The active rhythm of life, frequent stress and poor environmental conditions lead to the fact that the human gastrointestinal tract suffers first of all. It performs an important function that saturates the body with useful substances. Therefore, if there are disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract, you should consult a specialist and, if necessary, undergo a therapeutic course.

Anatomy and structure of the digestive system

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is considered a complex of organs that take part in the process of digestion and absorption useful substances body. The length of the digestive tract is at least 9 meters, it originates in the oral cavity and ends with the anal ring. The main sections of the gastrointestinal tract include:

mouth and pharynx;
esophagus;
stomach;
intestines.

Functions performed by the gastrointestinal tract

The structure of the gastrointestinal tract intestinal tract The human digestion process includes many stages, each of which performs specific actions in the process of digesting food. The main responsibilities of the gastrointestinal tract include:

Motor-mechanical activity. Food is broken down, moves through the esophagus and is eliminated from the body.
Secretory task. Proper and complete digestion occurs with the help of enzymes, bile and gastric juice.
Suction function. Allows the body to absorb essential elements from food.

Features of blood flow during digestion

The functions of the gastrointestinal tract directly depend on the activity of the blood supply to the digestive organs.

The functions of the human gastrointestinal tract directly depend on the nutritional activity of the organs. After eating food, the flow of blood to the esophagus increases, but only in those sections that are involved in the digestion process. Over time, the blood flow increases even more and remains at elevated state for 7 hours. This is due to the amount of food consumed and its chemical composition. After digestion and assimilation of the necessary elements, blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract decreases.

The role of nerves in food digestion

Under conditions of parasymptomatic and symptomatic innervation, the activity of the digestive section of the body is regulated. The anatomy of the distribution of nerves leads to the fact that in the first case there is an increase in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, and in the second there is a decrease in the level of digestion. In this case, the nerve signal conduction circuit involves 2-3 neurons, which are responsible for stimulating or inhibiting the digestion process.

Disturbances in one system that controls the process leads to disruption of digestive functions.
Main diseases of the digestive tract

Gastritis is a common disease of the digestive system.
Different parts of the gastrointestinal tract react differently to irritants, so there are many various pathologies, common among which are:
Gastritis of various origins. A healthy stomach has a solid layer of mucous membrane, which begins to collapse under the influence of irritants.
Colitis. The disease affects the intestinal area and leads to inflammation of its walls. If the pathology is not treated, heavy bleeding may develop and pose a threat to human life.
Viral type hepatitis. The affected area is the filter of the human body, i.e. the liver. They are usually provoked by various viruses that penetrate the body.
Cirrhosis of the liver. Chronic appearance a disease that leads to the inevitable death of the patient.
Ulcer. The integrity of the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract is compromised, which can lead to life-threatening complications.
Dysbacteriosis. In this case, there is a change in the normal intestinal microflora, which leads to problems in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Cholecystitis. Affected gallbladder, which leads to painful symptoms, nausea, and vomiting.
Appendicitis. The vermiform appendix of the cecum becomes inflamed, and the symptoms depend on the form of the disease.

What causes a digestive system disorder?

Frequent overeating can cause digestive disorders.
Normal operation A person’s gastrointestinal tract can be disrupted due to the following factors:
Unhealthy diet. Frequent overeating or fasting, unsystematic eating, rapid rhythm of food absorption, as well as imbalance of foods leads to the development various problems in departments digestive system.
Low level of ecology. Directly affects the quality of consumed products and water, which irritates the mucous membrane of the digestive system.
Addictions. Nicotine and alcohol do not help maintain healthy microflora in the body.
Medicines. The drugs must be taken with caution, since they directly affect the gastrointestinal tract.
Genetics. If relatives have abnormalities in digestion, then you need to pay Special attention to your health.
Poor level of sanitation. Cooking food requires compliance with a number of rules that help avoid the entry of harmful microorganisms into the body.
Endocrine disorders. They can also lead to serious gastrointestinal problems.

Symptoms characteristic of gastrointestinal disorders

Heartburn is a common symptom increased acidity in the digestive organ.
Unpleasant manifestations develop quite clearly, so it will not be difficult to suspect abnormalities in the functioning of the digestive system. A general range of signs includes:
Pain. It can develop as a result of increased intestinal work or with the development of an ulcer.
Heartburn. It is one of the most common symptoms of high acidity. The sensation spreads down the esophagus and is accompanied by a lump or a bursting sensation.
Chest pain. They indicate problems in the gastrointestinal tract, and are also similar to symptoms of cardiovascular abnormalities.
Belching. If a person has a sore stomach or duodenum, then it is felt unpleasant discharge gas
Dysphagia. The swallowing reflex does not work properly, causing food to enter the nose or trachea.
Nausea. Often observed with the development of gastritis or ulcers, as well as with poor bowel function.
Flatulence. Heaviness and swelling are observed in the peritoneum, which are accompanied by attacks of painful sensations.
Problematic chair. This includes problematic bowel movements and diarrhea, indicating the development of dysbiosis, ulcers or pancreatitis.

How is diagnosis carried out?

FEGDS allows you to identify pathologies of the mucous membrane of the digestive organs.
If unpleasant symptoms develop, a person is advised to seek help from a specialist to identify abnormalities early stage development. The functions of the gastrointestinal tract are checked using the following methods:
FEGDS. Allows you to study the mucous membrane of the esophagus, stomach and features of the duodenum. The technique is capable of identifying pathologies such as esophagitis, gastritis, and ulcers.
Colonoscopy. It is used to determine the causes that provoked problems in the colon.
Radiography. It is usually performed after injecting a barium solution into the esophagus, which does not affect the patient's health.
Capsule endoscopy. The patient swallows a capsule that contains a chamber and moves throughout the digestive system. The device allows you to identify abnormalities of the stomach and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract without discomfort.

The gastrointestinal tract (hereinafter referred to as the GIT) is the main organ system that ensures the normal functioning of the human body. Without food and water, no living creature can live more than a day. The gastrointestinal tract is the basis for processing food, transforming it into vital energy.

Gastrointestinal tract treatment and disorders in children

The main functions of the gastrointestinal tract are:

digestion of food;
extracting useful elements from it;
resorption of nutrients into the blood;
removal of unnecessary and undigested elements.

The gastrointestinal tract system consists of several sections. In turn, the departments consist of many auxiliary organs and glands. Their work is closely interconnected, ensuring the continuous movement of food throughout the body.

The functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is determined by external and internal factors. External ones include the feeling of hunger, smell, salivation, visualization of food. This is how the brain sends signals to the central nervous system about the need to “add fuel.” Internal factors begin with food entering the mouth. The process of processing, breaking down food into “necessary” and “extra” elements starts, and a signal of satiety is sent to the brain.

Main organs of the gastrointestinal tract

Oral cavity
Pharynx
Esophagus
Pancreas
Directly stomach
Liver
Gallbladder
Intestine (consists of colon and small intestine)
Anal hole.

Gastrointestinal diseases

More details

Treatment of the gastrointestinal tract

Today there is a certain list of drugs for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases in newborns and older children. Depending on the diagnosis, they can be combined or used separately. After surgery, supportive enzyme preparations, painkillers and symptomatic remedies. The age of the child and his diet play an important role. The younger the child, the milder and safer the effect of the drug should be.

Drugs for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases in children

Antidiarrheals:

with an astringent effect;
with adsorbing effect;
improving gastrointestinal motility;
herbal preparations;
intestinal antiseptics.

Antiemetics.
Means for normalizing intestinal microflora:

prebiotics;
probiotics;
symbiotics.

Medicines to reduce flatulence:

simethicone;
combination agents;
herbal remedies.

Enzyme preparations.
Laxatives:

to soften stool;
stimulating intestinal motility.

Gastrointestinal dysfunction in newborns

In the absence of pathologies in the development of the digestive system, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract occurs due to improperly organized food intake, or due to an incorrectly selected diet.

Main symptoms of gastrointestinal disorder:

vomit;
regurgitation;
irregular bowel movements.

The main factors provoking the violation are:

overfeeding;
underfeeding;
improperly selected nutrition;
excessive amount of air swallowed during feeding.

Problems with the gastrointestinal tract do not appear out of nowhere. Every disorder and pathology has its own cause. So, do not forget about the genetic factor. If close relatives of the child have chronic diseases organs of the digestive system, then such a child is at risk. With special care, you need to control the diet of such a baby, not overload his gastrointestinal tract, and introduce complementary foods on time. For any suspicious symptoms, be it vomiting or diarrhea, you should contact a pediatric gastroenterologist. The doctor will diagnose and prescribe treatment. Timely detection of gastrointestinal diseases will allow

The human gastrointestinal tract is an amazing and fragile organ system , closely interconnected. The failure of one organ will certainly cause the failure of another, and then a breakdown of the entire system.

The digestive tract can be compared to a food processing plant. If you take care of each machine, the plant will work properly. It’s the same with digestion - by supporting each organ and the body as a whole, an uninterrupted and efficient process of processing food into useful substances is ensured.

For the proper development of your child’s digestive system, you need to follow simple recommendations:

Introduce complementary foods on time - you should not “stuff” the child with everything from birth. Up to six months he only needs breast milk or a quality mixture. From 6 months, fruits, vegetables, and light cereals are carefully introduced, starting with one teaspoon per day.
If a child has problems with the gastrointestinal tract, strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations. Do not self-medicate, do not increase the dosage of medications, and get diagnosed on time. If a diet is prescribed for a child (or a nursing mother), follow it strictly. Most diseases can be successfully treated in childhood.
Don't overfeed your baby. It's better not to eat than to overeat. Do not overload the children's gastrointestinal tract - excess stress on the internal organs will not improve their health. If a child does not eat well, it means he is spending little energy. An active baby always has a good appetite.
Give preference to quality nutrition. Don't buy imitation products. Sour cream should be sour cream, and not a “sour cream product”; the juice should be natural, and not a “drink with added juice”. Yes, such food is 2 times cheaper, but such a product, at best, will not cause harm. There is no benefit from “imitation” food.
Forget about chips, carbonated sweet drinks, fast food, and forbid your child from eating such food. The above products are a direct path to gastritis. Today, every third schoolchild has problems with the gastrointestinal tract due to daily consumption of such tasty, but terrible junk food addictive.
Limit your sugar intake. 50 grams per day is the upper limit for an adult. Keep in mind that sugar today is contained in almost every purchased product - yogurt, mayonnaise, sauce, baked goods.

The gastrointestinal tract is the basis of the body’s vital functions. A healthy body will always have energy reserves and material to build healthy cells.

Lifestyle modern man often leads to the development of many diseases. In particular, low physical activity, poor and irregular nutrition, and an unfavorable environmental environment negatively affect the body, which over time becomes difficult to maintain its normal functioning.

This disease manifests itself in the form of an inflammatory process that covers the mucous membrane of the organ. In most cases, gastritis manifests itself in chronic form. Gastritis often causes the development of other gastric diseases. In case of gastritis, the patient may complain of the following symptoms:

feeling of heaviness in the stomach
vomit
nausea
pain in the stomach area

It is important to remember that many gastric pathologies, while occurring in remission, have virtually no signs of manifestation. However, destructive processes continue in the organ even when there are no symptoms.

Gastritis

There are many symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases!

In the case of gastritis, against the background of low acidity of the organ, various formations form on the lining of the stomach - tumors and polyps. Food is not digested sufficiently, the digestion process worsens, and the patient may suffer from anemia.

In case of illness. occurring at high acidity, hydrochloric acid corrodes the walls of the organ, erosions and ulcers form. In especially severe cases, a perforation of the stomach is possible - the formation of a hole, as a result of which the contents of the organ flow into the abdominal cavity.

Ulcer

Behind gastritis, on the list of stomach diseases, are ulcers and erosions, also called peptic ulcers. They represent damage that occurs on the mucous membrane of an organ, or. The difference between an ulcer and an erosion is the degree of tissue damage. In case of erosion, shallow damage to the mucous membrane occurs, without affecting the underlying tissues.

The main sign of ulcers is acute painful sensations, which haunt the patient both when his stomach is empty and some time after it is filled with food. Peptic ulcers are characterized by seasonal exacerbations.

Functional stomach disorder

Pathology of an organ that is not accompanied by changes in the integrity of its membrane. This disorder includes abnormal changes in the acidity of gastric juice, dyspepsia, various bowel movements, hypotension, and vomiting. In case of functional diseases, the following symptoms appear:

belching
general weakness
irritability
increase in temperature (in case of poisoning)

Most gastrointestinal pathologies have similar symptoms. In order to accurately determine the disease, you need to consult a gastroenterologist. This must be done in a timely manner, immediately after the slightest suspicion of the occurrence of pathology.

Intestinal diseases and their signs

Poor nutrition - main reason diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

The basis of various intestinal diseases is inflammation, which can be acute, chronic or infectious. During the development of an inflammatory phenomenon, not only one part of the intestine can be affected, but several at once. Depending on the location of the inflammation, the disease has a specific name:

enteritis
sigmoiditis
proctitis
colitis
typhlitis

As a result of inflammation, the mucous membrane of the affected part of the intestine becomes hyperemic, edematous, and discharge of various types may be produced: hemorrhagic, serous or purulent. In especially severe cases, often bleeding ulcers develop. If the development of the ulcer is not stopped, it will eventually cause perforation of the affected area and subsequent development of peritonitis. Intestinal pathologies negatively affect its functions:

Digestion worsens
absorption of nutrients stops
intestinal motility worsens
there is an increase

The main signs of pathologies are:

diarrhea
constipation
intestinal bleeding
loss of appetite

Depending on the location of the disease in the intestinal region, it has a specific name. In general, the symptoms of all diseases are similar and the main one is the occurrence of pain.

Symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases

Since almost all gastrointestinal diseases have fairly similar symptoms, it is necessary to consider each of them in more detail.

Nausea

Human intestines - schematically

This symptom can be defined as unpleasant feeling, which is accompanied increased salivation, general weakness, low blood pressure and is localized in the epigastric region. In the case of gastrointestinal diseases, this symptom is a reflex, which indicates irritation of the receptors in the stomach or bile ducts.

There are many reasons for the occurrence of this unpleasant symptom. It often accompanies diseases such as gastritis, ulcers, tumor disease, pancreatitis, etc.

Vomit

The process by which the contents of the stomach are removed through the mouth. If vomiting is caused as a result of pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, then its occurrence is associated with the same reasons as the previous symptom. Frequent vomiting poses a risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance in the body.

Belching

The process by which gases are released from the stomach through the oral cavity. Aerophagia - swallowing air while eating food can also cause belching. This symptom may indicate a deterioration in the functioning of the upper parts of the stomach and other diseases.

Bitterness in the mouth

Symptom of hepatic dyspepsia. Appears as a result of impaired motility of the gallbladder and excretory ducts, stomach, and duodenum. This symptom most often occurs with cholecystitis and. It is also possible for it to appear in cases of organ ulcers.

Abdominal pain

Pain as a symptom of gastrointestinal disease

This symptom may indicate the development of any disease of the gastrointestinal tract. If the cause lies in hollow organs - the stomach or intestines, then the occurrence of pain indicates a spasm of smooth muscles, or stretching of the walls of the organ.

This is usually observed in the case of blood flow disturbances, as well as in the presence of inflammation. When pathology affects a non-hollow organ - pancreas, etc., the appearance of pain indicates an abnormal increase in the size of this organ.

Diarrhea

Frequent bowel movements, during which an increase in the volume of feces is observed, as well as their dilution. The occurrence of diarrhea is associated with the rapid movement of food through the digestive tract, as a result of which the food does not have time to undergo normal processing, and the liquid does not have time to be absorbed normally. The most common cause is intestinal inflammation caused by viruses or bacteria.

In addition, the cause of diarrhea may be indigestion, which is observed with pancreatitis or cholestasis. In some cases, diarrhea is side effect some medicines.

Constipation

A condition of the intestines that makes it difficult to empty the bowel. The stool becomes harder, the patient suffers from pain and flatulence. As a rule, constipation indicates a deterioration in the motility of the large intestine. Constipation can also be caused. There are many types of constipation, each of which occurs due to a particular disease.

It also includes glands that produce secretions necessary for the full course of the digestion process.

The gastrointestinal tract is a very long (up to 10 m) tube, which is twisted in many places in the form of loops. It begins with the opening of the mouth and ends anus. The parts that make up the gastrointestinal tract smoothly pass into each other. These are the stomach, oral cavity, esophagus, pharynx, small intestine, colon and rectum.

The process of breaking down food and changing it chemically begins in the mouth. It is here that it is soaked in saliva and chewed.

Next, the crushed food enters the pharynx - tube irregular shape, which tapers downward and is slightly flattened at the end of the front part. By the way, the process of breathing occurs with the help of the pharynx, and therefore it also belongs to the respiratory system.

A swallowed bolus of food enters the esophagus - a narrow, more than twenty-centimeter tube. It connects the stomach and pharynx. Peristalsis of the esophagus helps the food bolus move on. As a result of active muscle contraction, within five seconds it ends up in the stomach - the wide part of the digestive canal. In an adult, this organ has a volume of 1.5 liters to 2.5 liters, and in men it is larger than in women. An empty stomach is not stretched; it is in a state of contraction. A bolus of food that gets into its upper part pushes the walls of the organ apart and moves towards the lower part with peristaltic, translational movements. During this transition, it is soaked, which is secreted by the glands of the stomach even before eating (reflexively) and from direct contact with it. Each new portion pushes the previous one further. The bolus of food remains in the stomach for three to ten hours, this time is enough for it to become saturated with the juice secreted by the glands of this organ.

Then, through the sphincter, which periodically opens, it enters what is the longest section of the digestive canal - up to six meters. It consists of the jejunum, duodenum and ileum. Here the processing of the food bolus with enzymes ends and the nutrients, and proteins, carbohydrates and fats are broken down. Thanks to the movements of the muscles of the small intestine, it is mixed and advanced.

The remaining substances and water continue to be absorbed in the colon. Masses of feces are formed in it, which enter and exit through the anal canal. It contains a plexus of veins, in the area of which such a common tract as hemorrhoids occurs.

In general, the causes of diseases of the digestive system are very diverse. Their distribution is directly dependent on social conditions, from the place of residence, from the patient’s age, his gender, from the dietary habits that have developed historically.

One of the main reasons is the modern rhythm of life. It has been noticed that city residents are more likely to suffer from intestinal problems. Also, those people whose professions are associated with emotional stress are more susceptible to them.

The second factor influencing the development of diseases in which the gastrointestinal tract suffers is a violation of the diet and quality of nutrition.

In addition, inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract is provoked by helminthiases and infectious diseases (hepatitis, dysentery, foodborne diseases).

Whatever the cause, adequate treatment should be carried out by a medical professional. Since self-medication often leads not to an improvement in the situation, but to its aggravation. After taking medications for a long time (including homemade) without medical supervision, acute inflammation stomach or colon can go into chronic stage. There is a high risk of development or damage to the digestive tract by fungi (for example, after long-term use of antibiotics).

The human body is very dependent on the supply of essential substances from the external environment with food. The functioning of organs and systems has a good reserve and is capable of providing long-term increased load, but is interrupted if energy balance is not maintained. And calories are formed only as a result of complex biochemical processes.

A person receives “reagents” for synthesis from food products. The best medicines cannot replace the natural process of nutrition through the stomach and deliver the substances necessary for life.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are one of the first areas of therapy in ancient medical manuscripts, along with help for injuries. How to treat individual symptoms was taught even under Hippocrates and Avicenna.

Terms and classifications

The term “gastrointestinal tract” is very old, taken from anatomy. It implies and justifies its name - the stomach and intestines. More precisely, let's say - from the place of attachment of the esophagus to the anus. This means that only the pathology of these organs should be considered diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Modern knowledge about the digestive system, a lot of facts have been accumulated about the inextricable connections between the work of the stomach, the causes of intestinal pathology and the functioning of other organs - the liver, gallbladder and ducts, pancreas. Today's medical professionals more often use the term “diseases of the digestive system”; the old name refers to its expanded concept.

The International Statistical Classification has identified a separate class of diseases and calls it “Diseases of the digestive organs.” However, let us explain the features of statistical accounting. Gastrointestinal diseases in this group exclude the pathology that we are accustomed to attributing to digestive problems:

The list of diseases would be incomplete without congenital anomalies, defects (for example, achalasia of the esophagus)

Therefore, when territories report a stable state of gastrointestinal morbidity, they separately take into account the growth of viral hepatitis, outbreaks intestinal infections, danger from cancerous degeneration and identified new cases of neoplasms.

According to statistics published by the Ministry of Health, last years the number of gastrointestinal diseases tends to decrease. Steadfastly remains in 4th–6th place in the total number after respiratory diseases, genitourinary system, skin (excluding injuries).

However, targeted studies and visits to medical institutions allow us to conclude that:

up to 60% of the adult population suffer from digestive system disorders, and in major cities and megacities - up to 95%;
among visits to therapists, gastrointestinal problems account for 37%;
from peptic ulcer Men under 50 years of age suffer 3 times more often than women:
ulcerative changes in the duodenum exceed those in the stomach by 8–10 times;
the population remains insufficiently informed about the possibilities of early detection and timely diagnosis malignant neoplasms stomach and intestines.

Data from attending physicians indicate that 4.5–5% of people in the Russian Federation die annually from diseases of the digestive system. In the structure of cancer mortality, colorectal cancer ranks second, and stomach cancer ranks third.

Doctors of various specialties treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: therapists, pediatricians, gastroenterologists, infectious disease specialists, oncologists, surgeons.

What happens in the human digestive tract

The main functions of the digestive system are:

motor-mechanical - allows you to crush, mix and move the food bolus along parts of the tract, remove toxins from the body;
secretory - responsible for the chemical processing of food particles with the connection of various enzymes found in the juices of interested organs;
suction - ensures selection and assimilation from the contents only needed by the body substances and liquids.

In recent years, another importance of the digestive organs has been proven - participation in the synthesis of certain hormones, elements immune system. Diseases of the stomach and intestines are caused by a malfunction of one or more areas.

Of particular importance is the sufficient functioning of the duodenum, liver, and pancreas. By anatomical structure these organs are very closely related to the gastrointestinal tract. Disruption of their work leads to dysfunction of the entire gastrointestinal tract.

The most important causes of gastrointestinal disorders

An important cause of diseases of the digestive system is poor nutrition. Main mistakes:

long breaks in food intake - disrupt the reflex mechanism for the production of digestive juices, allowing significant concentrations of enzymes to accumulate in the stomach and intestines without food intake, which causes dangerous damage to one’s own mucous membrane;
the predominance of fatty meat foods, fried and smoked dishes, hot seasonings and sauces - contributes to the failure of the formation and flow of bile into the intestines, congestion in the bladder and increases the risk of stone formation;
excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages - has a direct toxic effect on liver cells, the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, leads to increased consumption of enzymes, atrophic processes, contributes to atherosclerotic damage to blood vessels and impaired nutrition of the walls;
consuming foods of contrasting temperatures is an excessive irritant to the stomach; the habit of very hot drinks plays a role in the occurrence of gastritis.

Passion for vegetarianism damages the supply of essential amino acids obtained only from animal proteins, and therefore the building cell membranes the digestive organs themselves

As toxic substances with a damaging effect on the gastrointestinal tract can be called:

industrial contact with pesticides, alkalis, salts of heavy metals, concentrated acids, domestic and suicidal poisoning;
medications of the antibiotic class, some antifungals, cytostatics, hormonal drugs;
nicotine and drugs.

After treatment of the gastrointestinal tract antibacterial agents it is necessary to use additional means to restore beneficial microflora. Infectious diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract are caused by: different strains of Escherichia coli, staphylo- and streptococci, enterococci, Klebsiella, Proteus, salmonella, shigella, hepatitis viruses, herpes, helminths (ascariasis), amoebas, echinococci, lamblia.

High infection of the population with Helicobacter is considered one of the spreading factors chronic inflammation stomach (gastritis).

The penetration of infection through the stomach and intestines, the creation of a comfortable environment for living and reproduction is accompanied by damage to the entire organism, toxic effect on the brain, cells of the hematopoietic system. As a rule, it is possible to cure such diseases only with specific agents that can specifically destroy the infectious agent.

Abdominal injuries and wounds disrupt the blood supply to internal organs, stomach, and intestines. Ischemia is accompanied by vascular thrombosis, necrotic manifestations with rupture of sections of the intestine. The negative effects of ecology and ionizing radiation are among the first to disrupt the functioning of the secreting cells of the glandular epithelium. During treatment with chemotherapy and radiation of tumors various localizations the liver, intestines and stomach suffer.

Heredity among members of the same family is expressed in a predisposition to gene mutations when encountering risk factors, which is expressed in structural anomalies, functional underdevelopment, high sensitivity to other causes.

Ecological troubles in nature affect the stomach and intestines through low quality drinking water, increased intake of pesticides and nitrates from vegetables, and antibiotics, hormones, and harmful preservatives from meat products.

An irresistible stress load on a person can lead to digestive disorders. Spread of pathology of endocrine organs due to diabetes mellitus, diseases of the thyroid and parathyroid glands disrupt the regulation of the secretion of juices and enzymes.

Great importance attributed to violations of hygienic skills, sanitary illiteracy of children and adults, non-compliance with the rules of culinary processing and storage of food

What gastrointestinal diseases do people encounter most often?

Of the diseases caused by pathology of the stomach and intestines, the following pathologies should be noted as the most common diseases of inflammatory origin.

Gastritis

inflammation proceeds from a more favorable superficial inflammation to the formation of erosions and atrophy inner shell, are very different with high and low acidity, and dyspepsia is sure to occur.

Impaired motor function of the muscular layer of the stomach and sphincters

When the upper cardiac sphincter is weakened, the formation of gastroesophageal reflux disease with reverse reflux of acidic contents and damage to the esophagus is possible. If the contractility of the pyloric part changes, then pylorospasm or reflux of bile from the duodenum appears. This is how biliary reflux gastritis is formed.

Duodenitis

Duodenums, usually a complement and continuation of gastritis, somewhat change the nature of the symptoms. The pain becomes “late”, 1.5–2 hours after eating, and there is an admixture of bile in the vomit.

Gastroenteritis

Common name diseases of the stomach and intestines, most often caused by infectious genesis, poisoning with low-quality products. They occur acutely with high fever, nausea and vomiting, pain of various localizations, and diarrhea. Children develop dangerous symptom- dehydration.

Enterocolitis

Infectious and non-infectious lesions of the intestinal mucosa, possible manifestations dysentery, typhoid fever, cholera. Patients are bothered by spasmodic pain in the left or right half of the abdomen, false urges to the toilet (tenesmus), the temperature rises. The whole body suffers from intoxication.

Appendicitis

Local inflammation of the appendix has its own symptoms, but always requires differential diagnosis because of anatomical features location.

Haemorrhoids

A disease of the rectal veins that affects the majority of the adult population. In origin, a tendency to constipation, sedentary work, and difficult childbirth in women are important. Manifests severe pain in the anus, itching of the skin, bleeding during bowel movements. Lack of treatment leads to the transfer of inflammation from dilated veins to nearby tissues, pinching of venous nodes, formation of cracks in the rectal mucosa, and cancer.

Dysbacteriosis

It is not considered an independent disease, but due to the nature of digestive disorders, the condition needs correction, complementary therapy And special examination feces on the intestinal flora. It can be caused either by inflammation or by medications.

A decrease in the proportion of beneficial bifidobacteria and lactobacilli contributes to disruption of food digestion and activates opportunistic bacteria. Prolonged diarrhea is especially difficult for young children.

Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum

Persistent painful symptoms, seasonality and damage to the mucous membrane up to the muscular layer; signs of bleeding are found in the stool. Possible severe complications in the form of perforation of an ulcer in abdominal cavity or to neighboring organs. Manifested by dagger pains, state of shock patient.

Neoplasms of different localization

This includes polypous growths and cancer. Tumors form under the influence and against the background of various gastroenterological diseases. It is known that colorectal cancer is transformed from colon polyps, stomach cancer from atrophic gastritis.

If the tumor grows inward, then manifestations are detected by a mechanical obstruction to the movement of feces (constipation). With external growth (exophytic), symptoms are not detected for a long time or have general intestinal manifestations (vague pain, unstable stool).

Quite rare gastrointestinal diseases include:

Crohn's disease is a severe lesion of the entire digestive “tube” from the oral cavity to the rectum, in half of the cases - the ileum and rectum, and is classified as a hereditary autoimmune pathology in origin. The exact reason is unknown. Granulomatous growths grow throughout the entire thickness of the intestinal wall. The clinical manifestations are characterized by diarrhea, abdominal pain, and prolonged fever. It occurs as inflammation, spasm or perforation with the formation of fistula tracts.
Whipple's disease- it is believed that mostly men suffer infectious disease(the causative bacterium has been isolated), but researchers emphasize the role of an excessive perverted reaction of the immune system. It manifests itself as prolonged diarrhea, fever and general symptoms (joint pain, damage to the skin, heart, eyes, hearing, neurological signs).

In a hiatal hernia, a protrusion into the chest cavity forms the esophagus and the upper edge of the stomach

The role of esophageal pathology

On the one hand, the esophagus is considered in the gastrointestinal tract simply as a connecting tube from the mouth to the stomach, so the condition of the muscle base for “pushing” food matters. But on the other hand, the connection with the stomach causes changes in the mucous membrane in the lower sections and leads to local disease. The most frequently identified pathologies are those described below.

Esophagitis - inflammation with painful swallowing of liquid and solid food, a burning sensation in the epigastric region, heartburn, belching. The culprit is reflux of acid from the stomach. In severe cases, the disease is called gastroesophageal reflux.

Hiatal hernia - pathology caused by a violation of the localization of the esophagus, displacement of the lower border, protrusion from hiatus diaphragm. The disease can be inherited or develop as a result of long-term inflammatory processes in the esophagus and stomach. The main manifestation is reflux of food into the esophagus with heartburn, belching, pain, bloody vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment only surgically.

Barrett's esophagus is the leading cause of esophageal ademocarcinoma. It is detected by fibrogastroscopy after examining a biopsy specimen. A sign such as prolonged heartburn is the reason for mandatory examination. Typical detection is the growth of squamous epithelial tissue in place of the esophagus.

If detected, the affected areas are removed using a laser beam. It is still possible to prevent cancerous transformation.

Ulcerative non-infectious colitis of autoimmune etiology is attracting increasing attention due to its spread among children and adults

Serious secondary disorders of the gastrointestinal tract are caused by:

viral and non-infectious hepatitis;
cirrhosis with liver and renal failure;
diseases of the pancreas from functional disorders to pancreatitis and cancer;
cholecystitis and cholelithiasis.

Symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases

Therapy of digestive diseases requires taking into account the pathogenetic mechanisms of the occurrence of disorders. It is most correct to treat the gastrointestinal tract according to clinical syndromes.

Dyspepsia

Dyspepsia syndrome includes subjective symptoms. It is customary to distinguish between the gastric and intestinal types. Most stomach diseases are characterized by:

pain in the epigastric region of varying intensity, but always associated in time with food intake;
feeling of fullness in the stomach;
heartburn;
nausea and vomiting;
belching;
loss of appetite.

The combination of these symptoms depends on the nature of the disease, the stage of the process and the degree of functional impairment

So, according to the set of symptoms, dyspepsia is divided:

for reflux - manifested by a burning sensation behind the sternum, belching, heartburn, difficulty swallowing;
ulcer-like - the patient experiences intermittent “hungry” pain, worsening may occur at night (late pain);
dyskinetic - patients complain of heaviness in the epigastrium, a feeling of fullness in the stomach, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting;
systemic - characterized by bloating, rumbling in the intestines, stool disorders, possible painful spasms.

Dyspepsia of the human intestinal tract is accompanied by: flatulence, transfusion and rumbling in the intestines, spastic or bursting pain in the abdomen without constant localization, unstable stool. Symptoms occur when the function of the stomach and intestines is impaired. Observed in hypoacid gastritis, enterocolitis, tumors, adhesions, chronic pancreatitis, cholecystitis, hepatitis.

Signs of intestinal dyspepsia are constant, not related to feeding, more intense in the afternoon, and usually subside by night. They intensify when consuming dairy products and vegetables high in fiber (cabbage, beets). Patients attribute improvement in their condition to defecation and release of gases.

Hyperacid syndrome

Symptoms of gastrointestinal disease with increased acidity of gastric juice appear with gastritis, duodenitis, peptic ulcers, and are typical for heavy smokers. Increased concentration of hydrochloric acid associated with increased secretion, insufficient neutralization, slow evacuation of stomach contents into the duodenum.

Hyperacidity of the stomach is distinguished by the following symptoms:

heartburn on an empty stomach, after eating, at night;
belching sour;
increased appetite;
vomiting of sour contents;
pain in the epigastrium and right hypochondrium, “hungry”, late at night;
tendency to constipation due to spasm of the pylorus and slower evacuation of food masses.

Hypoacid syndrome

Occurs when the acidity of gastric juice decreases. It is observed with stomach ulcers, atrophic gastritis, cancer, gastrointestinal infections, chronic cholecystitis, anemia, and general exhaustion. Signs of hypoacidity:

poor appetite (in severe cases, weight loss);
intolerance to certain foods;
nausea;
flatulence;
“hungry” pain in the stomach;
diarrhea (the pyloric opening is constantly gaping, so the intestinal mucosa is irritated by undigested food).

The nature of the pain is different (spastic or bursting)

Enteral and colitic insufficiency syndrome

Manifested by intestinal and general symptoms. Intestinal symptoms include: pain around the navel 3-4 hours after eating, dyspepsia and dysbacteriosis. The stool is loose, foamy, foul-smelling several times a day, or constipation with atony in old age.

Common symptoms include:

weight loss due to increased appetite;
fatigue, insomnia, irritability;
skin manifestations (dryness, peeling, brittle nails, hair loss);
iron deficiency conditions, anemia;
hypovitaminosis with bleeding gums, stomatitis, blurred vision, petechial rash (lack of vitamins C, B2, PP, K).

General principles of treatment of gastrointestinal diseases

Treatment of the stomach and intestines is not complete without following a single scheme, which necessarily includes a diet, outside acute stage Exercise therapy and physiotherapy, if the symptoms and examination results do not raise concerns about cancerous degeneration.

Basic menu requirements:

Regardless of the nature of the pathology of the stomach or intestines, meals should be taken in small portions 5–6 times a day;
all irritants to the mucous membrane are excluded (alcohol, carbonated water, strong tea and coffee, fried and fatty foods, canned food, smoked foods and pickles);
the selection of a diet is carried out taking into account the type of gastric secretion of a particular patient; in an anacid state, stimulating dishes are allowed, in a hyperacid state they are prohibited;
in the first week of exacerbation, crushed, pureed food, liquid porridge with water are recommended;
expansion of the diet depends on the results of treatment of the stomach and intestines, and the patient’s well-being;
the possibility of consuming dairy products is decided individually;
It is necessary to prepare food in stewed, boiled and steamed form.

Dyskinesias and functional disorders of the stomach and intestines are effectively relieved physical therapy

Drug treatment

Upon receipt of a conclusion about the presence of Helicobacter in the stomach, a course of eradication with antibiotics and bismuth preparations is recommended. Its effectiveness is monitored by repeated studies.
To support the secretory function of the stomach, drugs such as Pepsin, gastric juice, Plantaglucid.

With increased acidity, gastric secretion blockers (proton pump inhibitors) and enveloping agents (Almagel, Denol, Hefal) are needed. To remove pain syndrome antispasmodics are prescribed (No-Shpa, Platyfillin). Cerucal helps with hypotonic damage to the stomach and intestines, relieves nausea, vomiting, and activates peristalsis.

To stimulate healing for stomach ulcers, Riboxin, Gastrofarm, Solcoseryl, and anabolic hormones are used. In case of chronic damage to the intestines and stomach with symptoms of vitamin deficiency and anemia, injections of vitamins and iron supplements are prescribed.

Moderate signs of bleeding indicate the involvement of a small-diameter vessel in the process; general anti-inflammatory therapy helps in eliminating it. In case of bloody vomiting and black stools with symptoms of blood loss and signs of obstruction, surgery with resection of the damaged part of the stomach or intestine is necessary.

Cancerous changes are treated with courses of chemotherapy and radiation. The extent of surgical intervention depends on the stage. Physiotherapeutic procedures can improve the regeneration of the epithelium of the stomach and intestines, relieve hypertension, and normalize motility.

For this we use:

electrophoresis with the introduction of the necessary medicine from the active electrode;
diadynamic currents;
phonophoresis.

Spa treatment with water and mud applications from natural sources helps to achieve long-term remission.

Phytotherapy

Treatment herbal remedies should be used after the elimination of acute symptoms of inflammation of the intestines and stomach. Decoctions of chamomile, yarrow, calendula, oak bark, and plantain have anti-inflammatory properties.

The enveloping effect on the stomach of oatmeal jelly and flaxseed decoction is beneficial

Diseases of the stomach and intestines are treated by specialists from clinics. Oncologists consider it necessary, in order to early diagnosis cancer, carry out ultrasonography and esophagogastroduodenoscopy for all persons over 40 years of age, even if there are no symptoms.

And if there are complaints about bowel function, try to examine the patient using colorectoscopy. This research is currently less accessible and is being conducted in specialized hospitals or private clinics. But a timely diagnosis is worth the cost.