Conditions, Disorders and Diseases of the Digestive System

There are many conditions, diseases and disorders that affect the operation of the digestive system. The digestive system has many parts that have a role in the process of digestion including the digestive tract; esophagus, stomach and intestines, the liver and the pancreas

A condition, like indigestion, while it can make a person feel uncomfortable, usually gets better with little or no treatment. There are diseases that can have long-term impact on the functioning of the digestive system, for example, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). If a person has IBD, a specialist called a gastroenterologist is called upon to help the individual cope with the disease.

There are three common conditions that individual can have that affect the esophagus: Esophageal atresia and Tracheoesophageal fistula are congenital conditions. These conditions are typically detected soon after birth and both necessitate surgery in order for the digestive systems of babies with these conditions to work.

Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus and is a non-congenital condition. Those who have esophagitis frequently have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD.) GERD can sometimes be healed with lifestyle changes such as making food selection changes but usually medication is required to bring relief to the person. Sometimes taking a certain medication or infection can cause esophagitis.

We've all suffered from an occasional bout of diarrhea and constipation. Other not so common stomach and intestinal disorders are:

Celiac disease, which is caused by an atypical response that the immune system has to a protein called gluten found in certain foods that we eat. When individuals with Celiac disease eat foods that contain gluten, damage can be done to the lining of the intestines. Symptoms that they may experience are: bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain,.

Gastritis a condition in which the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or irritated and peptic ulcers (sores or holes) form in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. This causes pain and bleeding. Medications can relieve both of these conditions.

A chronic inflammation of the intestines that affects older children, teens, and adults is IDB. There are two types of IBD; ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Both are treated with medications, and if needed surgery to remove damaged parts of the intestine.

Cystic fibrosis, which is a chronic, inherited disease, causes the production of thick mucus, which blocks the ducts in the pancreas. This blockage prevents digestive enzymes from entering the intestines. Without these enzymes it is difficult to breakdown and digest proteins and fats. When proteins and fats are not digested they pass through the body without being used.

Hepatitis, which is a viral infection of the liver can cause liver damage.

Cholecystitis occurs when the gallbladder becomes inflamed and gallstones can develop. While teens are especially susceptible to cholecystitis, especially if they have sickle cell anemia or have been treated with certain long-term medications.