GI Illnesses

Gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses can make you miserable, upsetting your digestive system and overall health. If you have GI problems, reach out to the board-certified Ringside Health physicians in Wellington, Florida. They offer services to the elite equestrian community and have the expertise and experience to diagnose your condition and provide personalized care. Book your appointment now by calling the staff or using the convenient online scheduler.

What are gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses?

Gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses comprise many disorders affecting the digestive tract, including the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. These conditions can disrupt normal digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination.

GI illnesses vary widely in severity, from mild discomfort to life-threatening diseases. Common examples include gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What are the symptoms of GI illnesses?

Symptoms of GI illnesses depend on your condition but generally include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Heartburn
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
  

You might also see blood in your stool, which can be bright red or dark, indicating potential bleeding in your GI tract.

What causes GI illnesses?

GI illnesses can stem from various sources, including infections, dietary problems, chronic conditions, lifestyle choices, medications, and genetics. For example, infections from viruses like norovirus, bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, and parasites can affect the digestive tract.

Dietary concerns, like food intolerances (such as lactose intolerance) or allergies, can also trigger symptoms. Chronic conditions, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease, often contribute to GI illnesses as well.

In addition, lifestyle factors like a poor diet, lack of exercise, and high stress levels can make these conditions worse. Some medications, like antibiotics or NSAIDs, can irritate the GI tract and lead to problems.

Genetics and family history can play significant roles in the development of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and celiac disease.

How are GI illnesses treated?

At RIngside Health, your treatment for GI illnesses depends on your diagnosis and its severity. Treatment options include:

Dietary changes

Avoid trigger foods, increase fiber intake, and eat a balanced diet.

Medications

Your provider could prescribe antibiotics for infections, antacids or proton pump inhibitors for acid-related problems, anti-inflammatory drugs for IBD, and antidiarrheal or laxatives for bowel regulation.

Hydration

Be sure to drink adequate fluids, especially if you’re experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.

Probiotics

Probiotic supplements and foods promote healthy gut bacteria.

Surgery

In severe cases, like advanced IBD or certain cancers, surgery will be necessary to cure a GI illness.

Lifestyle changes

Reducing stress, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly improve GI health.

Your provider can consult with you, reach a correct diagnosis, and provide personalized treatment. Call for an appointment now or book a telehealth appointment.