disorders include:

Abdominal Adhesions
Acid Reflux
Appendicitis
Barrett’s Esophagus
Bowel Disorder (Fecal Incontinence)
Celiac Disease
Colon Polyps
Constipation
Crohn’s Disease
Diarrhea
Diverticulosis & Diverticulitis
Food Poisoning
Gallstones
Gas
Gastritis
Gastroparesis
GI Bleeding
Hemorrhoids
Inguinal Hernia
Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Lactose Intolerance
Liver Disease
Ménétrier’s Disease
Microscopic Colitis
Pancreatitis
Peptic Ulcers (Stomach Ulcers)
Proctitis
Short Bowel Syndrome
Ulcerative Colitis
Viral Gastroenteritis

Gastrointestinal Testing

At Family Medicine Austin, our team has access to a range of testing methods to accurately diagnose your gastrointestinal condition. We utilize a combination of lab tests and imaging to rule out the most common causes of these symptoms and gain insight into the cause. Lab tests include:

H.pylori testing
Food allergy panels
Stool samples

Abdominal Ultrasound can be used to view things like gallstones, other dangerous and painful formations, or blockages.

Treatment for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Given the wide range of potential conditions and causes, treatment will vary greatly depending on what you are experiencing. At Family Medicine Austin, we care for patients with conservative treatment in our clinic, or if needed, a referral can be given to a specialized gastroenterology practice for additional workup and symptom management.

Gastrointestinal Disorder Treatment Available in Austin, Texas

If you are suffering from one or more of the symptoms above, you need to have your condition assessed by a health professional. Ensuring your gastrointestinal tract is functioning properly is an integral part of your general health. Call our offices to speak with a member of our team or schedule a consultation online with the professionals at Family Medicine Austin today!