Some of the most common digestive problems are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. It is important to remember that numerous conditions can cause digestive difficulties. Typically, digestive problems are temporary and resolve on their own or with minimal intervention. However, digestive problems can be a sign of a more serious disease, such as cancer. To determine the possible cause of the digestive problems, physicians obtain a medical history, review the patient’s symptoms and conduct a physical examination. Patients may be seen by their regular physician or if necessary, by a specialist such as a gastroenterologist, who is an expert in the problems of the digestive (gastrointestinal) tract. The treatment of digestive problems can be established once the underlying cause has been determined.

Among various causes of digestive problems include the following …

Stresses of all kinds, physical, emotional and mental, are primary causes of poor digestion. All unconscious activity in the human body, including both our reactions to stress and digestion, are controlled by the autonomic nervous system. In addition to mental and emotional stresses like fear, anger and worry, physical stresses including infections, trauma from injuries, surgery and environmental toxins can have a major effect on our digestive efficiency.

Antibiotics can kill a high percentage of the naturally occurring beneficial bacteria that we need for digestion. Once the antibiotic treatment stops there is an opening and pathogenic bacteria, opportunistic yeasts, fungi and parasites can move in to fill this void. Once they become dominant and multiply, they can damage the gut wall, create toxins and affect your immune system. Improper diet that is high in refined foods, and lacks fiber can lead to digestive problems too. Not enough raw foods including fruits and vegetables in the diet can lead to digestive problems. Lack of physical activity can be a problem causing digestion problems too.

Excessive consumption of junk food can lead to problems in digestion too. Improperly chewed food and food consumed with a lot of water may lead to indigestion. Certain drugs like antacids, antihistamines, NSAIDS, birth control pills, laxatives, steroids, alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, marijuana, cocaine and many others. Infections due to improper food and water contamination may lead to digestive problems. Viral and bacterial infections can cause diarrhea / constipation. As with all functions and organs genetics plays an important role in digestive functioning and our ability to withstand stress and resist digestive problems and diseases. Problems experienced by family members can be clues to our own genetic strengths and weaknesses as we learn more about this subject and move in the direction of improved health. Rare causes including diverticulitis, gall bladder stones, worms like giardiasis may lead to digestive problems too.

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