Chronic stomach issues can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making it difficult to enjoy meals or maintain daily activities without discomfort. From persistent bloating to severe abdominal pain, these conditions are often misunderstood and improperly managed. If you’re struggling with ongoing digestive discomfort, it may be time to seek professional help. Consulting a digestive doctor is the best way to diagnose and treat chronic stomach problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
In this article, we’ll explore how a digestive doctor plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing these conditions, and how seeking expert care can help you achieve long-lasting relief.
What Are Chronic Stomach Issues?
Chronic stomach issues refer to persistent or recurring symptoms in the digestive system that last for several weeks or even months. Common problems include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, and heartburn. While occasional digestive discomfort can result from dietary habits or stress, chronic conditions often require specialised care.
Some of the most common chronic stomach conditions include:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Crohn’s Disease
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Celiac Disease
The Role of a Digestive Doctor in Diagnosing Chronic Stomach Issues
Digestive doctors, also known as gastroenterologists, are specialists trained in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive tract. These experts perform a series of tests and evaluations to determine the root cause of stomach discomfort.
Here’s how a digestive doctor can help you find the answers and relief you need:
- Comprehensive Evaluation
Your digestive doctor will start by taking a thorough medical history and discussing your symptoms. Based on the initial assessment, they may recommend several diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, stool analysis, or imaging studies like an endoscopy or colonoscopy. - Accurate Diagnosis
Many chronic stomach issues present with similar symptoms, which is why it’s essential to get an accurate diagnosis. A digestive doctor is skilled at identifying specific conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, or GERD by using advanced diagnostic tools. - Customised Treatment Plan
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor will create a tailored treatment plan. This may include medications to reduce symptoms, lifestyle adjustments, and dietary changes. Some conditions, like Crohn’s disease, may require long-term management, while others, such as GERD, can often be controlled with medication and dietary changes.
How a Digestive Doctor Treats Chronic Conditions
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is one of the most common chronic digestive disorders. It affects the large intestine and can cause symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, triggers like stress, food sensitivities, and hormonal changes can worsen the condition.
A digestive doctor can help manage IBS by:
- Prescribing medications that target specific symptoms, such as antispasmodics for cramping or laxatives for constipation.
- Recommending dietary changes, including increasing fibre intake or eliminating trigger foods.
- Offering stress management techniques, as stress can exacerbate IBS symptoms.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to severe abdominal pain, fatigue, and malnutrition. This condition requires careful and ongoing management to prevent complications.
Your digestive doctor may suggest:
- Anti-inflammatory medications or immune system suppressants to control inflammation.
- Nutritional support to manage deficiencies caused by malabsorption.
- In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the digestive tract.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort. Left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophageal damage.
To treat GERD, a digestive doctor will often recommend:
- Medications to reduce stomach acid production, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers.
- Lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods (spicy or fatty foods), quitting smoking, and losing weight.
- In severe cases, surgery may be an option to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter.
When to See a Digestive Doctor
If you’ve been experiencing any of the following symptoms for an extended period, it’s important to consult a digestive doctor for proper evaluation:
- Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stool or vomiting
These symptoms can be indicative of serious digestive conditions that require medical attention. Early intervention can prevent complications and lead to better treatment outcomes.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling with chronic stomach issues and need professional care, don’t wait any longer to get relief. Dr. Vijay Nanda, a renowned digestive doctor at PGI Jalandhar, specialises in treating conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, GERD, and more. With his expertise and a comprehensive approach to digestive health, you can find the solution to your chronic stomach problems.
For stomach treatment in Jalandhar, schedule an appointment with Dr. Vijay Nanda today. Get expert care and start your journey toward a healthier digestive system.To get more information please contact us on : +918725064663
