The GI tract includes the Upper GI (mouth, esophagus, stomach, duodenum), Small Intestine (nutrient absorption), Large Intestine/Colon (water absorption, stool formation), and Accessory Organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas).

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) : Functional disorder (pain, bloating, altered bowel habits) due to gut-brain issues
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) : Stomach acid reflux into the esophagus
• Constipation : Infrequent/difficult stools, often due to low fiber or dehydration
• Diarrhea : Frequent, loose stools, caused by infections, intolerances, etc
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) : Chronic inflammation (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis) with actual tissue damage
• Food Intolerances/Allergies : Difficulty digesting or immune reaction to certain foods
• Diverticular Disease : Pouches in the colon; diverticulitis when inflamed
• Gallstones : Hardened deposits in the gallbladder causing pain
• Pancreatitis : Pancreas inflammation, often from gallstones or alcohol

Vary widely, but common signs include:

• Abdominal Pain or Cramping
• Bloating and Gas
• Heartburn/Acid Reflux
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Changes in Bowel Habits  (diarrhea/constipation)
• Blood in Stool
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Difficulty Swallowing, Loss of Appetite, Rectal Bleeding

Involves:

• Medical History & Physical Examination
• Blood Tests : For anemia, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies
• Stool Tests : For infections, blood, malabsorption
• Imaging Tests : X-rays, Ultrasound, CT, MRI, Barium Studies
• Endoscopic Procedures : Upper Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy, Capsule Endoscopy, ERCP to visualize GI tract
• Breath Tests : For lactose intolerance, SIBO

Tailored to cause and severity:

• Lifestyle & Dietary Modifications : Avoiding triggers, increasing fiber, hydration, stress management, exercise
• Medications : Antacids, laxatives, anti-diarrhea, antispasmodics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, probiotics
• Procedures & Interventions : Endoscopic therapies (polyp removal, stricture dilation), gallstone removal, surgery for severe cases (IBD, obstruction)

The liver is made of:

• Balanced Diet (rich in fiber), Hydration
• Regular Exercise & Stress Management
• Limit Processed Foods, Chew Thoroughly, Avoid Overeating
• Probiotic Foods

If untreated, can lead to:

• Nutrient Deficiencies, Anemia, Chronic Pain, Weight Loss/Malnutrition
• Strictures or Obstructions, Perforation
• Increased Cancer Risk (e.g., in IBD)
• Systemic issues from chronic inflammation

Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for effective symptom control and preventing long-term complications.