Digestive problems can take many different forms, and it is often not easy to decide when to see a doctor. In this comprehensive guide, we outline the most common digestive symptoms and their possible causes, and help you understand when a specialist consultation is necessary.
The structure of the digestive system
The digestive system is a complex system extending from the mouth to the rectum, comprising the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, as well as the liver, gallbladder and pancreas. When these organs do not function properly, various symptoms may arise.
Symptoms of upper gastrointestinal tract disorders
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Difficulty swallowing means that you feel an obstruction when swallowing food or drink. This may be objective (it is actually difficult to swallow) or subjective (you feel as though you cannot swallow).
When to see a doctor:
- If swallowing solid foods is difficult, and this gradually extends to liquid foods as well
- If swallowing both liquids and solid foods has been difficult since the onset of the symptoms
- If it occurs in older people, or persists for months
Possible causes:
- Oesophageal stricture
- Dysmotility of the oesophagus
- Inflammation of the oesophagus
Painful swallowing (odynophagia)
If swallowing is painful, this often indicates an inflammatory process, a spastic movement disorder or the presence of a foreign body.
When to see a doctor:
- If the pain is regular and recurrent
- If accompanied by a fever or weight loss
- If you notice sputum mixed with blood
Heartburn and acid reflux
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the centre of the chest, which often occurs after meals. It is caused by the backflow of acidic stomach contents into the oesophagus.
Typical symptoms:
- A burning sensation behind the breastbone
- A sour taste in the mouth
- Persistent cough
- Hoarseness
When to see a doctor:
- If you log in several times a week
- If the symptoms do not improve with medication
- If this is accompanied by difficulty swallowing
- If you are applying for the first time and are over 40
Abdominal pain and discomfort
The location and nature of abdominal pain can reveal a great deal about the possible cause:
Upper abdominal pain (epigastric region):
- Stomach ulcer: pain that worsens after eating
- Duodenal ulcer: pain occurring 2–5 hours after a meal, night-time pain
- Pancreatitis: belt-like pain that radiates into the lower back
Pain around the navel:
- Small bowel problems
- Gastrointestinal infections
Pain in the upper right abdomen:
- Inflammation of the gallbladder
- Strawberries
- Liver problems
When to seek urgent medical attention:
- A sudden, very severe pain
- Accompanied by a fever and chills
- Vomiting or stools mixed with blood
- The onset of jaundice
Complaints relating to stools
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea means passing loose or watery stools three or more times a day.
Acute diarrhoea (lasting less than 2 weeks):
- Food poisoning
- Viral infections
- Side effects of medicines
Chronic diarrhoea (lasting more than 4 weeks):
- Gluten intolerance
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Malabsorption disorders
Distress signals:
- Bloody or mucous diarrhoea
- High fever
- Signs of severe dehydration
- Significant weight loss
Constipation
Constipation means having a bowel movement three times a week or less, and the stools are hard and difficult to pass.
Possible causes:
- Low intake of fluids and fibre
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Side effects of medicines
- Hypothyroidism
When to see a doctor:
- If it lasts longer than 3 weeks
- If it develops suddenly
- If there is blood in your stools
- If it is accompanied by weight loss
Bloody stools
Blood in the stools is always a warning sign that requires a thorough investigation.
Bright red blood:
- Haemorrhoids
- Anal fissure
- Problems with the large intestine
Dark, tar-like stools:
- Stomach or duodenal ulcer
- Oesophageal haemorrhage
When should you seek immediate medical attention:
- Significant blood loss
- Dizziness, weakness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Cold sweats
Bloating and flatulence
Bloating and flatulence are common complaints that can be caused by a number of factors:
Normally:
- Eating foods that cause flatulence (beans, cabbage, pulses)
- Eating too quickly, swallowing air
- Fizzy drinks
In pathological cases:
- Lactose intolerance
- Gluten intolerance
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Bacterial overgrowth
When to see a doctor:
- If you have persistent and distressing symptoms
- If accompanied by weight loss or diarrhoea
- If it is accompanied by abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can be symptoms of a wide range of digestive and other conditions.
Common causes:
- Gastritis
- Food poisoning
- Strawberries
- Pancreatitis
- Delayed gastric emptying
Distress signals:
- Fresh blood or a coffee-ground-like substance in the vomit
- Severe abdominal pain
- Jaundice
- Confusion, loss of consciousness
- Signs of dehydration
Liver and gallbladder complaints
Jaundice (icterus)
A yellowish discolouration of the skin and the whites of the eyes always requires thorough investigation.
Possible causes:
- Hepatitis
- Strawberries
- Pancreatic tumour
- Bile duct obstruction
Accompanying symptoms:
- Dark urine
- Light-coloured stools
- Itch
- Fatigue
Pain beneath the right rib cage
Pain in the area around the liver and gallbladder may be a sign of various conditions:
Common complaints:
- Biliary colic: severe, cramp-like pain that radiates into the back, between the shoulder blades
- Hepatitis: a dull, pressing pain
- Cholangitis: constant pain, fever
Warning signs that require immediate medical attention
If you experience certain symptoms, seek urgent medical attention or call an ambulance:
- Vomit: fresh red or coffee-ground-like vomit
- Severe abdominal pain: sudden, severe pain
- High fever with chills: particularly when accompanied by abdominal pain
- Signs of severe dehydration: dizziness, rapid heartbeat, reduced urine output
- Sudden weight loss: 5-1 Unexplained weight loss
- Signs of anaemia: pallor, weakness, dizziness
- Persistent vomiting: which is why he cannot eat or drink
When should you see a gastroenterologist?
A consultation with a specialist is recommended in the following cases:
Symptoms requiring upper endoscopy:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Pain when swallowing
- Anaemia
- Recurrent vomiting
- Persistent heartburn (particularly in people over 40)
Symptoms requiring a colonoscopy:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Anaemia of unknown cause
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Bloody stools
- Weight loss of unknown cause
Diagnostic options
Laboratory tests
Blood test:
- Inflammatory markers
- Diagnosis of anaemia
- Liver and pancreas values
- Electrolyte balance
Stool analysis:
- Detection of occult blood
- Inflammatory markers
- Searching for pathogens
- Signs of digestive problems
Imaging studies
Abdominal ultrasound:
- Examination of the liver, gallbladder and pancreas
- Detection of fluid accumulation
- Search for tumours
CT or MRI scan:
- More detailed imaging
- Clarifying complex cases
Endoscopic examinations
Gastroscopy (gastroscopy of the stomach):
- Examination of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum
- Option to take a tissue sample
- Haemostasis
Colonoscopy (colonoscopy of the colon):
- Examination of the large bowel and rectum
- Removal of polyps
- Early detection of tumours
How can you prepare for the tests?
Before a gastroscopy:
- 6–8 hours on an empty stomach
- Talk to your doctor about taking medication
- Bring someone with you
Before a colonoscopy:
- A special diet 1–2 days beforehand
- Taking a laxative
- Do not eat solid food during the day
- Hydration
Lifestyle advice for a healthy digestive system
Nutrition
Recommended:
- A diet rich in fibre (vegetables, fruit, whole grains)
- Adequate fluid intake (at least 2 litres per day)
- Regular meals in small portions
- Eating slowly and calmly
To be avoided:
- Foods that are too fatty or heavy
- Spicy, hot foods (if you suffer from acid reflux)
- Excessive consumption of fizzy drinks
- Large amounts of alcohol
Lifestyle
- Regular physical activity
- Stress management
- A good night’s sleep
- Stopping smoking
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to have bowel movements several times a day?
Yes, having a bowel movement 1–3 times a day is normal. There can be significant differences between individuals.
How often should you have a colonoscopy?
For those aged 50 and over, screening is recommended every 10 years if there are no abnormal findings. More frequent screening is recommended in cases of a family history of the condition or if symptoms are present.
Does heartburn always mean you have acid reflux?
Not necessarily. Other digestive problems can also cause similar symptoms, so it’s worth getting it checked out.
How long do acute gastrointestinal infections last?
Usually within 1–3 days, but full recovery can take up to 1–2 weeks.
Is it dangerous if I occasionally see blood in my stools?
You should see a doctor whenever you have blood in your stools, even if you suspect you have haemorrhoids. It is important to rule out any more serious causes.
Summary
Digestive problems can take many different forms and have a variety of causes. Although many symptoms are harmless and temporary, there are some warning signs that require immediate medical attention.
If you have any persistent or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and prevent more serious complications.
From Endomedix Our experienced specialists at the gastroenterology clinic are on hand to help investigate and treat your symptoms. Thanks to our modern diagnostic equipment and personalised care, we are able to treat digestive problems effectively.
