Diseases of the digestive system. The most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - symptoms, treatment, prevention. Bitterness in the mouth

Every day, every person is faced with a variety of aggressive substances, which, under favorable circumstances, can attack the body and cause the development of a variety of health problems. Pathogens of various diseases can penetrate the skin, mucous membranes, organs respiratory system etc. Sometimes they enter the body with food or water. In this case, the person may develop infections digestive system, the symptoms and treatment of which we will now discuss in a little more detail.

Infections of the digestive system can occur when consuming insufficiently pure vegetables, berries or fruits. Also, such diseases can develop due to eating low-quality foods or drinking contaminated water. Basic living environment pathogenic bacteria- this is the intestines, accordingly, doctors also classify the diseases caused by them as intestinal infections.

Symptoms of a digestive system infection

The manifestations of digestive tract infections largely depend on the type of pathogen. However, there are a number common features which may indicate their development: weakness, deterioration (disappearance) of appetite, as well as painful sensations in a stomach.

The influence of aggressive microorganisms in the digestive tract does not become noticeable immediately; up to fifty hours may pass before the first symptoms of the disease appear. But in most cases they occur approximately twelve hours after the infection occurred.

A slight discomfort is quickly replaced by severe pain in the abdomen. The patient is bothered by vomiting and frequent loose stools, the causes of which are all due to the same activity of microorganisms. Infectious lesions are usually accompanied by fever and chills, excessive sweating and other manifestations of fever. Loss of consciousness may also occur.

The listed symptoms indicate the development of severe intoxication of the body, which is explained by the activity of pathogenic bacteria. Combination frequent vomiting and loose stools quite quickly leads to dehydration, which, in the absence of adequate correction, can cause irreversible consequences (impaired kidney function and changes in the cardiovascular system). Severe dehydration can even lead to fatal outcome, especially in children and the elderly.

The temperature during infections of the digestive tract can rise to 37C and higher, but in some cases it remains normal (with cholera) or quickly returns to normal (with staphylococcal infection).

Many bacteria pose a threat to human life and health, so if these symptoms occur, you should seek medical help, especially if the stool is particularly watery or contains blood.

Digestive system infections - treatment

Treatment of infectious lesions of the digestive tract is carried out in a hospital setting infectious diseases department. Sometimes doctors are able to quickly identify the pathogen that caused the illness, but quite often the cause of the disease remains unknown.

In case of food poisoning, gastric lavage is required, as in case of poisoning. Competent rehydration therapy (intravenous and/or oral) is carried out. For intravenous administration solutions of Trisol, Quartasol or Chlosol are used, in some cases colloidal solutions are used - Hemodez or Reopoliglyukin. For oral rehydration, preference is given to Regidron (the instructions for use of each drug before use must be studied personally from the official annotation included in the package!).

Doctors may decide to take measures to relieve diarrhea. For this purpose, Indamethacin is often used (for one, sometimes two days); this remedy also helps eliminate cardiodynamic disturbances, which are often observed with infections of the digestive tract, especially with salmonellosis.
In parallel, it is often practiced to administer calcium supplements in combination with vitamin D2, which also helps reduce diarrhea.

Various sorbents are also becoming the drugs of choice for infections of the digestive tract - the well-known Activated carbon, Karbolene, Carbolong, Polypephane, Diosmectite, Attapulgite, etc.

To correct diarrhea, drugs from the group of opiates, represented by Loperamide and Trimebutane, can also be used; the use of atropine-containing antidiarrheal drugs - Lispafen and Reasec - is also often practiced.
In especially severe cases, bismuth is used in large dosages to treat diarrhea.

To directly eliminate the causative agent of digestive tract infections, intestinal antiseptics (Nifuroxazide, Enterosediv, Intestopan, etc.) and antibacterial drugs (most often aminopenicillins, cephalosporins, monobactams, carbapenems, aminoglycosides, etc.) can be used.

Patients with digestive tract infections are advised to take medications to normalize the intestinal flora. Among them are eubiotics and probiotics. The drugs of choice most often are Bifidumbacterin forte, Baktisuptil, Acipol, etc.

The choice of treatment regimen for digestive tract infections is carried out exclusively by a qualified specialist after assessing the patient’s condition.

Folk remedies

Medicines based on herbs and improvised means can also help treat infections of the digestive tract, but they can only be used after consulting a doctor.

Thus, patients with symptoms of infection will benefit from the St. John's wort plant. A tablespoon of its crushed raw materials should be brewed with a glass of just boiled water. Boil this product in a water bath for half an hour, then strain and dilute with cool water to the initial volume. Take the finished medicine, one third of a glass, immediately before meals. Store it in the refrigerator.

Digestive diseases- this group of diseases occupies one of the leading places among diseases internal organs. The fact is that the digestive system is constantly influenced by various environmental factors - the nature of nutrition, working and living conditions.

In addition to structural changes in the organs of the digestive system, functional disorders may also occur. The internal digestive organs include the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. The bile ducts are also involved in digestion.

Digestive diseases are widespread. Most often, these are various inflammatory processes associated with the presence of infection or disruption of the endocrine glands. Any of these diseases acute stage requires immediate treatment, since when it goes into chronic form Surgery may be required.

Digestive diseases

Diseases of the digestive tract are distinguished by the diversity of their clinical and morphological signs.

They include independent primary diseases, which are studied by a science called gastroenterology, as well as other secondary ones, which are a manifestation of a number of diseases of an infectious and non-infectious nature, acquired or hereditary origin.

These diseases may be based on various general pathological processes, such as alteration, inflammation, hyper- and dysplastic processes, autoimmune disorders and, finally, tumors.

Descriptions of diseases of the digestive system

Causes of digestive diseases

The causes of digestive system disorders are:

Diseases of the digestive system can be caused by exogenous, endogenous, and genetic factors.

Exogenous

These primary causes of the disease include:

  • eating dry food,
  • eating very hot foods,
  • abuse of various spices and spices,
  • excessive alcohol consumption,
  • smoking,
  • consumption of poor quality food,
  • lack of diet,
  • hasty eating,
  • defects masticatory apparatus person,
  • uncontrolled use of medications,
  • unfavorable environmental conditions.

Diseases caused by exogenous factors include gastritis and enteritis, colitis, stomach ulcers and duodenum, cholelithiasis, as well as dyskinesia and cirrhosis of the liver.

Endogenous

Secondary (or endogenous) causes of gastrointestinal diseases are diseases such as diabetes and anemia, obesity and hypovitaminosis, various diseases kidneys and lungs, stress. Diseases provoked by endogenous factors are hepatitis and cholecystitis, pancreatitis and enterobiasis.

Genetic

This group includes genetic factors, as well as developmental anomalies, including malformations of the esophagus and benign tumors(both esophagus and stomach), diagnosed abnormal development of the pancreas (for example, cystic fibrosis of the pancreas itself), as well as congenital hypoplasia of the pancreas.

It should be noted that most often gastrointestinal diseases arise from a combination of both endogenous and exogenous factors.

Symptoms of digestive diseases

The symptoms of diseases of the digestive system are varied, but the main signs of the presence of the disease are always present:

  • nausea;
  • frequent change of stool;
  • belching;
  • vomit;
  • flatulence;
  • loss of appetite;
  • fast fatiguability;
  • weight loss;
  • abdominal pain of various locations;
  • insomnia.

Rest characteristic symptoms are different and depend on the type of disease. In many cases, digestive diseases are accompanied by rashes on the skin.

Diagnosis of diseases of the digestive system

Initially, if the development of diseases of the digestive system is suspected, the doctor must conduct a thorough examination of the patient. During the examination, palpation, percussion, and auscultation are practiced. It is necessary to ask in detail about the complaints and study the anamnesis.

As a rule, for diseases of this type, the patient is prescribed laboratory tests:

Widely practiced in the diagnostic process are radiation methods research. Informative method is ultrasonography abdominal organs, radiography, fluoroscopy with contrast agents, CT, MRI.

Depending on the disease, procedures may also be prescribed to assess the condition of the internal organs of the digestive system and at the same time obtain material for a biopsy:

  • colonoscopy,
  • esophagogastroduodenoscopy,
  • sigmoidoscopy,
  • laparoscopy.

To examine the stomach, it is practiced to use functional tests that provide detailed information about the acid secretion of the stomach, its motor function, as well as the condition of the pancreas and small intestine.

Treatment of diseases of the digestive system

The treatment method is determined after diagnosis. For infectious and inflammatory pathologies, antibacterial therapy is required. The following medications are used: Ciprofloxacin, Cefazolin, Metranidazole.

To treat enzyme deficiency, the drugs “Mezim” and “Pancreatin” are used. Anti-inflammatory and antisecretory agents are also used. Surgery consists of eliminating intestinal obstruction, removing stones, tumor formations, suturing an ulcer, etc.

Nutrition for diseases of the digestive system

Nutrition for diseases of the digestive system should be special. In this regard, in our country, at one time, the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences developed special diets that are suitable not only for diseases of the digestive system, but also of other systems (diets are indicated in articles on the treatment of certain diseases). A specially selected diet is necessary in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system and is the key to successful treatment.

If regular enteral nutrition is not possible, parenteral nutrition is prescribed, that is, when the substances necessary for the body enter directly into the blood, bypassing the digestive system. Indications for the use of this diet are: complete esophageal dysphagia, intestinal obstruction, acute pancreatitis and a number of other diseases.

Main Ingredients parenteral nutrition– amino acids (polyamine, aminofusin), fats (lipofundin), carbohydrates (glucose solutions). Electrolytes and vitamins are also introduced taking into account the body's daily needs.

Prevention of digestive diseases

The main and most important prevention of diseases of the digestive organs, and not only them, is the management healthy image life.

This includes giving up bad habits (smoking, alcohol, etc.), regular exercise physical culture, elimination of physical inactivity (lead an active lifestyle), adherence to work and rest schedules, good sleep and other.

It is very important to have a complete, balanced, regular diet, which ensures that the body receives the necessary substances (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, trace elements, vitamins), and monitoring of the body mass index.

Also to preventive measures include annual medical examinations, even if nothing bothers you. After 40 years, it is recommended to conduct an annual ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs and esophagogastroduodenoscopy.

And in no case should the disease be allowed to progress; if symptoms appear, consult a doctor, and not self-medicate or only traditional medicine.

Questions and answers on the topic "Diseases of the digestive system"

Question:I eat, go to bed and a bitterness appears in my throat and mouth.

Answer: Bitterness in the mouth and throat is considered a manifestation of many diseases of various types: from otolaryngological and dental pathologies to disorders of the digestive tract. Most probable cause a feeling of bitterness in the throat is a disruption in the functioning of the biliary tract. You need a face-to-face consultation with a doctor for examination.

Question:Hello! I am 52 years old. Somewhere in 2000, I was examined by a doctor, diagnosed with gastritis and hiatal hernia, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, in general, a whole bunch of diseases. There were stones in the gall bladder. She took various medications, herbal decoctions, and then stopped her treatment. But for many years I have been tormented by heartburn, there are pains in the stomach and liver. I accept various drugs from heartburn, and for a year, after every meal, I feel heaviness in my stomach and after a while I constantly feel sleepy and have frequent heartburn again. I almost always save myself only with antacids. Please tell me why I start to feel sleepy after eating and whether frequent use of Rennie and Almagel A is harmful?

Answer: First of all, you need to decide on gallstones. If they are present, all your problems will only get worse. An examination by a gastroenterologist is necessary.

The state of our health depends not only on what food we eat, but also on the work of those organs that digest this food and deliver it to every cell of our body.

The digestive system begins with the oral cavity, followed by the pharynx, then the esophagus, and finally the core of the digestive system - the gastrointestinal tract.

Oral cavity is the first section of the digestive system, therefore, the entire further process of digestion depends on how well and correctly all the processes of initial food processing proceed in it. It is in the oral cavity that the taste of food is determined; here it is chewed and moistened with saliva.

Pharynx follows oral cavity and is a funnel-shaped canal lined with mucous membrane. The respiratory and digestive tracts intersect in it, the activity of which must be clearly regulated by the body (it’s not for nothing that they say when a person chokes that food has gone “down the wrong throat”).

Esophagus It is a cylindrical tube located between the pharynx and stomach. Through it, food enters the stomach. The esophagus, like the pharynx, is lined with a mucous membrane in which there are special glands that produce a secretion that moistens food as it passes through the esophagus into the stomach. The total length of the esophagus is about 25 cm. calm state The esophagus has a folded shape, but it has the ability to lengthen.

Stomach- one of the main components of the digestive tract. The size of the stomach depends on its fullness and ranges from approximately 1 to 1.5 liters. He performs a series important functions, which include: directly digestive, protective, excretory. In addition, processes associated with the formation of hemoglobin occur in the stomach. It is lined with a mucous membrane, which contains a mass of digestive glands that secrete gastric juice. Here the food mass is saturated with gastric juice and crushed, or rather, the intensive process of its digestion begins.

The main components of gastric juice are: enzymes, hydrochloric acid and mucus. Solid food that enters the stomach can remain in it for up to 5 hours, liquid for up to 2 hours. The components of gastric juice chemically process food entering the stomach, turning it into a partially digested semi-liquid mass, which then enters the duodenum.

Duodenum represents the upper, or first, part of the small intestine. The length of this part of the small intestine is equal to the length of twelve fingers folded together (hence its name). It connects directly to the stomach. Here, in the duodenum, bile from the gallbladder and pancreatic juice enter. The walls of the duodenum also contain a fairly large number of glands that produce an alkaline secretion rich in mucus, which protects the duodenum from the effects of acidic gastric juice entering it.

Small intestine, In addition to the duodenum, it also unites the jejunum and ileum. The small intestine as a whole is approximately 5–6 m long. small intestine Almost all basic digestive processes (digestion of food and its absorption) occur. On inside The small intestine has finger-like projections, due to which its surface increases significantly. In humans, the digestive process ends in the small intestine, which is also lined with a mucous membrane very rich in glands that secrete intestinal juice, which contains enough big number enzymes. Enzymes in intestinal juice complete the process of breaking down proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The mass located in the small intestine is mixed due to peristalsis. The food gruel slowly moves through the small intestine, entering the large intestine in small portions.

Colon about twice as thick as a thin one. It consists of the cecum with a vermiform appendix, the colon and rectum. Here, in the large intestine, undigested food remains accumulate, and digestion processes are practically absent. Two main processes occur in the large intestine: the absorption of water and the formation of feces. The rectum serves as a place for the accumulation of feces, which are removed from the body during defecation.

Appendix, as we have already said, it is part of the large intestine and is a short and thin extension of the cecum, about 7-10 cm long. Its functions, as well as the causes of its inflammation, are still not clearly clear to doctors. According to modern data and the opinion of some scientists, the appendix, in the wall of which there are many lymphoid nodules, is one of the organs of the immune system.

But the digestive system, no matter how correctly its individual organs are structured, could not work without certain substances - enzymes, which are produced in the body by special glands. The triggering mechanisms for the digestive system are digestive enzymes, which are proteins that break down large food molecules into smaller ones. The activity of enzymes in our body during the digestion process is aimed at substances such as proteins, fats and carbohydrates, and minerals, water and vitamins are absorbed almost unchanged.

To break down each group of substances, there are specific enzymes: for proteins - proteases, for fats - lipases, for carbohydrates - carbohydrates. The main glands that produce digestive enzymes are the glands of the oral cavity ( salivary glands), glands of the stomach and small intestine, pancreas and liver. The main role in this is played by the pancreas, which produces not only digestive enzymes, but also hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are involved in the regulation of protein, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

There are quite a lot of cells that produce digestive enzymes in the pancreas. They form special clusters from which small excretory ducts extend; Secreted pancreatic juice moves along them, which is a kind of cocktail of different enzymes.

The glands of the small intestine, where most of the food is digested, are also important.

Digestive system diseases

Disorders of the digestive system bring a lot of trouble to a person. Diseases of the digestive system, as a rule, affect other systems, causing chain reaction. Digestive disorders occur as a result of hereditary or congenital diseases; pathogens that enter the body; improper nutrition (eating foods of poor quality or that are far from healthy for the body, violations of the eating schedule, etc.); psychosomatic reactions.

The most common causes of illness gastrointestinal tract are infectious pathogens, and also not proper nutrition. For example, gastrointestinal diseases are often caused by bacteria: salmonella, staphylococcus, shigella, which enter the body with poor-quality food. Pathogens such as amoebas, worms (roundworms, tapeworms, pinworms) enter the gastrointestinal tract with uncleaned, poorly processed foods, contaminated drinking water or through dirt.

IN last years Diseases of the digestive system, which are based on improper, unbalanced nutrition, have become more frequent. Excessive consumption of fatty, sweet, flour foods leads to overload of the digestive system. In addition, food eaten while running is poorly chewed and, accordingly, is poorly absorbed by the body.

A few words should be said about the stresses that abound in our lives, especially in megacities. Our mental, or more precisely, psycho-emotional state has a direct impact on the functioning of all organs and systems of the body. For example, a stressful situation at work or a scandal at home can cause abdominal pain, renewed peptic ulcer. We should not forget that many people react to professional and personal problems with ailments of the gastrointestinal system.

Gastritis(from gr. gaster– stomach) – inflammation of the gastric mucosa; can be acute or chronic. Acute gastritis develops as a result of excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages or other foods that irritate or corrode the mucous membrane. He is accompanied sharp pain in the stomach area, vomiting, and sometimes a slight increase in temperature. Acute gastritis is characterized by a feeling of fullness in the stomach, in addition, there is diarrhea or constipation, and bloating.

Chronic gastritis does not develop immediately (unlike acute gastritis): over a certain period of time, processes occur that lead to disruption of the cells of the gastric mucosa, the secretion of gastric juice, and motor activity. Chronic gastritis often occurs in heavy smokers. In recent years, evidence has emerged confirming the infectious nature of gastritis. The cause of chronic gastritis is called Helicobacter.

Chronic gastritis, which is essentially an inflammatory disease, bears little resemblance to the usual types of inflammation. In chronic gastritis, the normal restoration of cells in the mucous membrane is disrupted, which leads to its thinning and, accordingly, disruption of the production of gastric juice. Chronic gastritis, in turn, is divided into gastritis with high and low acidity. Both forms are accompanied by abdominal pain. With gastritis with high acidity, belching with a sour taste, heartburn, nausea, bad taste in the mouth. With gastritis with low acidity, nausea, vomiting, a feeling of rapid satiety, and flatulence often occur. People suffering from gastritis with low acidity tend to lose weight, they experience dry skin, hair loss and brittle nails.

Gastroduodenitis(from gr. gaster- stomach, duodenum– duodenum) most often has a chronic form. This disease affects the duodenum, the mucous membrane of which becomes inflamed, which leads to pain in the stomach and duodenum, and bitter belching. With chronic gastroduodenitis, a person may experience a state of lethargy, general malaise, weakness, sweating, rumbling in the stomach, and dizziness 2-3 hours after eating. These symptoms are associated with disruption of the sensory nerve endings located in the inflamed mucous membrane of the duodenum.

Diarrhea (diarrhea)(from gr. diarrheo- expire) is a disorder of intestinal function, accompanied by frequent bowel movements, in which feces have a soft or liquid consistency. Diarrhea cannot be classified as a disease; most often it is a symptom of some disease. Diarrhea can also develop when intestinal infections, inflammatory diseases of the intestines and pancreas, intolerance to any type of food, disturbances in the intestinal flora, intestinal overload, as well as when taking antibiotics or abusing laxatives. Excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to intestinal upset. Severe or long-lasting diarrhea can lead to dehydration.

There are several types, or types, of diarrhea. Acute diarrhea, which occurs in stressful situations, fear, excitement (the so-called “bear disease”) or with intolerance to any food. This type of diarrhea does not last long, is harmless and often goes away on its own. Road diarrhea can last from several hours to several days. It affects travelers and tourists, especially during their stay in Southern Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. The cause of this disease is a change in climate, food, drinking cold drinks and ice cream. At chronic diarrhea loose stools are repeated over a long period of time. The causes of this disease may be inflammatory processes occurring in the large or small intestine, or certain types of foods. Infectious diarrhea caused by bacteria and viruses that can enter the human body through food or drink. With this disease, spasms, fever, and fever are often observed. Such diarrhea is often observed with dysentery, cholera, and typhoid fever.

Dysbacteriosis– a syndrome characterized by a violation of the mobile balance of the microflora populating the intestines. With dysbacteriosis in the intestine, the number of putrefactive or fermentative bacteria increases, mainly Candida. Opportunistic microorganisms begin to actively multiply.

With dysbacteriosis, appetite decreases; there may be an unpleasant taste in the mouth, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea or constipation; feces have a sharp putrid or sour odor; signs of general intoxication are often observed. It is believed that the cause of dysbacteriosis is, first of all, a disruption of the digestive processes, as well as prolonged and uncontrolled use of antibiotics that suppress normal microflora.

Dyskinesia of the digestive tract– a functional disease, manifested by a violation of the tone and peristalsis of the digestive organs that have smooth muscles (esophagus, stomach, biliary tract, intestines). The disease is accompanied by symptoms such as belching, regurgitation of gastric contents after a heavy meal, when bending over and in a lying position. In addition, there is chest pain associated with swallowing, as well as a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, brief abdominal pain.

Constipation is a condition in which bowel movements are rare or the stool is a very dense, solid mass in the form of small balls. As a rule, in people suffering from constipation, the process of defecation is very difficult and is accompanied by painful phenomena. Constipation can be acute or chronic.

Acute constipation occurs when a person is temporarily unable to have a bowel movement every day. This phenomenon is observed, for example, when changing place of residence (especially if climatic and, accordingly, food conditions change significantly), as well as with certain diseases. The main symptoms of acute constipation are a feeling of fullness in the stomach and intestines, bloating or mild nausea.

If a person cannot empty his or her bowels normally every day for a long time, then in this case they speak of chronic constipation. Chronic constipation is characterized by a feeling of fullness in the stomach, loss of appetite, abdominal and back pain, headaches, fatigue and lethargy. The skin takes on an unhealthy, earthy-gray hue, and a skin rash may appear on the back and face. Chronic constipation can also be caused by poor nutrition, leading to intestinal overload; psycho-emotional state; alcohol abuse. Constipation is often observed in women during pregnancy.

Heartburn is not a characteristic disease, it most likely can be attributed to certain physiological conditions. It is often the result of eating too much or hastily, in which fatty or sugary foods dominate. Heartburn can be an accompanying symptom of irritation of the stomach and intestines, peptic ulcer. With heartburn, there are unpleasant painful sensations, usually of a burning nature, arising in the chest area, running from the stomach to the throat. Heartburn is usually accompanied by a bitter or sour taste in the mouth.

Colitis(from gr. kolon- colon) - inflammatory disease of the colon. With colitis, severe intestinal spasms and pain in the intestinal area often occur, accompanied by diarrhea, sometimes mixed with blood and mucus. Colitis may have acute form, but most often its chronic form develops. The causes of this disease are: prolonged stress, disorders of the immune system, consumption of unbalanced food, change of place of residence (especially if there is a sharp change in climatic conditions). In addition, colitis can develop as a result of infection of the body with amoebas or any bacteria. Then they talk about infectious colitis.

Pancreatitis(from gr. pancreas– pancreas) – inflammation of the pancreas; can be acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis usually develops suddenly and is characterized by severe pain in the upper abdomen and back, which can often be accompanied by the development of shock. In chronic pancreatitis, the symptoms of the disease are not clearly expressed: there is no severe pain, but the result of chronic pancreatitis can be the development of diabetes mellitus. Causes of this disease are not fully understood, but many experts consider the presence of gallstones, as well as alcohol abuse, to be such.

Esophagitis(from gr. oisophagos- esophagus) - inflammation of the esophagus, in which there is heartburn, the flow of bitterness from the esophagus into the oral cavity, and in some cases even difficulty swallowing, sometimes accompanied by pain. Due to the entry of gastric contents into Airways hoarseness may appear in the morning and barking cough. Complications of esophagitis include bleeding, narrowing of the esophageal canal, and ulceration of the esophagus.

The causes of esophagitis can be divided into two groups: external and internal. TO external reasons it can be attributed to the entry of some sharp object into the esophagus, for example a fish bone; a burn of the mucous membrane of the esophagus (for example, as a result of acid entering it), which is then complicated by inflammation. Internal causes include disturbances in the functioning of the stomach, which are associated with the processes of defense mechanisms, increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, high acidity of gastric juice. In certain situations, the stomach begins to work so that its juice enters the esophagus, resulting in inflammatory processes, because the mucous membrane of the esophagus is much more sensitive to acid than the stomach.

Enteritis(from gr. enteron- intestines) - inflammation of the small intestine, often causing diarrhea and vomiting in humans. Sometimes the patient experiences significant fluid loss. Basically, enteritis is infectious in nature as a result of the entry of certain viruses or bacteria into the human body. In addition, enteritis can be caused by radiation exposure (X-rays or radioactive isotopes).

Duodenal ulcer- an ulcer resulting from the action of acid and pepsin on the mucous membrane. This disease usually develops against the background increased acidity gastric juice. The main symptom of the disease is pain in the upper abdomen, most often occurring in a person before eating (on an empty stomach). The pain may subside spontaneously and not bother a person for several weeks or even months, but then it can occur with a vengeance. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by vomiting and weakness.

Stomach ulcer develops under the influence of acid, pepsin and bile on the mucous membrane of the stomach wall. At the same time, acid secretion in the stomach does not increase. The main symptoms of a stomach ulcer are vomiting and pain in the upper abdomen soon after eating; Often a complication such as gastric bleeding can develop.

Allowed and prohibited foods for gastrointestinal diseases

Information on permitted and prohibited products for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract is given in table. 1.

Table 1

The digestive system performs the function of processing food, separating proteins, carbohydrates, minerals and others necessary substances, and also ensures their absorption into the bloodstream. Let's look at the most common diseases of the digestive system.

The digestive organs include:

  • esophagus;
  • liver;
  • gallbladder;
  • stomach;
  • pancreas;
  • intestines.

Interruptions in normal operation These organs can cause serious consequences for human life. The performance of the gastrointestinal tract is closely related to the environment and most diseases are largely dependent on exposure external factors(viruses, bacteria, etc.).

Remember! To avoid diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, you should not abuse food and drinks. Changes in the digestive process also cause emotional stress.

Abdominal pain can occur in any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the intestines. Sometimes pain indicates a small problem, such as eating too much food. In other cases, it may be a signal of the onset of a serious illness that requires treatment.

This is difficult or painful digestion. It may occur against the background of physical or emotional overload. It can be caused by gastritis, ulcers or inflammation of the gallbladder.

The main symptoms of dyspepsia: a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, gas, constipation, diarrhea, nausea. These discomfort symptoms may be accompanied by headaches or dizziness. Treatment is prescribed depending on the specific cause of the disease and includes taking medicines, introduction of a special diet.

Heartburn

Heartburn occurs due to insufficient closure of the sphincter. In this case, stomach acid can be thrown into the esophagus and cause irritation.

There are a number of factors that contribute to heartburn. These are excess weight, which causes abdominal compression, fatty or spicy foods, alcoholic drinks, caffeine, mint, chocolate, nicotine, citrus juices and tomatoes. The habit of lying down after eating also contributes to heartburn.

Acute abdominal pain is a symptom of various disorders of its functions. They often occur due to infections, obstruction, or eating foods that irritate the walls of the digestive tract.

The problem of colic in infant, although it is believed that they are caused by increased gas production due to digestive disorders. Renal colic occurs when stones are removed from the ureter before Bladder. Symptoms of colic are sometimes confused with appendicitis and peritonitis.

From a medical point of view, it is believed that with constipation, bowel movements occur less than 3 times a week. Constipation is not a disease, but a symptom of a disease. It may appear when:

  • insufficient fluid intake;
  • poor nutrition;
  • lack of regularity in the process of defecation;
  • in old age;
  • lack of physical activity;
  • pregnancy.

Constipation can also cause various diseases such as cancer, hormonal disorders, heart disease or kidney failure. In addition, constipation can occur after taking certain medications.

Note! In itself it does not pose a danger, but if it continues long time, can lead to hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea disturbance of intestinal rhythm accompanying loose stools. The process causes infections, viral or bacterial. It can occur when taking toxic substances that irritate the intestines or during emotional stress.

Hernias

A hernia is the prolapse of an organ or part of it through the wall of a cavity. Classification depends on their structure or location.

  1. Inguinal hernia- prolapse of part of the intestine through the abdominal wall into the groin area.
  2. A diaphragmatic hernia or hiatal hernia is a hole in the diaphragm that allows intestines to enter the chest cavity.
  3. Umbilical hernia is the penetration of intestines through the abdominal wall under the skin of the navel.

Typically, hernias occur due to excess stress on weakened walls. An inguinal hernia can occur, for example, when coughing or defecating. It causes moderate pain. Intra-abdominal hernias are very painful. Some hernias can be reduced by applying gentle pressure to the prolapsed portion of the intestine. It is advisable to provide such assistance to older people. Surgery is recommended for young patients.

You should know! If a hernia is strangulated, emergency treatment is required. surgery, as this can lead to gangrene within a few hours. The operation is performed to strengthen the cavity walls by applying sutures.

Gastritis is an acute or chronic inflammation gastric mucosa.

  1. Acute gastritis causes erosion of the surface cells of the mucous membrane, nodular formations, and sometimes bleeding of the stomach walls.
  2. Chronic gastritis occurs when the mucous membrane gradually transforms into fibrous tissue. The disease is accompanied by a decrease in the rate of gastric emptying and weight loss.

The most common cause of gastritis is smoking, drinking alcohol, stimulating drinks (tea, coffee), excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid into gastric juice and various infections, including syphilis, tuberculosis and some fungal infections.

Recently, scientists have found that Helicobacter pylori bacteria are present in the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum in 80% of patients with gastritis and peptic ulcer (stomach and duodenum). This discovery was revolutionary in the treatment of such diseases, to the point that taking antibiotics became one of the main directions.

Remember! Psychological stress is of no small importance in the occurrence of gastritis.

A spasmodic process in which alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea, accompanied by severe abdominal pain and other symptoms of unknown causes, is called irritable bowel syndrome. In some cases, this occurs due to disruption of the smooth muscles of the colon. This disease affects up to 30% of patients seeking consultation in gastroenterology.

Diarrhea is often associated with stressful situations. In some cases, such a disease may begin after a previous infectious disease. Proper nutrition is of no small importance. Some patients felt better after adding fiber to their diet. Others claim that relief comes from reducing carbohydrates and white bread.

Enteritis

Inflammatory bowel disease - enteritis. May manifest as abdominal pain, tingling, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea. Chronic enteritis can be caused by serious diseases requiring surgical intervention.

Acute enteritis is less severe, but in the elderly and children it can cause dehydration and even threaten their lives. Enteritis can be caused by chemical irritants, allergies or emotional stress. But the most common cause is infection (viral or bacterial).

Appendicitis is an acute inflammation of the appendix of the intestine. Which is a tube 1-2 cm in diameter and from 5 to 15 cm in length. It is located, as a rule, in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. Its removal does not cause a pathological change. The most common cause of appendicitis is infection. Without treatment, the wall of the appendix is ​​destroyed and the contents of the intestine are poured into abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis.

Appendicitis is more common in young people. But it can appear at any age. Its typical symptoms are abdominal pain (especially in the lower right), fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea.

Know! Treatment for appendicitis involves removing it.

Ulcers

Ulcers can occur in the stomach or small intestine (duodenum). In addition to pain, ulcers can lead to complications such as bleeding due to erosion of blood vessels. Thinning of the walls of the stomach or intestines or inflammation in the ulcer area causes peritonitis and gastrointestinal obstruction.

The immediate cause of a peptic ulcer is the destruction of the mucous membrane of the stomach or intestines under the influence of hydrochloric acid, which is present in the digestive juice of the stomach.

Interesting! Helicobacter pylori is believed to play an important role in the occurrence of gastric or duodenal ulcers. A connection has also been established that its appearance is due to an excess amount of hydrochloric acid, genetic predisposition, smoking abuse, psychological stress.

Depending on the causes of the ulcer, appropriate treatment is applied. These may be drugs that block the production of hydrochloric acid. Antibiotics work against the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided during treatment. Although diet is not of paramount importance. In severe cases, surgery is necessary.

Pancreatitis

This inflammation of the pancreas occurs when enzymes are not removed from it, but are activated directly in this gland. Inflammation can be sudden (acute) or progressive (chronic).

  1. Acute pancreatitis usually involves only an “attack”, after which the pancreas returns to its normal state.
  2. In severe form, acute pancreatitis can put the patient's life at risk.
  3. The chronic form gradually damages the pancreas and its functions, leading to fibrosis of the organ.

Pancreatitis can be caused by alcoholism or high consumption of fatty foods. Main symptom– pain in the upper abdomen, spreading to the back and lower back, nausea, vomiting, feeling of pain even with a light touch to the stomach. Often such an attack ends in 2-3 days, but in 20% the disease progresses, causing hypotension, respiratory and renal failure. In this case, part of the pancreas dies.

Chronic pancreatitis is characterized by periodic, recurring abdominal pain. Diabetes mellitus can provoke the disease. In 80% of cases it is caused by gallstones. Also influence the occurrence of this disease:

  • renal failure;
  • hypercalcemia;
  • presence of a tumor;
  • abdominal injuries;
  • cystic fibrosis;
  • stings of wasps, bees, scorpions, etc.;
  • some medications;
  • infections.

Treatment for pancreatitis depends on the severity. In 90% of patients with acute pancreatitis the disease passes without complications. In other cases, the disease drags on, becoming chronic. If improvement does not occur within the first hours or days, then, as a rule, the patient is transferred to intensive care.

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is called inflammatory process walls of the gallbladder. In this case, micro- and macroscopic changes occur, which develop from simple inflammation to the suppuration phase.

Symptoms may vary (abdominal pain, nausea, fever, chills, yellow discoloration skin and etc.). The attacks usually last for two or three days, but if left untreated they will continue. The onset of cholecystitis can be sudden or gradual.

There are several reasons that can cause or worsen cholecystitis. This is the presence of gallstones, infections in bile duct, tumors in the liver or pancreas, decreased blood circulation in the gallbladder.

Diverticulitis

A group of disorders of colon function in which inflammation of small pockets of the mucous membrane occurs ( inner shell intestines). These bags are called diverticula. When diverticula have no complications it is called asymptomatic diverticulosis. But if intestinal spasms and other symptoms occur, the disease is called diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis occurs when bowel movements are blocked and the colon becomes inflamed. Symptoms of diverticulitis: pain and fever. In severe cases, abscesses and intestinal obstruction occur.

Sometimes the walls of the large intestine become fused with small intestine or vagina. This occurs due to the formation of fistulas. In severe cases, intestinal contents enter the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis.

Chronic illness liver, which leads to irreversible destruction of liver cells. Cirrhosis is the final stage of many diseases that affect the liver. Its main consequences are failure of the liver and increased blood pressure in the vein that carries blood from the stomach and gastrointestinal tract to the liver.

Note! Alcohol and hepatitis B are believed to be the main causes of liver cirrhosis. In countries with low alcohol consumption (eg Islamic countries), the prevalence of liver cirrhosis is much lower.

The digestive tract is vital important system in organism. Diseases of this system are usually the result of external factors such as diet and infections. From this we can conclude that in most cases this is the result of one’s own inattention and ignorance of a healthy diet and hygiene rules.

Many people do not pay attention to the emerging symptoms of diseases of the digestive system. This leads to the fact that at first they simply bring inconvenience, but over time they turn into serious illnesses which are very difficult to cure.

Treatment of gastritis and stomach ulcers is carried out comprehensively using medications, diets and remedies traditional medicine. These diseases are the most common types of inflammatory conditions of the mucous membrane...

Gastritis is an inflammatory disease of the gastric mucosa, in which severe irritation occurs, erosion occurs, which can ultimately lead to an ulcer. There are several different types...

Gastritis is a fairly common disease in modern times. Nowadays, an active and fast-paced lifestyle prevails, which does not always allow for rational and regular nutrition. As a result...

Gastritis - an inflammatory disease of the gastric mucosa - is an extremely common pathology today, which can cause many unpleasant symptoms and lead to other disorders...

Gastroenterology

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Gastroenterology– a special discipline that studies the structure, physiology and pathology of the digestive system, as well as the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the digestive system. Within gastroenterology there are narrower sections: for example, liver and gall bladder diseases are studied by hepatology, pathology of the large intestine and pararectal space - proctology. The condition has a great influence on the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract organs. endocrine system, oral cavity, the presence of infectious agents in the body.

The digestive system includes a collection of many organs and glands that provide the nutrients the body needs for development and functioning. It permeates almost the entire body, starting with the oral cavity and ending with the rectum. Therefore, the pathology of even one of the digestive organs entails a disorder in the functioning of the digestive system as a whole. Modern ecology, stress, new food products and additives, as well as medications, cause the occurrence or exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases.

Ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, cholelithiasis, ulcerative colitis. Serious problem modern society - intestinal dysbiosis, which occurs in the vast majority of people, including newborns.

Diseases of the stomach, pancreas, and intestines are often the root cause of many skin and metabolic diseases. The symptoms of diseases of the digestive system are very diverse and depend on the affected organ. Common manifestations include loss of appetite, abdominal pain, belching, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, upset stool, weakness, weight loss.