Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Understanding Digestive Issues

Digestive issues encompass a broad range of conditions that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. These conditions can result from various factors, such as lifestyle choices, dietary habits, genetics, infections, or underlying medical conditions. Digestive issues can manifest in different ways, ranging from mild discomfort to chronic conditions that significantly impact daily life.

Common Digestive Disorders

There are numerous digestive disorders that individuals may encounter. Some of the most common ones include:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A chronic condition characterized by acid reflux, heartburn, and regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A functional disorder of the colon that causes abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, and discomfort.
3. Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often resulting from infection, certain medications, or excessive alcohol consumption.
4. Peptic Ulcers: Open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or upper portion of the small intestine, usually caused by an infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori or long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
5. Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis: Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases that cause inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other digestive disorders that individuals may face. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Recognizing Digestive Symptoms

Digestive symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific disorder and individual circumstances. Common signs of digestive issues may include:

1. Abdominal pain or cramping.
2. Bloating or distention of the abdomen.
3. Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both).
4. Heartburn or acid reflux.
5. Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
6. Blood in stool or black, tarry stools.
7. Unexplained weight loss.

Prevention and Treatment

Maintaining good digestive health is crucial for overall well-being. Here are some general tips for promoting a healthy digestive system:

1. Follow a balanced diet: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and greasy/fried foods. Be mindful of portion sizes.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to support proper digestion and prevent constipation.
3. Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect digestion. Incorporate stress management techniques such as exercise, relaxation exercises, or mindfulness practices into your routine.
4. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
5. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, especially before meals, to minimize the risk of bacterial or viral infections.

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM AND IBS

While there is not one singular cause of IBS, both medical doctors and chiropractors have linked nervous system miscommunications with irritable bowel syndrome. The brain and your digestive system are linked and spinal misalignments housing the nervous system may impact the brain’s ability to communicate with your stomach and intestines properly. Chiropractors have identified spinal misalignments, also referred to as subluxations, in nearly all individuals who report symptoms of IBS. When the brain and intestinal tract are unable to communicate properly, this can affect the way your digestive system responds.

The “Synapse Approach” investigates IBS looking for neurological dysfunction, musculoskeletal dysfunction, hormonal dysregulation, and/or chemical dysregulation. Using this method Dr. Waterson is successful at finding the root cause and allowing the patients body to heal naturally.

Call Today for IBS and digestive issue treatment in Lewes Delaware!