Nearly 100 million Americans suffer from gastrological disorders, and more than 10 million of those are hospitalized each year from stomach problems. In fact, conditions of the stomach and intestines are not only on the rise in the United States; they are the number one affliction in the country today, and that means that Gastrology (the study, diagnosis, and treatment of digestive disorders) is one of the most in demand specialties in medicine today. This isn't a surprise, considering the new American diet that seems to be overloaded with heavy, processed foods that are sorely lacking in nutrition. Topping the list of the most common gastrological conditions are gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and acid reflux.

Gastritis

Also referred to as 'dyspepsia,' gastritis occurs when the stomach's lining becomes inflamed. The most common symptoms that go along with gastritis can be difficult to bear. These include abdominal pain and bloating, belching, nausea, vomiting, a feeling of fullness, and indigestion. Some of the more serious symptoms of gastritis are black or tarry stools and vomiting that looks like coffee grounds. Causes of gastritis can range from stress, alcohol abuse, and overeating, to overuse of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, to infections and even autoimmune disorders. A gastroenterology specialist in Flushing will test for gastritis by performing a simple test called an 'endoscopy,' which uses a thin tube containing a tiny camera. During the test, the endoscope is passed through the mouth into the stomach in order to investigate the stomach lining and look for inflammation. A biopsy may also be necessary in order to obtain a tissue sample for testing. One of the most common treatments of gastritis is diet alteration to include green, leafy vegetables. Another treatment is the to avoid or eliminate altogether eating greasy, fried, or spicy foods. Other treatments include medications such as Zantac, Pepcid, and Tagamet, as these help to neutralize stomach acids, as well as prescription antibiotics for gastritis that is caused by bacteria such as H. pylori.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a very common disorder affecting Americans these days. It is a chronic gastrological condition that can last for years and needs continuous management by patients along with their GI doctors. The symptoms of IBS include many of the same symptoms of other digestive conditions. These include abdominal pain and bloating, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, mucus in the stool, and in more serious cases, rectal bleeding. Certain foods can bring on bouts of IBS, such carbonated beverages, chocolate, spicy or fatty foods, and even some foods that are considered healthy such as cabbage, broccoli, and some fruits. Stress and major life changes can also be factors in bringing on a period of IBS in a patient who suffers from it. Treatments of IBS typically include management of the disorder rather than cure, including dietary changes involving monitoring of foods in order to discover catalysts, medications such as over-the-counter anti-diarrheal drugs, regular meal schedules, and even regular exercise.

Acid reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), more commonly called acid reflux, also is a chronic gastrological disorder. Acid reflux occurs when acid in the stomach flows back, or 'refluxes,' up into the esophagus. This reflux creates a backwash of acid that causes irritation to the lining of the esophagus. Discomfort or pain (sometimes called 'heartburn') is the most common symptom of acid reflux. This can be a serious situation if left undiagnosed and untreated, as it can cause complications such as ulcers and even precancerous conditions of the esophagus itself. If a patient is experiencing difficulty swallowing due to acid reflux, the esophagus will become weakened. Progressive acid reflux causes higher levels of acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing greater inflammation and erosion of the esophagus, which can even cause bleeding or compromise of breathing. The most common treatments for acid reflux are antacids. Some of these can be purchased over-the-counter, such as Mylanta, Gaviscon, Rolaids, and Tums. If antacids are not enough to heal the inflammation of the esophagus as well as relieve pain, stronger medications may be needed, and a GI doctor will need to prescribe these following examination and diagnosis. Prescription-strength medications for acid reflux include cimetidine which includes brand name Tagamet, famotidine which includes brand name Pepcid, and ranitidine which includes the brand name medication Zantac.

The sad fact today is that most Americans have suffered with some sort of digestive disorder at one time or another in their lives. With all the refined sugars and other processed foods we eat, coupled with the stress of busy schedules, few of us take the time or effort to eat the way we should. No one wants to face the pain or discomfort of a gastrological condition, but if you find yourself suffering from stomach trouble, consult a GI doctor for diagnosis and treatment today.