Ruoansulatushäiriöt

Ruoansulatushäiriöt, or digestive disorders, refer to a broad category of conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract. These can range from mild and temporary issues to chronic and severe diseases. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and heartburn. The causes are diverse and can include infections, inflammation, genetic factors, dietary habits, and stress.

Disorders affecting the upper digestive system include conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, while peptic ulcers are sores in the stomach or duodenum. GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Conditions affecting the lower digestive system include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and diverticular disease. IBS is a common disorder causing abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. IBD involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.

Diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, blood tests, and stool samples. Treatment approaches vary widely depending on the specific disorder and its severity. They may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, medications to manage symptoms or underlying causes, and in some cases, surgery. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and regular exercise can contribute to overall digestive health and help prevent or manage some digestive issues.