Regions such as your stomach, esophagus, large and small intestines, anus, and mouth.
GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE
Chronic acid reflux, where stomach acid flows into the esophagus
Symptoms
Treatments
• Burning chest sensation
• Chronic cough
• Hoarseness
• Trouble swallowing
• Symptoms that worsen during pregnancy
• Lifestyle changes
• Acid-reducing medications
• Weight management
• Surgery in severe cases
How Dangerous Is It?
Usually not life-threatening, but it can lead to esophageal damage or cancer if untreated.
GASTRITIS
Inflammation of the stomach lining
Symptoms
Treatments
• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Acid-reducing medications
• Antibiotics if caused by H. pylori
• Avoid NSAIDs and alcohol
How Dangerous Is It?
Can lead to ulcers or bleeding if severe.
PEPTIC ULCER
Open sore in the stomach or small intestine
Symptoms
Treatments
• Burning stomach pain
• Nausea
• Black stools if bleeding
• Antibiotics
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Surgery if severe
How Dangerous Is It?
Can cause life-threatening bleeding.
IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Chronic disorder affecting bowel function. More common in women.
Symptoms
Treatments
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea or
constipation
• Symptoms worsen
around menstruation
• Diet changes
• Stress management
• Medications
How Dangerous Is It?
Not life-threatening, but it affects quality of life.
CROHN’S DISEASE
Autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease
Symptoms
Treatments
• Chronic diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Irregular periods during flares
• Immunosuppressive medications
• Biologics
• Surgery
How Dangerous Is It?
Can cause severe malnutrition and complications.
ULCERATIVE COLITIS
Chronic inflammation of the colon
Symptoms
Treatments
• Bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Biologics
• Surgery
How Dangerous Is It?
Increases colon cancer risk over time.
GALLSTONES
Hardened deposits in the gallbladder. More common in women due to estrogen.
Symptoms
Treatments
• Right upper abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Pain after fatty meals
• Gallbladder removal surgery
How Dangerous Is It?
Can cause infection or pancreatitis.
PANCREATITIS
Inflammation of the pancreas
Symptoms
Treatments
• Severe upper abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hospital care
• IV fluids
• Treat underlying cause
How Dangerous Is It?
Can be life-threatening.
COLORECTAL CANCER
Cancer of the colon or rectum
Symptoms
Treatments
• Rectal bleeding
• Change in bowel habits
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
How Dangerous Is It?
Can be fatal if diagnosed late.