Digestive issues are pretty common nowadays. Different conditions require different treatment, or different changes in lifestyle, to alleviate symptoms and offer relief. So, it’s important that you are aware of the symptoms of issues you may face. This will help you to make the relevant changes as quickly as possible if you ever do experience them! Here are three of the most common digestive issues experienced by adults!
Constipation
Constipation is one of the most common digestive issues in the world. If you are constipated, you will experience difficulty passing stools as easily and regularly as you should. You may have fewer than three bowel movements a week, you may pass dry or hard stools, you may have to strain during bowel movements or you could even experience a rectal blockage. Now, for most people, constipation is an occasional thing. But for others, it is regular. Common causes of constipation include:
- a low-fiber diet
- a diet high in meat, milk or cheese
- dehydration
- lack of exercise
- delaying the impulse to have a bowel movement
- travel or other changes in routine
- medications like high calcium antacids and pain medications
- Pregnancy
Most of these can be tackled easily or are temporary. If you change your lifestyle to encourage bowel movements and are still experiencing problems though, you may want to visit a doctor. They could recommend stool softener tablets or diagnose underlying conditions causing the constipation.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Another common digestive issue is IBS or “irritable bowel syndrome”. It is estimated that one in five people suffer from this condition at any given time. It is identified by:
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
While few people will experience these problems constantly, they do come and go and IBS tends to be a lifelong issue that doesn’t resolve itself. There’s no cure for IBS, but it can be managed with help from medication and lifestyle changes. If you feel you may be suffering from IBS, make sure to consult a doctor who will be able to confirm your suspicions and can give specific recommendations in regards to your lifestyle and habits.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis isn’t as well known as constipation or IBS. But it is still a relatively common digestive issue. When you have diverticulitis, you develop pouches – or “diverticula” – within your colon walls. These pouches can become inflamed or irritated, causing severe discomfort. Unfortunately, this is another condition that doesn’t have an outright cure. But doctors generally recommend that people with diverticulitis incorporate more fiber into their diet to help with the condition. Again, if you are worried that you may have diverticulitis, it’s best to visit your doctor for an official diagnosis and individual advice.
These are just three digestive issues that commonly affect the adult population. So, it’s important that you are aware of their symptoms. If you have any concerns with your own digestive health, the best piece of advice is to visit your doctor. They’ll be able to identify the specific cause and set you out on the right path to relief and comfort!
Thank you for reading!