5 Common Digestive Problems and When to See a Doctor

Persistent digestive issues could be a warning sign that something more serious is going on within your gastrointestinal system. Ignoring ongoing problems can lead to complex complications that are more difficult to treat.

Gastro Center of Maryland specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic digestive health conditions, including celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and stomach ulcers.

Our board-certified gastroenterologists use the latest treatments to relieve your symptoms and prevent them from returning.

We also offer preventive health services to reduce your risk factors for potentially preventable digestive diseases like colon cancer. Below, we outline some common digestive symptoms to watch for that need medical attention.

5 digestive health issues that shouldn’t be ignored

While it’s common to experience some minor or occasional digestive upset from time to time due to diet changes, travel, or stress, it’s important to pay attention to potential warning signs of gastrointestinal conditions that may be serious and require a prompt diagnosis.

Here are five digestive-related symptoms you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Chronic acid reflux (heartburn)

Acid reflux describes the regurgitation of stomach acids into the upper digestive tract. Dysfunctional valves in the lower esophageal sphincter (LED) allow the acids to flow back out of the stomach, which can cause burning sensations in the chest and throat and leave a sour taste in the mouth.

Acid reflux that occurs several times a week for several months can be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If left untreated, GERD can damage tissues in the upper gastrointestinal tract and lead to cell changes that increase risk factors for esophageal cancer.

2. Persistent abdominal pain

Abdominal pain can show up as a stabbing, burning, or cramping sensation in the upper or lower abdomen. Pain may come and go or be constant. Sometimes pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, including bloating and gas.

Ongoing bouts of abdominal pain can be an indication that you have underlying conditions like Crohn’s disease or stomach ulcers.

3. Bowel movement changes

Changes in your bowel habits can be a symptom of several conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colon cancer.

Seek medical attention if you notice that you pass stool less often or more frequently than usual. You should also speak with our medical team if you notice blood in your stool or experience persistent constipation that makes passing stool difficult.

4. Unplanned weight loss

Rapid, unexplained weight loss can be a side effect of several gastrointestinal diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease.

Typically, medical experts recommend that you seek medical attention if you unintentionally lose more than 5% of your body weight within a 6- to 12-month period.

5. Difficult or painful swallowing

If you feel like food is constantly stuck in your throat or you experience other swallowing problems, you should meet with our gastroenterology team to find out why.

Dysphagia is a common swallowing disorder that’s linked to GERD. You can also develop dysphagia due to neurological disorders and esophageal cancer, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. Delaying treatment can lead to malnutrition, choking, and other potentially serious health issues.

If you have any of these symptoms or are concerned about your digestive health, our team is here to help. We use the latest technologies to diagnose the root cause of your symptoms and discuss all options for treatment to ensure you can make the most informed decisions moving forward.

Call the Gastro Center of Maryland office near you today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation or book an appointment online.