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Your digestive system works silently behind the scenes every day — breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and helping your body eliminate waste. But when something goes wrong in this complex system, it can affect nearly every aspect of your well-being. That’s where gastrointestinal (GI) diseases come into the picture.
From occasional stomach cramps to chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or acid reflux, GI disorders are more common than you might think. And while some problems can be managed at home with simple dietary changes, others require expert intervention. Fortunately, for residents of Pune and nearby areas, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, is home to experienced gastroenterologists offering comprehensive care for a wide range of digestive issues.
Let’s dive into the details of what GI diseases are, their symptoms, causes, and the treatments available today.
Synopsis
Understanding Gastrointestinal (GI) Diseases
Gastrointestinal diseases refer to health conditions that affect the digestive tract, a system that includes the mouth, oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and more. These disorders may involve inflammation, infection, blockage, abnormal movement, or structural changes.
While some conditions, like food poisoning, resolve on their own, others, like ulcerative colitis or celiac disease, require long-term management and medical support.
At Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, patients can access everything from advanced diagnostic procedures (like endoscopy and colonoscopy) to surgical interventions, nutritional counselling, and follow-up care under one roof.
Most Common Gastrointestinal Conditions
Here’s a closer look at the digestive diseases that affect millions of people worldwide:
1. Acid Reflux and GERD
Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation (heartburn). When this happens regularly, it may be diagnosed as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Left untreated, GERD can lead to ulcers or even oesophageal cancer.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a functional bowel disorder that causes symptoms like cramping, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation. It doesn’t damage the intestines, but it can significantly impact your day-to-day life.
3. Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis (IBD)
These chronic inflammatory bowel diseases cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fatigue, and unintended weight loss.
4. Celiac Disease
An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten (a protein in wheat) damages the small intestine lining. It leads to poor absorption of nutrients and a range of digestive and non-digestive symptoms.
5. Gallstones and Gallbladder Disorders
Gallstones are hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause sudden pain, especially after meals. If untreated, they may lead to inflammation or infection.
6. Fatty Liver Disease and Hepatitis
Conditions like Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) are becoming increasingly common due to sedentary lifestyles and poor diets. Viral hepatitis can also affect liver function and overall health.
7. Peptic Ulcers
These are open sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, usually caused by H. pylori bacteria or long-term use of painkillers like NSAIDs.
At Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, our multidisciplinary GI team tailors treatment plans based on the severity and type of disease to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Common Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Digestive diseases can be silent at first, but certain symptoms are red flags that something may be wrong. Common GI symptoms include:
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Persistent stomach or abdominal pain
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Bloating and excessive gas
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Nausea or vomiting
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Difficulty swallowing
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Heartburn or acid reflux
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Diarrhoea or constipation lasting more than a few days
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Blood in stool or black, tarry stools
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Sudden weight loss without trying
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Ongoing fatigue or weakness
If these symptoms last more than a few days or keep recurring, don’t ignore them. Timely diagnosis at centres like Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, can make a significant difference, especially in chronic or progressive conditions.
Why Do Gastrointestinal Disorders Occur?
The causes of GI diseases are varied. Some stem from lifestyle habits, while others may be linked to genetics or autoimmune processes.
Key Causes Include:
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Poor diet (low fibre, high fat, processed foods)
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Sedentary lifestyle
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Infections (e.g., H. pylori, parasites, viruses)
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Medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics)
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Food intolerances/allergies (lactose, gluten)
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Stress and anxiety
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Smoking and alcohol use
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Family history of GI conditions
Diagnosis and Treatment Options at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi
Modern medicine has revolutionised how we approach GI health. From endoscopic imaging to targeted therapies, diagnosing and treating digestive disorders has become far more precise and effective.
Diagnostic Tools Include:
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Blood and stool tests
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Upper GI endoscopy
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Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy
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Ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI
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Liver function tests
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Biopsy and genetic testing (if needed)
Treatment Approaches:
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
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Small changes can have a big impact. Doctors often recommend:
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Increasing fibre intake
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Avoiding known trigger foods (like caffeine or spicy items)
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Eating smaller meals
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Managing stress with yoga, exercise, or therapy
2. Medications
These vary depending on the condition:
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Antacids and PPIs for acid reflux
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Antibiotics for infections
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Laxatives or stool softeners for constipation
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Anti-diarrheal drugs
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Immunosuppressants for IBD
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, offers endoscopic treatments such as:
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Removal of polyps
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Balloon dilation for strictures
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Stenting for obstruction
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ERCP for gallstones or bile duct issues
4. Surgical Care
In more serious cases, such as bowel obstruction, severe ulcerative colitis, or cancers, surgery may be necessary. Manipal Hospital’s GI surgery unit specialises in:
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Laparoscopic bowel surgeries
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Gallbladder removal
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Liver and pancreatic procedures
How to Prevent Digestive Diseases
Although not all GI diseases are preventable, many can be avoided with the right lifestyle habits:
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Eat a balanced, fibre-rich diet
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Stay hydrated
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Avoid unnecessary medications
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Get regular physical activity
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Manage stress effectively
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Limit alcohol and quit smoking
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Get routine checkups, especially after age 40
The team at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, also offers preventive screenings, colonoscopies, and health check-up packages designed to catch issues before they become serious.
Conclusion
Digestive problems are often shrugged off as minor annoyances. But if ignored, they can develop into chronic or even life-threatening conditions. The key is early diagnosis, effective treatment, and consistent follow-up — all of which are offered at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, under the expert care of experienced gastroenterologists.
Your digestive health plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Take charge of your gut health today — because a healthier gut means a healthier you.
FAQ's
IBS is a functional condition causing symptoms without visible damage, while IBD (like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis) involves actual inflammation and structural damage to the intestines.
Not quite. Occasional heartburn is common, but GERD is diagnosed when acid reflux happens frequently (more than twice a week) and causes complications.
Yes, kids can suffer from acid reflux, lactose intolerance, constipation, and even IBD. Pediatric gastroenterologists can help manage these conditions effectively.
Absolutely. There’s a strong brain-gut connection. Stress, anxiety, and depression can worsen GI symptoms, particularly in IBS and functional dyspepsia.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, blood in stools, frequent heartburn, or unexplained weight loss, book a consultation with our gastroenterology team at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, for timely and effective care.
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