Common Symptoms & Causes
Recognising Digestive Symptoms & Their Causes
Digestive health plays a vital role in overall wellbeing, yet many people overlook symptoms that could indicate serious gastrointestinal conditions. At Dr Chris Desmond’s practice, we are committed to helping you understand the signs and causes of digestive disorders, ensuring timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
Common Digestive Symptoms
Abdominal Pain: Persistent or recurring pain can indicate underlying issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, or Crohn’s disease.
Bloating: Feeling excessively full or gassy may be a sign of food intolerances, IBS, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Acid Reflux & Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest could signal gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or oesophageal disorders.
Nausea & Vomiting: Frequent nausea may be linked to gastritis, gastroparesis, or infections.
Irregular Bowel Habits: Constipation, diarrhoea, or alternating patterns can indicate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), IBS, or other conditions.
Rectal Bleeding: Blood in the stool can be a sign of haemorrhoids, diverticulitis, or colorectal cancer.
Potential Causes of Digestive Disorders
Dietary Factors: High-fat or spicy foods, excessive alcohol, and caffeine can trigger reflux and other digestive issues.
Chronic Conditions: Conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, and celiac disease can lead to persistent symptoms.
Infections: Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections can cause diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach pain.
Medications: Certain medications, including NSAIDs, can irritate the stomach lining.
Stress & Anxiety: Emotional stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and disrupt digestion.
Genetic Factors: A family history of digestive disorders can increase susceptibility to conditions like Crohn’s or colorectal cancer.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If your symptoms are bad, won’t go away, or keep getting worse, it’s time to get professional help. Dr. Chris Desmond is an expert in sorting out tricky gut problems with top-notch diagnostic tests and treatment plans tailored just for you.
Ready to Feel Better?
Don’t let tummy troubles keep you down. Whether it’s heartburn, pain, or something else, a Gastroscopy Sydney with Dr Chris Desmond can give you the answers you need to feel better.
