Patient education
Short, plain-language guides to common digestive problems, with sources. They are a starting point for a conversation with your doctor, not a diagnosis.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Savita Srivastava, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist · Last updated · Sources · Editorial policy
A common disorder of gut–brain interaction that causes belly pain with diarrhea, constipation or both. It does not damage the bowel. Diagnosis uses symptom criteria plus a few targeted tests, and treatment combines diet, gut–brain therapies and, when needed, medicine 1.
Read moreGastroesophageal reflux disease happens when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus often enough to cause symptoms or damage. Lifestyle steps and acid-reducing medicines help many people. Trouble swallowing, weight loss, bleeding or vomiting needs prompt evaluation 2.
Infrequent, hard or difficult bowel movements lasting months. Fiber (especially soluble fiber), fluids and activity are first steps; several over-the-counter and prescription medicines are supported by a joint AGA–ACG guideline 3.
Very common and usually harmless, but it can be uncomfortable. Patterns linked to meals, bowel habits or certain foods help point to a cause, such as IBS, constipation or poorly absorbed carbohydrates 4.
An immune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine. It can cause diarrhea, bloating, anemia or no obvious symptoms. Testing should be done before cutting out gluten, because a gluten-free diet can make tests falsely normal 5.
Small pouches in the colon wall are common with age. When one becomes inflamed (diverticulitis) it can cause pain, fever and changes in bowel habits. Many mild cases are managed without antibiotics under medical guidance 6.
Now called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, it is linked with excess weight, diabetes and high cholesterol. It often causes no symptoms and is found on blood tests or scans 7.
Small growths in the colon. Some types can slowly turn into cancer, which is why screening that finds and removes them is so effective. How often you need follow-up depends on what is found 8.
Read moreSee a doctor promptly for blood in your stool or black stools, unexplained weight loss, trouble or pain swallowing, persistent vomiting, iron-deficiency anemia, or digestive symptoms that wake you at night. Call 911 for severe sudden belly pain, vomiting blood, or fainting.
Appointments
Dr. Srivastava sees patients at Sentara Gastroenterology Specialists – Charlottesville, part of Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital. Start on the contact page, or email [email protected].