What are the Signs & Symptoms of Intestinal Problems?

Overview

To say the digestive system has a lot going on would be an understatement. From the second you eat or drink something to the moment it leaves your body, there’s a chain reaction that sees many organs work in tandem to and try their best to run without any problems.

For some people though, intestinal problems can create discomfort, while some pain can be warning signs that there are issues worth going to a doctor to get checked out for. Arming yourself with relevant knowledge can help you, or someone you know, to not be so worried if you experience intestinal problems in your own life.

At Welbeck, we understand that every patient is different and will come through to our doors with differing symptoms. Whether it ends up seeing us treat a patient with IBS or identify underlying gastrointestinal conditions, our clinical team can assess and provide a roadmap from diagnosis to treatment.

We feel that when it comes to the intestines, it helps to pick up on common symptoms and know what to do. Here is some information to help you understand the signs and symptoms of intestinal problems.

Knowing What Problems are Intestinal

With so many variables, being able to pick up on symptoms relevant to the intestines can be beneficial. Common intestine problems you may have heard of include:

• Polyps

• Tumours

• Infections

• Intolerances (e.g. Crohn’s, Celiac)

• Ulcerative Colitis

• Diverticulitis

• Inguinal Hernia

• Obstruction

As you can see, the spectrum is broad when looking at this area of the body.

Knowing When You Have an Intestinal Problem

Some of the issues listed above can be quite difficult to diagnose, especially when looking at the likes of Diverticulitis. Symptoms that would warrant investigation include:

• Problems keeping food down

• Constipation

• Bloating

• Blood in the Stool

• Cramping

• The sensation of needing to go to the toilet

• Nausea

Symptoms like these can happen independently or in tandem.

Can Intestinal Problems Run in the Family?

Family history can play a minor role, primarily if a patient may have IBS, but generally, it isn’t a red flag.

What are the Warning Signs to see a Doctor About?

When someone experiences any of the symptoms listed above, they should not hold out on going to see their doctor.

Pain in the area could be a sign that someone has an intestinal infection that can be treated with antibiotics or something which warrants further investigation.

How are Intestinal Issues Diagnosed?

An individual would expect tests to be carried out, and to help get a clear picture of what is happening on the inside; it isn’t uncommon for a colonoscopy to be carried out as well.

What Happens After Intestinal Tests are Carried Out?

Doctors will be able to provide a diagnosis and create a treatment plan. In the case of something like Crohn’s disease or Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD), that would include changes in diet and minor lifestyle changes.

If there is an obstruction, or there is reason to believe a colectomy or resection needs to be carried out, a patient care plan has to be created.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about intestinal problems, please get in touch with us, and we’ll be happy to discuss how the clinical care team at Welbeck Digestive Health Clinic can help.