Stomach aches, gas and heartburn can be uncomfortable but are not usually cause for concern. But some people experience these symptoms at a frequency or severity that affects their quality of life - 43 per cent of UK adults suffer from digestive discomfort and collectively digestive diseases are a factor in one in eight UK deaths.
“People often feel embarrassed talking about their symptoms and can be reluctant to ask questions or seek help,” says Dr Sarmed Sami, consultant gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London. “Digestive issues can be very debilitating and it’s important we create a space where people feel comfortable talking about their experience.”
Digestive issues can manifest as bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, acid reflux and abdominal pain. If symptoms are affecting a person’s quality of life, this might indicate a health problem and should be investigated.
There are a few gastrointestinal conditions of which Ashkenazi Jews are at higher risk, such as Crohn’s disease - two to four times more prevalent among Ashkenazi Jews compared to those of non-Jewish European ancestry. Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. People with IBD can experience diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss.
There are many other conditions that affect the digestive system:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition affecting the digestive system and often has no clear cause. It can fluctuate from mild to severe symptoms, including cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea and constipation.
Food intolerances are when symptoms occur after eating specific foods; common examples include intolerance to lactose or food additives. “There is no test for many food intolerances, so keeping a food diary to monitor meals and resulting symptoms can help identify the issue,” says Dr Sami.
Coeliac disease is a more serious condition caused by an adverse reaction to gluten. For people with coeliac disease, eating gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction that can damage the small intestine, causing diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss, anaemia, vitamin deficiency or other issues.
“Gluten intolerance is more common than coeliac disease. In gluten intolerance, there is no cell damage or inflammation. It’s more of a sensitivity and symptoms are usually less severe,” says Dr Sami.
Maintaining digestive health
Dietary and lifestyle changes can make a big difference to digestive health. For example, a diet high in fatty or processed foods, sugar and excessive alcohol can decrease gut health.
“Drinking plenty of fluids is beneficial. If you are experiencing digestive issues, it is best to avoid beverages that contribute to gas and bloating, such as carbonated and alcoholic drinks,” says Dr Sami. “People often don’t get enough fibre. Fibre is needed for normal functioning of the gut and can help with constipation.”
High levels of stress can slow or speed up digestion, leading to problems. Stress-reduction techniques and activities such as yoga and meditation may improve symptoms. Physical activity is also important — it can both relieve stress and stimulate normal contractions of the intestines.
“If your quality of life is being affected, or you experience worrying symptoms like blood in the stool, you should see a professional,” says Dr Sami. “Regular health screening is a great way to raise any concerns and identify issues before they progress.”
Evaluations generally begin with a complete medical history, physical exam and tests to rule out certain conditions.
After receiving the results, treatment will focus on relieving symptoms so you can live as normally as possible.
Mayo Clinic Healthcare, in Portland Place London, provides a comprehensive and streamlined approach to clinical assessment, in a private, comfortable and discreet environment. It is the front door to Mayo Clinic and over 4,000 physicians across every speciality. Mayo Clinic Healthcare gastroenterologists offer a wealth of expertise and advanced diagnostics to ensure a clear understanding of your condition, which is vital to tailoring effective treatments to you.
Learn more about Mayo Clinic Healthcare’s health services at mayoclinichealthcare.co.uk or call 020 7871 2575
