22.09.2014 10:11

Entry into the body of the proper amount of nutrients is the most important factor in ensuring the normal functioning of a person. The process of intake of vitamins and minerals necessary for the body is provided by the digestive organs. Diseases of the digestive system disrupt the normal supply of nutrients to the body and, as a result, disrupt the functioning of literally all systems and organs. That is why the treatment of diseases affecting the digestive system must be diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.

How are the digestive organs arranged?

Diseases of the digestive system can affect different organs, which anatomy divides into several sections. The process of digestion begins with the pre-processing of food, which is carried out in the oral cavity. From there, food travels down the throat, then into the esophagus, and finally into the main digestive organ, the stomach.

The stomach, consisting of muscles, has in its internal cavity many glands that produce gastric juice and hydrochloric acid. Food broken down by the above liquids begins to move into the duodenum, which is the initial section of the intestine. Here, the digested food is exposed to bile and pancreatic juice.

Of course, a large number of organs contributes to a variety of ailments - diseases of the digestive system are numerous, painful and can significantly reduce the quality of life.

The longest section of the digestive system is the small intestine. In it, food is finally broken down, and nutrients safely penetrate into the blood. The process of digestion in the large intestine is completed - undigested food remains enter it, which are excreted from the body due to the movement of the large intestine.

Diseases of the digestive system can also affect such organs as the liver and pancreas. It is thanks to these two important organs, as well as the salivary and microscopic glands, that the process of digestion occurs. The liver is responsible for the production of bile, and the pancreas is responsible for insulin and the enzymes necessary for the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The salivary glands are responsible for softening the food eaten.

Only the well-coordinated and clear work of the digestive system allows us to talk about the normal state of the body, the slightest disturbances and failures in this complex biological mechanism provoke certain diseases of the digestive system. We have to admit that today violations in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract are a very common phenomenon. Improper nutrition, stress, unhealthy food, chronic diseases - all these factors increase the risk of joining the ranks of patients suffering from gastrointestinal diseases. The most common diseases of the digestive system are, first of all, gastritis, dysbacteriosis, duodenitis, peptic ulcer of the duodenum and stomach, reflux esophagitis, erosive bulbitis, food poisoning, intestinal obstruction and many other ailments. Each of the above diseases should be treated competently and in a timely manner. Ignoring the diseases of the digestive system, the patient, due to a violation of the supply of nutrients to the blood, endangers the health of the whole organism.

Causes of diseases of the digestive system

Diseases of the digestive system depend on many specific factors. Doctors, on the other hand, classify all the existing causes that provoke the diseases in question into two categories - internal and external. The fundamental role influencing the occurrence of a particular disease of the digestive system is undoubtedly played by external causes:
. the use of harmful and low-quality food;
. the use of liquids harmful to the body;
. misuse or misuse of medications.

Diseases of the digestive system are often the result of an unbalanced diet. It, in particular, is expressed in excess or, on the contrary, in insufficient consumption of proteins, fats, carbohydrates. Often, diseases of the digestive system become the result of carelessness and a frivolous attitude to the diet and health in general, we are talking, first of all, about the following:
. prolonged neglect of regular nutrition;
. excessive consumption of spicy, salty and very hot foods;
. the presence of preservatives in daily food.

That is why diseases of the digestive system are so dependent on the diet, diet and the quality of the products consumed. The amount of harmful foods in the diet should be minimized, and even better - reduced to zero. At the first symptoms indicating a particular disease of the digestive system, you should immediately review your diet, excluding from it all foods that are undesirable for the body.

No less harm to the digestive system is caused by the thoughtless use of essentially harmful liquids - alcohol and its surrogates, soda, and other drinks with preservatives and dyes.

The next factor that increases the risk of developing any disease of the digestive system is smoking. Stress, experiences are also very common provocateurs of the ailments in question.

Among the internal causes of diseases of the digestive system are:
. malformations of intrauterine development;
. hereditary factors;
. autoimmune processes.

The main symptom that accompanies diseases of the digestive system is the pain that occurs in the digestive tract. The intensity of pain varies, it depends on the specific disease.
1. Cholecystitis. This disease of the digestive system is accompanied by pain spreading along the hypochondrium - right or left.
2. Pancreatitis. It is accompanied by girdle pain of incomprehensible localization. Often the pain radiates between the shoulder blades or in the region of the heart.
3. Gastric ulcer. Perforation of a stomach ulcer causes sharp, intense pain.

The pains can be sharp and aching, weak and intense, they can also depend on the food eaten. So, for example, patients with pancreatitis and cholecystitis, after eating fatty foods, experience unpleasant pain. And with a stomach ulcer, an increase in pain begins if a person does not take food for a long time. But pain in hyperacid gastritis can be removed by drinking milk.

At the first suspicion of the presence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the doctor, conducting a thorough examination, uses the following diagnostic methods:
. palpation;
. auscultation;
. percussion.

The doctor, when diagnosing, is also interested in the patient's complaints in detail, studies the anamnesis.

Usually, diseases of the digestive system require all kinds of laboratory tests:
. general blood analysis;
. blood chemistry;
. stool analysis;
. Analysis of urine.

Also, the following research methods can be used for diagnosis:
. radiation;
. Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity;
. fluoroscopy with contrast agents;
. radiography;
. MRI and CT.

In addition, some diseases of the digestive system may require the procedures necessary to assess the condition of the internal organs and at the same time obtain material for biopsy. These are the following procedures:
. colonoscopy;
. sigmoidoscopy;
. esophagogastroduodenoscopy;
. laparoscopy.

To examine the stomach in detail, functional tests can be used to obtain information about its motor function and acid secretion. In addition, tests allow you to examine the condition of the small intestine and pancreas.

Treatment of diseases of the digestive system

The scheme by which treatment is performed depends on the specific ailment diagnosed in the patient. Diseases of the digestive system, like any ailments, require timely and competent treatment in order to prevent, firstly, complications, and, secondly, the transition of an acute stage into a chronic form.

After conducting the necessary research, the doctor, based on the results obtained, draws up a therapy regimen. The most important stage in the treatment of the vast majority of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract is, undoubtedly, a special diet. In the acute form of the disease, the patient can be prescribed parenteral nutrition for a certain time - it provides the supply of all useful substances directly to the blood. Then, the recovering person is prescribed a normal diet, however, foods that can provoke the return of symptoms of the disease are eliminated from the diet.

Diseases of the digestive system are often treated in stages. For example, acute gastritis is treated as follows:
. normalize the excretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract;
. treat the patient with antibiotics;
. prescribe drugs that allow the cells of the gastric mucosa to renew themselves and normalize metabolism.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are often cured in a matter of weeks, and it happens that it takes years to cure them. As a rule, the speed of treatment is affected by the timeliness of diagnosis. So, in particular, it is extremely important to diagnose diseases of the digestive system in children in time - this allows you to minimize the time of treatment.

Often, when diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are detected, patients are prescribed complex treatment - it, as a rule, brings the maximum effect. For example, with a stomach ulcer, the patient is first recommended to eliminate the causes that provoke the development of the disease. Then the doctor prescribes a course that includes medication and diet. At the same time, such treatment methods as physiotherapy, magnetotherapy, laser therapy and others can be prescribed.

In order for the treatment to be successful, the patient himself must be aware of the importance of preventing gastrointestinal diseases. He needs, in particular, to change his lifestyle - eat right, get rid of bad habits, observe sleep patterns.

Today, diseases are often diagnosed without any manifestation of clinical symptoms. We are talking about chronic ischemic disease of the digestive system - it is provoked by damage to the visceral arteries of the abdominal aorta. This disease causes a violation of the patency of the above-mentioned arteries. A detailed diagnosis is extremely important here, otherwise the treatment will not be effective. Patients with such a problem are shown a special diet (a ban on foods that cause flatulence; the patient should eat a little, but often). Treatment is carried out by means of antispasmodic drugs, as well as agents that normalize blood circulation.

The lack of effect with conservative therapy forces physicians to resort to surgical intervention. There are two options for operations - low-traumatic and abdominal.

Prevention of gastrointestinal diseases

Diseases of the digestive system require mandatory preventive measures, which consist primarily in organizing proper nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. To prevent diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, it is necessary to engage in daily physical activity, actively relax and get enough sleep.

A separate preventive measure is regular preventive examinations, which are needed even in the absence of any alarming symptoms. It would be useful to know that people who have crossed the forty-year milestone should have an abdominal ultrasound done annually.

The issue of nutrition is very important in the prevention of gastrointestinal diseases. Nutrition plays almost a key role in the development of the diseases in question. That is why it is so important to eat right - regularly, balanced and varied. Eating should be moderate in nature - overeating is unacceptable. You can not eat until you feel full. You should get up from the table slightly hungry.

For a well-coordinated and accurate work of the digestive system, raw vegetables and fruits should be present in the diet every day. Food must be exceptionally fresh. It should be eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly. You need to eat 4-5 times a day, observing the meal regimen. The diet should not be filled with excessively hot and cold food. Over time, you should stop eating all refined carbohydrates and limit your salt intake.

To maintain its vital activity, the human body must regularly receive vitamins, trace elements and other nutrients. The digestive system is responsible for this process, the functioning of which depends on the state of many organs. Any failure in their work can disrupt the well-established mechanism, so diseases of the digestive system must be treated in a timely manner.

How does the digestive system work?

When a person sends food to his mouth, he does not think about its further fate. Meanwhile, bypassing the oral cavity, food then passes through the pharynx, esophagus and enters the stomach. In this organ, food is broken down by the action of gastric juice containing hydrochloric acid. Then the primary processed food moves into the initial section of the intestine - the duodenum. Bile is responsible for its splitting in this organ. The final processing of food is carried out by the small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed into the blood. Finally, undigested food residues are sent to the large intestine and, under the influence of its motor functions, are removed from the body. It should be noted that the liver and pancreas are also involved in the process of digestion.

Diseases

If the work of at least one of the above organs is disrupted, the digestive system can no longer function normally. People develop various diseases, and recently this has been happening quite often. There are many diseases of the digestive system. The most common diseases are gastric ulcer and colitis, gastroduodenitis, reflux esophagitis, dyskinesia of the gastrointestinal tract, intestinal obstruction, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, constipation, diarrhea.

Causes

The development of diseases of the digestive system depends on many factors. There are a variety of specific and provoking factors, but doctors identify external and internal causes of these pathologies. First of all, external causes negatively affect the digestive organs: the use of poor-quality food, excessive smoking, stressful situations, and prolonged use of medications.

The internal causes of diseases of the digestive system include autoimmune processes occurring in the human body, malformations of intrauterine development, hereditary predisposition. Sometimes the consequence of the development of any one disease is the presence of two or more predisposing factors.

Symptoms

Pain syndrome of varying severity is the main symptom characteristic of most diseases of the digestive organs. However, pain manifests itself in different ways. It can be aching, or intense and sharp, as with an exacerbation of a stomach ulcer. With pancreatitis, the pain is girdle in nature, gives under the shoulder blades or in the region of the heart. Cholecystitis is accompanied by pain sensations that are localized in the region of the right or left hypochondrium. Food intake plays an important role in the development of pain syndrome. In particular, with peptic ulcer pain occurs mainly on an empty stomach, and with pancreatitis or cholecystitis after eating fatty foods.

Another common symptom that signals problems in the gastrointestinal tract is dyspepsia. It comes in two varieties. Upper dyspepsia is belching, heartburn, loss of appetite, feeling of fullness in the epigastric region, nausea, and vomiting. Lower dyspepsia is manifested in (flatulence), diarrhea or constipation. Manifestations of a particular dyspepsia depend on the specific disease of the digestive organs.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment of diseases of the digestive system consists in taking appropriate medications and following a diet. The main thing is to correctly diagnose the disease that has appeared and try to avoid the transition of the existing disease into a chronic form.

Problems associated with the work of the stomach or intestines cause discomfort in any person. Therefore, the prevention of diseases of the digestive system plays an important role. It is necessary to take care of a balanced diet, be physically active, have a good rest, give up bad habits, and learn how to deal with stress. And upon reaching the age of 40, you should regularly undergo an ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs. Take care of your health!

Chapter 2

Diseases of the digestive system are the third most common after diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Methods for diagnosing these diseases are constantly being improved. In recent years, such examination methods as ultrasound examination (ultrasound) of the abdominal cavity, as well as fibrogastroscopy, colonoscopy, scanning, X-ray methods, and organ biopsy have been introduced into clinical practice.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract include all diseases of the stomach and duodenum (gastritis, colitis, etc.), diseases of the intestines (thick and thin), diseases of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas.

Chronic gastritis

Chronic gastritis is the most common disease of the digestive system. In many countries, more than 90% of the population suffers from gastritis, but even in European countries, such as Finland or Sweden, chronic gastritis is observed in 60% of the population. Recently, the disease has significantly "rejuvenated". Even at the age of 5–6 years, cases of chronic gastritis have been reported.

This disease is characterized by damage to the gastric mucosa (Fig. 2), in which the glands that produce hydrochloric acid, pepsin, and mucus suffer. With gastritis, the processes of cell regeneration worsen, and as a result, the function of the stomach is disturbed. These disorders can be of two types: elevated levels of hydrochloric acid (chronic gastritis with increased secretory activity) and low levels of hydrochloric acid (chronic gastritis with reduced secretory activity).

Rice. 2

The causes of chronic gastritis are varied. The most common are caused by malnutrition: malnutrition, overeating, irregular meals, eating rough, spicy foods, alcohol. These factors, although they certainly play a large role in the development of chronic gastritis, are not its root cause. Are there many people who eat absolutely right in the conditions of modern life? How many people consume high-quality natural products? But not everyone suffers from chronic gastritis.

As shown by studies of recent years, made in the largest institutions in Europe and America, the root cause of the disease may be immune disorders in the body (production of antibodies to mucous membrane cells). The cause of the disease can be special acid-resistant bacteria that can live in a very acidic environment of the stomach. Experts also consider hereditary predisposition to the disease to be an important factor.

For the diagnosis of chronic gastritis, fibrogastroscopy, examination of gastric juice, X-ray examination of the stomach are used. With fibrogastroscopy, a thin probe is inserted into the stomach, with the help of which the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum is examined.

In chronic gastritis with increased secretory activity, patients are concerned about stomach pain that occurs on an empty stomach, and sometimes at night, heartburn, belching, and a tendency to constipation. This gastritis is considered a pre-ulcerative condition, and the principles of its treatment are the same as for peptic ulcer disease.

If chronic gastritis with reduced secretory activity is observed, then it is not pain that bothers, but a feeling of fullness in the stomach, heaviness after eating, nausea, and sometimes diarrhea. In the treatment of this type of gastritis, gastric juice, acidin-pepsin, and abomin are recommended. It is advisable to use highly mineralized waters ("Slavyanskaya", "Smirnovskaya", "Arzni", "Essentuki", etc.) in a cool form, with gas. Instead, you can use decoctions of medicinal herbs: plantain, chamomile, St. John's wort, calendula flowers, mint, wormwood.

To restore the gastric mucosa, multivitamins, pentoxyl, riboxyl, sea buckthorn are recommended. Invaluable in chronic gastritis are therapeutic nutrition, cleansing diets, massage of the abdomen. Chronic gastritis is dangerous because it contributes to the development of other diseases of the digestive system, including stomach cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to use all possible means for the treatment of this disease.

Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum

Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum is a chronic disease characterized by the formation of ulcerative defects of the mucosa (Fig. 3).

Rice. 3

A stomach ulcer is formed for several reasons: due to increased production of hydrochloric acid, which causes inflammation of the mucosa and the formation of an ulcer, or due to the loss of the ability of the gastric mucosa to defend itself against aggressive gastric juice. Factors of aggression are called factors of the first group, factors of protection - factors of the second group.

Aggression factors include: an excess of hydrochloric acid and pepsin (an increased number of specialized stomach cells that produce these substances), accelerated gastric motility, that is, the rapid advancement of food that has not had time to undergo sufficient processing from the stomach to the duodenum; bile acids and pancreatic enzymes that can enter the stomach, as well as other causes. Therefore, an exacerbation of peptic ulcer can be provoked by conditions that affect factors of aggression: alcohol, smoking, eating disorders, bacteria that cause chronic gastritis.

Protective factors include mucus produced in the stomach, the ability to regenerate mucosal cells, sufficient blood flow, the alkaline component of pancreatic juice, etc. Protective factors weaken in chronic gastritis, stress, beriberi, and chronic diseases. An imbalance between the factors of aggression and defense leads to the formation of an ulcer.

Peptic ulcer is diagnosed using fibrogastroduodenoscopy with a biopsy (pinching off) of a piece of mucosa near the ulcer for examination. Only the tumor nature of the ulcer is excluded.

Peptic ulcer has, as a rule, a chronic course, that is, periods of exacerbation are replaced by periods of remission, during which a peptic ulcer is not detected (small scars remain at the site of the ulcer). Peptic ulcer is characterized by seasonal exacerbations: in autumn and spring. It used to be that peptic ulcer disease is a disease more characteristic of young men. However, it is now increasingly occurring in women.

Clinical manifestations of peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum are not the same. For gastric ulcer, pain in the epigastric region is typical 20–30 minutes after eating, while with duodenal ulcer, pain appears on an empty stomach, at night, and, on the contrary, subsides when eating. Peptic ulcer may be accompanied by heartburn, nausea. Sometimes, because the ulcer bleeds, black stools appear. The nature of the pain may also change: sharp dagger pains or constant, persistent, not relieved by drugs. The appearance of liquid black stools and vomiting may indicate complications of peptic ulcer. Properly organized nutrition plays a leading role in the treatment of peptic ulcer, taking into account the stage of the disease, the acidity of the gastric contents, as well as the season of the year.

Drug treatment of peptic ulcer involves the impact of both aggression factors and defense factors. In the first case, drugs are used that reduce the secretion of hydrochloric acid and reduce gastric motility. These are gastrocepin, metacin (contraindicated in glaucoma, as it can cause dry mouth), atropine (contraindicated in glaucoma, because it causes blurred vision, dry mouth, palpitations). This group also includes drugs of a different mechanism of action: cimetidine, tagamet, histodil, ranitidine.

The drugs that reduce the aggressiveness of gastric contents also include antacids that neutralize high acidity: almagel, vikalin, vikair, phosphalugel, magnesium oxide (burnt magnesia), Bourget mixture. The intake of these drugs must be timed to the moment when food, which also has an alkalizing effect, leaves the stomach and free hydrochloric acid can again act on the mucous membrane. That is, it is important to take medications strictly 1.5–2 hours after meals and at night. In the treatment of peptic ulcers, a combination of antacids with one of the above drugs is usually used. For example, almagel and metacin, vikalin and cimetidine, etc.

Means that affect protective factors include drugs such as denol, venter, sucralfate. They create a protective film over the ulcer that prevents the action of gastric juice, and in addition, they have an antacid effect. These drugs can be used alone or combined with the cimetidine and gastrocepin group. Oxyspheriscarbon, solcoseryl, gastrofarm, vinylin, sea buckthorn oil, biogastron, B vitamins, ascorbic acid, methyluracil have always been considered traditional agents that affect ulcer healing. But all of them are not independent, but additional methods of treatment.

Recently, given that microorganisms can be the cause of peptic ulcer, antibacterial agents are used in the treatment: ampicillin, trichopolum, etc. They are combined with drugs of the listed groups.

The duration of ulcer healing is on average 6-8 weeks. Treatment of patients is carried out in a hospital, then at home under the supervision of a doctor. The patient undergoes fibrogastroscopic control at certain intervals. After the acute stage of peptic ulcer has passed, a therapeutic massage is prescribed, which is then replaced by a preventive one.

Gallbladder diseases

Often patients complain of pain in the liver, but in most cases this is due to the pathology of the gallbladder and biliary tract (Fig. 4). These diseases are divided into metabolic (cholelithiasis), inflammatory (cholecystitis), functional (dyskinesia). Dyskinesia passes without inflammatory processes, but with a violation of the motility of the gallbladder. Dyskinesias are observed most often, mainly in young people.

Rice. 4

The gallbladder collects bile from the liver, where it is formed, and in the process of digestion, it contracts to secrete bile, which is necessary for the breakdown of fats. With dyskinesia, there is a violation of the regulation of the gallbladder. The bubble either contracts very poorly (it is in a relaxed state) and bile constantly flows out of it (hypotonic form of dyskinesia), or, conversely, the bladder is spasmodic, contracted, does not secrete bile (hypertonic form of dyskinesia).

In the hypotonic form of the disease, patients often experience aching, dull, prolonged (for several hours, and sometimes days) pain and a feeling of heaviness in the right hypochondrium, which occurs after nervous stress, overwork, as a result of irregular nutrition. With this form of the disease, choleretic agents are indicated that promote the release of bile and contraction of the gallbladder, otherwise the bile will stagnate, which will lead to the formation of stones.

Agents such as xylitol, sorbitol and magnesium sulfate are good to use when performing blind probing (tubage), which is indicated for patients with a hypotonic form of gallbladder dyskinesia and is performed during an exacerbation 2-3 times a week. In the morning, on an empty stomach, they take a solution of magnesia, Karlovy Vary salt or other means: xylitol, sorbitol, two yolks, a glass of mineral water, etc. For 30–40 minutes, the patient lies on his right side with a heating pad. With this form of dyskinesia, highly mineralized waters are shown, applied cold, with gas (30-40 minutes before meals).

Some herbs have a choleretic effect. Peppermint (leaves), shamrock, chamomile (flowers), hawthorn, centaury (grass), thyme, celandine, rhubarb (rhizome), dandelion (root) are used in the treatment.

The nature of nutrition is also very important, since food can contribute to both the formation and excretion of bile. First of all, meals should be regular, frequent (5-6 times a day), preferably at the same time, with the last dose just before bedtime. This contributes to the regular emptying of the biliary tract and eliminates the stagnation of bile. Alcoholic drinks, carbonated water, smoked, fatty, spicy, fried foods and seasonings are excluded from the diet, as they can cause cramps. Dishes and broths 2-3 days old are not recommended, freshly cooked food is shown in a warm form. It should be noted that these are not temporary restrictions, but long-term recommendations.

The diet takes into account the influence of individual nutrients on the normalization of the motor function of the biliary tract. So, with hypertensive dyskinesia, products that stimulate the contraction of the gallbladder should be sharply limited: animal fats, vegetable oils, rich fish, mushroom, meat broths. With hypotension of the gallbladder with impaired bile secretion, patients usually tolerate weak meat broths, fish soup, cream, sour cream, vegetable oil, soft-boiled eggs. Vegetable oil should be consumed in a teaspoon 2-3 times a day half an hour before meals for 2-3 weeks, as it stimulates the production of cholecystokinin.

To prevent constipation, dishes that promote bowel movement are also recommended (carrots, pumpkin, zucchini, greens, watermelons, melons, fruits, raisins, prunes, dried apricots, oranges, honey). Bran has a pronounced effect on the motility of the biliary tract. One tablespoon is brewed with boiling water and added to various side dishes in the form of gruel. The dose of bran is increased until the stool normalizes. Nutrition should be complete, with a sufficient content of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, as well as enriched with dietary fiber, vitamins. Animal fats and sweets limit.

In the hypotonic form of gallbladder dyskinesia, massage and physiotherapy exercises are shown that affect the tone of the gallbladder; special massaging and morning exercises, including exercises for the muscles of the body and abdominals in a standing position, sitting, lying on the right side. Also important are sports, sufficient sleep, and in some cases, the treatment of neurotic disorders.

The hypertensive variant of gallbladder dyskinesia is characterized by acute paroxysmal pain in the right hypochondrium, radiating to the right shoulder blade, shoulder, neck and arising after stress, with irregular nutrition, the use of foods that cause spasm of the gallbladder (wine, coffee, chocolate, ice cream, lemonade).

For the treatment of this variant of dyskinesia, choleretic agents that promote the formation of bile (choleretics) and antispasmodics are used. Choleretics include allochol, cholenzym, oxaphenamide, flamin, tsikvalon, etc. Antispasmodics include noshpa, halidor, papaverine, metacin. Tubazhi with this form of dyskinesia should be carried out carefully, with the same means, but taking two tablets of noshpa, halidor or other antispasmodics 20 minutes before the procedure. Mineral waters of weak mineralization are used warm, without gas, 30 minutes before meals. Meals should be frequent, regular, at the same time. In addition, choleretic herbs are recommended in the form of heat before meals.

Diagnosis of dyskinesias is carried out using ultrasound, cholecystography (X-ray examination after taking special radiopaque tablets) and duodenal sounding. Untimely treatment of gallbladder dyskinesia contributes to the development of cholecystitis and gallstone disease.

Cholecystitis is an inflammatory disease of the gallbladder resulting from its infection. Clinical manifestations resemble gallbladder dyskinesia: the appearance of pain after taking fatty, fried foods, spicy snacks, eggs, wine, beer, as well as during exercise, shaking. Signs of inflammation may also appear: fever, weakness, decreased performance, bitterness in the mouth, nausea, sometimes vomiting, diarrhea.

For diagnosis, the same methods are used (with the exception of probing) in combination with a blood test. Acute cholecystitis, which occurs with severe pain, is subject to treatment in surgical clinics; exacerbations of chronic cholecystitis are treated therapeutically, inpatient or outpatient. For treatment, antibacterial agents are necessarily used: tetracycline, ampicillin, oletethrin, etc., as well as antispasmodics.

In the first days of exacerbation, it is better not to resort to choleretic drugs. In the future, cholagogues are used depending on the type of dyskinesia, which is always present with cholecystitis.

Nutrition in cholecystitis is important. Patients with chronic cholecystitis must follow a diet constantly. Recommended frequent, fractional meals with the exception of fatty, fried, salty and smoked foods, strong broths, beer, wine, syrups, egg yolks. Strict adherence to time intervals in food intake and frequent meals contribute to a better outflow of bile, and vice versa, long breaks in food cause stagnation of bile in the bladder. It is forbidden to eat abundantly at night, as this disrupts the rhythm of bile secretion and causes a spasm of the biliary tract.

Exacerbation of cholecystitis contributes to the stagnation of bile and the formation of stones, that is, the occurrence of cholelithiasis. Dyskinesia of the gallbladder, obesity, aggravated heredity, frequent pregnancies, malnutrition and certain diseases (diabetes mellitus, gout, etc.) also predispose to this.

The presence of gallstones can sometimes be asymptomatic. Often, against the background of complete well-being, attacks of hepatic colic occur: acute pain in the right hypochondrium with the same irradiation as with cholecystitis: nausea, vomiting, not bringing relief; fever, jaundice. Attacks are often provoked by the intake of rich, fatty foods, physical activity. Treatment of gallstone disease, depending on the course (uncomplicated and complicated), is carried out in therapeutic or surgical hospitals.

Recently, more and more operations are performed to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) through special probes without opening the abdominal cavity. With frequent severe exacerbations of cholelithiasis, one should not delay with surgical treatment, since it will still be necessary to operate, but only during the period of exacerbation, which may complicate the operation. Conservative treatment, including diet therapy, offers the same methods as in the treatment of cholecystitis.

In recent years, special medicines have appeared to dissolve gallstones - henofalk, urofalk. But such treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, as it has its own indications: the stones should be small, the bile ducts should be well passable, in addition, there should be no serious concomitant diseases.

Liver disease

The liver is a unique organ. Neither the heart, nor the lungs, nor the kidneys can compare with it in terms of the volume and complexity of the work performed. Attempts to fully reproduce all the processes occurring in the liver have not yet been implemented: this would require an extremely complex structure, a whole building stuffed with various devices.

The liver is a participant in all metabolic processes in the body. About a thousand chemical reactions take place in one liver cell. More than a thousand samples have been proposed for the study of various liver functions. Liver diseases are also quite diverse. The following are the most common ones.

Chronic hepatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease. The most common cause of its occurrence are viral and alcoholic liver damage. Less commonly, chronic hepatitis is of toxic, including medicinal, origin. Approximately 20% of all chronic hepatitis are viral. They mainly develop after acute hepatitis.

Acute hepatitis is caused by the hepatitis A virus (the most favorable form, ending in recovery, in which chronic hepatitis rarely develops; infection occurs through dirty hands).

The B virus is transmitted through blood from sick people (through blood transfusions, injections, through dental and surgical instruments), it causes acute hepatitis B, which can turn into chronic hepatitis. In recent years, two more viruses have been isolated - C and D, which can also lead to the development of chronic hepatitis.

Penetrating into the liver cells, the virus begins to multiply and causes destruction (necrosis) of the liver tissue. The body begins to resist this intervention and mobilizes the forces of immunity. With hepatitis A, these forces are sufficient, and the virus is eventually expelled, while with other types, the process is delayed and becomes chronic. Chronic hepatitis can proceed in different ways, sometimes completely asymptomatic. A person, being a carrier of the virus, poses a danger to others, therefore, injections and other medical procedures should be performed with separate instruments, and doctors should always be warned about the virus.

With a calm benign passage of the disease, patients have a slight weakness, increased fatigue, dull moderate pain in the right hypochondrium, a slight enlargement of the liver, sometimes nausea, bitterness in the mouth. Such hepatitis is treated on an outpatient basis and does not require much effort. However, in this case, to establish a diagnosis, the patient must undergo an appropriate examination (blood, urine, ultrasound of the liver or scan is performed). First of all, all kinds of stresses on the liver should be eliminated: physical activity, alcohol consumption (excluded in any form), vaccination, sun exposure and medication.

The use of drugs should be minimal, since almost all drugs are metabolized in the liver, and if in a healthy body it becomes a kind of target for drugs, then a diseased liver is a doubly target.

In chronic hepatitis, the use of hepatoprotectors that strengthen the membranes of liver cells is indicated - Karsil, Legalon, Catergen. Used drugs that normalize the metabolism in the liver: lipoic acid, lapamide, Essentiale. One-month courses of treatment with the indicated means are carried out (with interruptions). Perhaps the use of B vitamins, enzyme preparations that do not contain bile acids. In some cases, no medical treatment is required.

In the event that chronic hepatitis proceeds aggressively (active chronic hepatitis), the clinical manifestations are distinct: weakness increases, jaundice appears, itching of the skin, and the liver enlarges. There are changes in other organs: bloating, diarrhea, etc. These forms of the disease are treated in hospitals with the use of hormonal agents, cytostatics, antiviral drugs. After discharge, it is recommended to conduct supportive courses, which have already been discussed.

In chronic hepatitis, special attention is paid to nutrition. In addition to alcohol, all smoked foods, canned food, including homemade, with vinegar are excluded (only boiled ones are allowed); refractory fats (goose, duck). For therapeutic purposes, in order to exclude the exacerbation of the disease, massage is prescribed for a month, 5-6 sessions with a break of three days, then monthly 10-12-day courses throughout the year.

Cirrhosis of the liver is a severe damage to the liver with the development of connective tissue in it, which disrupts the structure and function of this organ. Cirrhosis can develop as a result of active forms of chronic hepatitis and alcoholic liver damage (Fig. 5). Along with signs of damage to the liver tissue (necrosis and inflammation, as in chronic hepatitis), there is a rapid growth of connective tissue nodes. As a result, the liver loses its functions and liver failure develops: there are signs of poisoning of the body, and especially the nervous system, with toxic substances that the liver in a healthy state should neutralize. Protein synthesis is also disturbed (edema, weight loss appear), pressure in the vessels of the liver increases due to compression by their nodes (fluid accumulates in the abdomen, the spleen enlarges).

Rice. five

Patients with cirrhosis during the period of exacerbation are treated in hospitals. At home, they should continue taking diuretics (usually veroshpiron or triampur in combination with furosemide), potassium preparations to reduce pressure in the vessels of the liver, drugs from the group of anaprilin and obzidan. In addition, the use of hepatoprotectors is shown.

The diet has the same features as in chronic hepatitis, but due to the stage of liver failure, it is necessary to limit protein in food (liver failure will increase), as well as salt and liquid (with edema and fluid accumulation in the abdomen).

Comprehensive continuous treatment of cirrhosis creates good prerequisites for increasing life expectancy. The achievements of modern science have made it possible to find approaches to the impact on the main causes of chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver - viruses. These are antiviral drugs and antiviral vaccines that can be vaccinated in all newborns. In addition, in some cases, liver transplantation is used, which was first performed in the 1960s. A part of the liver is taken from the donor, most often a close relative, and transplanted to the patient. Recently, the number of such operations has increased significantly, as modern transplantation gives a good result.

In addition to drug treatment, massage of internal organs, shiatsu and reflexology are prescribed. Patients are advised to be outdoors more often and follow a strict diet.

Diseases of the pancreas

Using the example of diseases of the pancreas, one can trace how often one disease causes another. For example, gallstone disease can contribute to the development of inflammation of the pancreas - pancreatitis. The outlet duct of the pancreas and the bile duct are located nearby (see Fig. 4) and with inflammation, stones in the gallbladder, when pressure rises in it, bile can be thrown into the pancreas.

The pancreas can produce very strong enzymes that break down proteins, fats, carbohydrates during digestion. In contact with bile, pancreatic enzymes are activated and can digest the tissue of the gland itself. Alcohol has the same effect. Therefore, patients with pathology of the biliary tract and alcohol abusers may develop pancreatitis, manifested by acute pain in the epigastric region, which are girdle in nature, radiate the entire back, often accompanied by indomitable vomiting.

With attacks of pancreatitis, it is necessary to call an ambulance, and, as a rule, such patients are treated in a hospital. Sometimes you have to resort to surgery, the outcome of which is ambiguous. Pancreatitis usually manifests itself in a chronic form: periods of exacerbations are replaced by remissions. Over time, the pancreas becomes sclerotic, as areas of inflammation are replaced by connective tissue.

Then the main symptom of the disease becomes a violation of digestion: due to the lack of enzymes, there is no breakdown and absorption of proteins, fats, carbohydrates; diarrhea appears, weakness, weight loss, beriberi develop. In addition, the pancreas produces insulin, which promotes the utilization of sugar in the body, therefore, if the pancreas function is impaired, the patient may develop diabetes mellitus, the first signs of which are constant thirst, dry mouth, itchy skin, and large amounts of urine.

In the treatment of patients with pancreatitis, diet is of paramount importance, since the slightest violation can often lead to an exacerbation of the disease. In acute pancreatitis, the best medicine is fasting for 3-5 days with the intake of alkaline mineral waters such as Borjomi (without gas and slightly warmed up), as well as rosehip broth. Nutrition for pancreatic disease is only slightly different from nutrition for chronic gastritis. The volume of protein products slightly increases, but the content of fats (mainly due to the consumption of vegetable oils) and carbohydrates decreases (sugar is recommended no more than 30–40 g per day). At the same time, some sweet dishes are prepared using xylitol.

Since hydrochloric acid of gastric juice is also a stimulant of pancreatic secretion, it is necessary to limit foods and dishes that increase the secretion of gastric juice. Excluded food that causes fermentation in the intestines and bloating, as well as stimulating the secretion of bile, rich in dietary fiber (legumes, nuts, mushrooms, dried fruits, most raw vegetables and fruits); besides this, food is salty, sour, spicy and smoked, cold. Meat and fish broths rich in extractive substances, refractory fats and fat breakdown products formed during frying are also excluded from the diet.

The total amount of fat in dishes is significantly limited (up to 50–70 g), but the protein content, in accordance with the data of modern nutrition, rises to 110–120 g due to low-fat meat, fish, dairy products, and egg protein. But the attending physicians of most patients still recommend adhering to the norm of 70–90 g of protein, due to the fact that the pancreas is involved in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, and this function is impaired in pancreatitis. The same applies to carbohydrates, especially easily digestible ones, since not only the process of carbohydrate digestion is disturbed, but also the synthesis of insulin. You should mainly use boiled or steamed dishes of minced meat and fish, as well as soufflés, jelly, mousses, puddings, jelly, regular fasting for 1-3 days, as well as cleansing diets, will be of great benefit.

Usually, treatment with one drug is carried out within a month. These drugs improve digestion, but they should not be used constantly, as they can suppress the already reduced function of the pancreas. Antispasmodics and vitamins are also shown. With the development of diabetes, appropriate therapy is carried out. Also, the patient is prescribed baths with herbs and rubbing, therapeutic massage and mandatory walks in the fresh air.

Bowel disease

The intestines are made up of the small intestine and the large intestine, which have different functions. The small intestine breaks down and absorbs proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes and forms feces.

The causes leading to intestinal diseases are different: bacteria, viruses, worms, radiation, allergies, hereditary diseases. All this affects the intestinal mucosa (Fig. 6) and causes the so-called organic diseases: enteritis (small intestine) and colitis (large intestine). However, functional bowel diseases are much more common - dyskinesias, in which the mucosa does not change, but only the function of the intestine, mainly motor, suffers.

Rice. 6

The causes of these diseases are primarily nervous factors (the nervous system regulates the activity of the intestine), malnutrition (excess protein or carbohydrate food), and intestinal dysbacteriosis. Dysbacteriosis is a violation of the normal composition of the intestinal microflora. In a healthy person, beneficial bacteria live in the colon, which are involved in the synthesis of B vitamins, the digestion of fiber, and also protect the mucosa from pathogenic microorganisms. With infection or long-term antibiotic treatment, these bacteria die, and others take their place, causing putrefactive or fermentative dyspepsia, which disrupts bowel function.

The causes of bowel disease are different, and the reactions to damage are the same - primarily a violation of the stool. It is believed that a person can have a chair several times a day, and only 3-4 times a week. The stool should be formed, without pathological impurities (blood, mucus, pus), and the act of defecation should not bring pain. The main thing, some gastroenterologists believe, is not the frequency of stools, but a change in its usual nature. Although most doctors are of the opinion that a chair less than 1 time per day already indicates incipient constipation.

For diseases of the small intestine, the appearance of diarrhea is characteristic - copious mushy stools 2-3 times a day with an unpleasant fetid odor, covered with a film of fat (poorly washed off). There is bloating, vague pain around the navel. With organic diseases of the small intestine (enteritis), there are also violations of the absorption of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins. As a result, weight loss gradually develops, edema, blurred vision, impaired skin sensitivity, etc. Functional diseases of the colon (colon dyskinesia) are also mainly manifested by stool disorders: diarrhea, which is replaced by constipation. Bowel movements with diarrhea have a watery appearance, not abundant (less than 200 g per day). Frequent bowel movements - up to 5-10 times or more, there may be false urge to defecate. In the case of an organic disease of the colon (ulcerative colitis, etc.), pathological impurities in the feces, temperature, weakness, damage to other organs: skin, joints, liver, etc. may appear.

Organic bowel diseases are treated in a hospital, where salazopreparations (salazodimethoxine, salazolpyridazine, salofalk), hormones are used, proteins, saline solutions, etc. are infused. The diagnosis is established after an X-ray and functional examination, in some cases after a biopsy of the intestine.

Dyskinesias are treated on an outpatient basis. The diet should be complete, containing a sufficient amount of proteins, fats, carbohydrates. Constipation is facilitated by such foods as hard-boiled eggs, semolina and rice porridge, white bread, cocoa, coffee, strong broths, red wines. Cold vegetable fruit juices, mineral water or just a glass of cold boiled water are recommended on an empty stomach. Useful in the morning vegetable salads (carrots, radishes, swedes, pumpkins), seasoned with sunflower oil, sour cream, mayonnaise.

With diarrhea, on the contrary, black bread, fresh vegetables and fruits, seaweed, prunes, walnuts, sardines, mayonnaise, sour cream are excluded. Food should be warm, mechanically processed, well chewed. Often, patients with bowel disease have a bad effect on milk. But pain, flatulence and diarrhea can also be observed in healthy people after taking milk. In this case, it should be replaced with sour-milk products.

In case of chronic inflammation of the small intestine (enteritis) or large intestine (colitis), accompanied by bloating and pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, weight loss, disruption of the normal intestinal microflora, it is necessary first of all to establish bowel function. For this, products and dishes containing astringent tannins are used (decoctions and jelly from dry blueberries and raspberries, bird cherry berries, pears, dogwood, quince, juice and decoction of pomegranate peel, viburnum juice, blackthorn fruits and juice, strong tea, etc.) . An infusion of dill seeds reduces gas formation in the intestines, thereby reducing pain. The diet includes dishes that envelop the intestinal mucosa - decoctions of cereals, especially rice, pureed cereals, mucous soups. Drinks and food must be used only in a warm form; dishes with a temperature below room temperature, carbonated drinks and all foods that increase intestinal motility are prohibited.

Since the intestinal microflora is disturbed, it is imperative to use sour-milk drinks, a small amount of well-mashed fruits, berries, and vegetables. Apple, vegetable and fruit diets are effective with normal tolerance. Due to the fact that with diarrhea there is a significant loss of protein, vitamins and minerals, they should be slightly more than usual in the diet, mainly due to boiled meat and fish, cottage cheese, egg dishes, as well as food enrichment with synthetic multivitamin products.

Of the drugs for diarrhea, antibacterial ones are used, since intestinal dyskinesia contributes to the development of dysbacteriosis, which exacerbates functional disorders. It is advisable to start with the following drugs: enteroseptol, intestopan, mexase, mexaform. They do not affect the normal microflora, but pathogenic bacteria are sensitive to them. These drugs are taken 1-2 tablets 3-4 times a day, the course is no more than 5-7 days, it can be repeated after 7-10 days. A contraindication to the appointment of these funds is damage to the optic nerve, dysfunction of the thyroid gland, allergy to iodine and bromine.

If the above is ineffective, agents such as furadonin, furazolidone, 5-NOC or sulfonamides (biseptol, sulgin, fthalazol) are used. Last resort to antibiotics: levomycetin, tetracycline, oletethrin, etc.

After 1-2 short courses of antibacterial agents, treatment is carried out with biological preparations containing a culture of beneficial bacteria: bifidum-bacterin, colibacterin, lactobacterin, bifikol, bactisubtil. Improve digestion and enzyme preparations, as well as vitamins.

To eliminate diarrhea, imodium, powders with calcium, bismuth, white clay, blueberries, bird cherry, pomegranate bark are recommended. For constipation, it is better not to start with laxatives, as you can get used to them, but try to correct the situation with a diet. With the ineffectiveness of the latter, bisacodyl and a gentle massage of the abdomen are prescribed. Isafenin is also often used. These drugs increase the secretion of intestinal juice without affecting the motility of the intestine, and are recommended especially for static constipation, accompanied by pain in the abdomen.

The next group of drugs enhances intestinal motility and is indicated for atonic constipation, which often develops in elderly sedentary people. These are senade, senadexin, rhubarb root, ramnil, buckthorn bark, phenolphthalein (purgen), fennel fruits, cumin, jostera.

You can use such a laxative collection: buckthorn bark, nettle leaves, yarrow grass or senna leaves, joster fruits, anise fruits, licorice roots. These fees are used in the form of infusions of 1/4-1/2 cup at night. To reduce the viscosity of feces, oils are used: vaseline (necessarily on an empty stomach), castor oil, glycerin suppositories. Salt laxatives reduce the absorption of water from the intestines: xylitol, sorbitol, Glauber's salt, Karlovy Vary salt. Sometimes constipation is associated with a violation of the act of defecation due to anal fissures, hemorrhoids. In this case, candles with belladonna, novocaine are shown.

Doctor Kurennov P. M. in his "Therapist" advises the following remedies for hemorrhoids: ice candles, the use of a sitz bath with cold water for 3-5 minutes, anti-hemorrhoid tea. Ice candles are made independently. Water is poured into paper cylindrical tubes and frozen. Before entering the anus, the tube is lowered into warm water to remove roughness, or lubricated with petroleum jelly. At first, ice candles are introduced for half a minute, then every 5 days, half a minute is added. Anti-hemorrhoid tea is prepared from kidney grass (highlander bird or knotweed). It is brewed like regular tea and drunk several times a day. Irrigation of the anus with cold water for 2-3 minutes 3-4 times a day also helps well until it feels numb.

For bowel diseases, massage is also used and physiotherapy exercises are recommended.

Medical statistics notes that in recent decades, pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract have taken a leading place in the list of diseases. Experts confirm that the majority of city dwellers suffer from eating disorders in one way or another.

The modern rhythm of life, full of constant stress, poor ecology, improper and irrational nutrition lead to the fact that by the age of 30 every fourth person has one of the diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in his anamnesis. Which of them are the most common, what is the cause of pathological conditions and how to deal with diseases of the digestive tract?

Everyone knows that a person cannot live without food, with it he receives the proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and microelements necessary for the life of the body. They are a source of energy and the main building material for new cells. And it helps to get this energy from the incoming products of the human gastrointestinal tract.

The digestive system itself consists of the following main sections: oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach. This is followed by the lower sections: small and large intestines, rectum. Each of these departments performs a specific function in the processing and assimilation of incoming food.

Under the influence of adverse factors, malfunctions in the gastrointestinal tract occur, leading to various diseases. What are the most common triggers for disease?

Causes of intestinal diseases

Diseases of the digestive system can provoke the following factors:

The list of adverse factors is quite extensive and the risk of developing a pathology of the digestive system is high for each person. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the slightest signs of trouble in order to avoid the development of serious and dangerous diseases. What symptoms should you look out for?

Symptoms of intestinal diseases

The main symptoms of intestinal diseases are known to many. But the nature of the manifestations in each case is individual, and the severity of the symptoms depends on the affected organ and the stage of the disease.

In addition to these main symptoms, there are a number of characteristic signs that indicate damage to the digestive system:

Most of these symptoms do not pose a great danger, but significantly reduce the patient's quality of life and affect his performance. If symptoms are ignored and medical help is sought late, diseases of the digestive system become chronic, and their exacerbation can have serious consequences for the patient.

All diseases of the digestive tract by nature of origin are divided into two large groups:

infectious
non-infectious

According to the localization of the pathological process, diseases of the following organs are distinguished:

stomach
Esophagus
Intestine (small and large)
biliary tract
Liver

In addition, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are acquired and hereditary, acute and chronic.

Acute intestinal diseases mainly have a bacterial-infectious nature and develop against the background of poisoning, allergic reactions, or some pathological conditions (viral hepatitis, esophagitis).

Chronic inflammatory processes, such as gastritis, colitis, cholecystitis, develop against the background of a long-term violation of the diet, the use of low-quality and harmful products. Moreover, such chronic diseases rarely occur in isolation, in most cases the entire digestive tract is involved in the inflammatory process. Let us consider in more detail the most common pathological conditions of the gastrointestinal tract.

A short list of the most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract:

The list of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract is quite extensive and the above ailments are only a small part of them. The treatment of intestinal diseases requires a competent approach, correct and timely diagnosis and timely access to a doctor when unfavorable symptoms appear.

Diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

For the diagnosis of diseases of the digestive system, methods of physical and instrumental examination are used.

Physical examination

To begin with, the doctor will interview the patient, collect an anamnesis, ask about complaints, well-being, diet, heredity, and the presence of chronic diseases. Then he will proceed to examine the patient using diagnostic methods such as palpation, auscultation and percussion.

involves probing the internal organs through the abdominal cavity. The method is based on tactile sensations and allows you to examine the position of organs, their shape, consistency, mobility and pain with your fingers.
Auscultation- this is listening to the internal organs with a phonendoscope or stethoscope.
Percussion- a method that allows, by tapping on various parts of the body, to determine the physical condition and topography of internal organs.

Instrumental examination

The basis of many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract is a violation of the secretion and motor activity of various parts of the digestive tract. Therefore, methods for studying the acidity of gastric juice, such as intragastric, daily and endoscopic pH-metry, are in the first place.

To study the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, methods of manometry and gastrography are used. In order to visually inspect the inner surface of the esophagus, stomach and intestines, endoscopic methods are used.

If it is necessary to examine the internal organ as a whole in order to identify pathological defects, methods of fluoroscopy, laparoscopy, MRI are used. ( magnetic resonance imaging), CT (computed tomography) and ultrasound (ultrasound). In some cases, diagnostics are carried out using radioactive substances (scintigraphy).

In addition, laboratory diagnostic methods are used, histological examination of tissue samples taken by biopsy is carried out, cytological and microbiological studies are carried out.

Treatment of intestinal diseases

Therapy of intestinal diseases begins after a thorough examination and clarification of the diagnosis. The course of treatment will depend on the specific disease, the stage of its development, the general condition and well-being of the patient. In most cases, methods of conservative drug therapy are used. In some acute cases, there is a need for surgical intervention.

Therapist or gastroenterologist is engaged in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. If any adverse symptoms associated with the digestive organs occur, it is important to promptly seek medical help and establish a diagnosis. It is unacceptable to self-medicate and postpone a visit to the doctor, this can result in serious complications or conditions that threaten the patient's life.

The tactics of treatment in each case will be selected individually, based on the results of the examination. In combination with drug therapy, many people use folk remedies: decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants. They give a good therapeutic effect, but they can be used only after consultation with the attending physician and under his supervision.

Recently, there has been a significant increase in the number of diseases of the digestive system in children. Many factors contribute to this:

bad ecology,
unbalanced diet,
heredity.

Sweets and confectionery products with a high content of preservatives and artificial colors, fast food, carbonated drinks, so beloved by many, cause great harm to the child's body. The role of allergic reactions, neuropsychic factors, and neuroses is growing. Doctors note that intestinal diseases in children have two age peaks: at 5-6 years and at 9-11 years. The main pathological conditions are:

, diarrhea
Chronic and acute gastritis and gastroenteritis
Chronic enterocolitis
Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum
Chronic cholecystitis
Chronic pancreatitis
Diseases of the biliary tract
Chronic and acute hepatitis

Of great importance in the occurrence and development of gastrointestinal diseases is the insufficient ability of the child's body to resist infections, since the child's immunity is still weak. The formation of immunity is greatly influenced by proper feeding in the first months of life.

The best option is breast milk, with which protective bodies are passed from mother to child, increasing the ability to resist various infections. Formula-fed babies are more susceptible to various diseases and have a weakened immune system. The cause of violations in the digestive system can be irregular feeding or overfeeding of the child, early introduction of complementary foods, non-compliance with hygiene standards.

A separate group consists of acute intestinal diseases in children (dysentery, salmonellosis). Their main clinical manifestations are dyspeptic disorders, dehydration (dehydration) of the body and symptoms of intoxication. Such manifestations are very dangerous and require immediate hospitalization of a sick child.

Intestinal infections are especially often diagnosed in childhood, this is due to the imperfection of protective mechanisms, the physiological characteristics of the digestive organs and the lack of sanitary and hygienic skills in children. Especially negative acute intestinal infections affect young children and can lead to a significant decrease in immunity, delayed physical development, and complications.

Their onset is accompanied by characteristic signs: a sharp increase in temperature, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite. The child becomes restless, or, on the contrary, lethargic and inhibited. The clinical picture largely depends on which parts of the intestine are affected. In any case, the child needs emergency medical care and antibiotic therapy.

The treatment of diseases of the digestive system in babies is handled by a pediatric gastroenterologist, it is he who should be contacted when unfavorable symptoms appear.

Diet and eating habits in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are so different that it is impossible to give any specific recommendations that are suitable for all patients without exception. Adjustment of the diet in each case is made by the doctor individually, taking into account all the characteristics of the patient and his diagnosis. We can only consider the principles of healthy eating, which must be observed by all patients suffering from pathologies of the digestive system.

Diet for intestinal diseases involves fractional nutrition, in small portions, this allows you not to overload the stomach and prevent overeating. You need to eat 5-6 times a day, preferably at the same time. Be sure to observe the drinking regimen. On the day the patient should drink 1.5-2 liters of liquid and in the form of water, juices, compotes, weak tea (preferably herbal or green). Carbonated drinks are excluded.

Food should be as sparing as possible, not irritating the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. It is preferable to use:

porridge cooked in water
low-fat meat and fish broths,
omelets,
puree,
souffle.

It is better to cook meat in the form of cutlets, meatballs, dumplings. All products are best boiled, baked or steamed; fried foods should be discarded. Observe the temperature regime when serving ready meals. Do not eat too hot or cold food. Meals should be served warm.

Vegetables are best cooked or mashed, fruits can be grated or baked (baked apples). Vegetables with coarse fiber, which cause fermentation processes in the stomach and excessive gas formation, are not recommended. These are cabbage, all kinds of legumes, radishes, corn, radishes, turnips.

It is necessary to limit or minimize the use of flour and confectionery products, sweets, strong coffee, tea, and avoid fast food. It is strictly forbidden to drink alcohol, fatty, fried, salty, spicy, pickled foods. It is better to exclude from the diet:

condiments,
sauces,
semi-finished products,
canned food and all other products containing artificial colors and preservatives.

Food should be fresh, easy to digest and contribute to the normalization of the digestive tract. The less refined food in the diet, and more foods containing fiber and dietary fiber, the better the digestive system will work.

Prevention

Prevention of intestinal diseases primarily includes measures to ensure a balanced and healthy diet. Observe personal hygiene and sanitary requirements when preparing meals. This way you protect yourself from foodborne infections.

Eat more fruits and vegetables, choose the right methods of thermal processing of food (boiling, stewing). Eat fractionally, do not overeat, give up snacks on the go and fast food. Nutrition should be balanced and varied, with the right ratio of nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins).

Try to move more, lead an active lifestyle, go in for sports, walk more, perform feasible physical exercises, run, swim.

Fight stress and psychological tension, for this you can take natural sedatives (motherwort, valerian).

If you experience any adverse symptoms associated with the work of the digestive tract, seek medical help in a timely manner, do not self-medicate. This is the only way to avoid the transition of the disease to the chronic stage and achieve recovery.

Even young children are familiar with disorders of the digestive system. Adults face this problem quite often. Violation of the gastrointestinal tract may be associated with overeating or eating stale foods. Unfortunately, no one is immune from digestive disorders. In some cases, they are associated with the development of gastrointestinal diseases. Digestive problems are indicated by symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and changes in stool. Such manifestations are associated with both acute inflammatory processes and chronic diseases. If you experience symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, you should consult a doctor.

How is the digestive process carried out normally?

As you know, the digestive system consists of many interconnected organs. It begins in the oral cavity and passes through the entire body, ending in the anus. Normally, all stages of the digestion process are carried out sequentially. First, food enters the mouth. There it is crushed with the help of teeth. In addition, there is an enzyme in the mouth - salivary amylase, which is involved in the breakdown of food. As a result, a lump of crushed products is formed - chyme. It passes through the esophagus and enters the stomach cavity. Here the chyme is treated with hydrochloric acid. The result is the breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The pancreas produces enzymes that enter the lumen of the duodenum. They provide further splitting of organic substances.

The work of the digestive system is not only in grinding the food eaten. Thanks to the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, useful substances penetrate into the bloodstream. The absorption of amino acids, fats and glucose occurs in the small intestine. From there, nutrients enter the vascular system and are carried throughout the body. The large intestine absorbs fluid and vitamins. There is also the formation of fecal masses. Intestinal peristalsis contributes to their promotion and excretion.

Digestive problems: causes of disorders

Violation of any stage of the digestive process leads to the development of disorders. It can develop for various reasons. In most cases, the penetration of bacterial or viral agents leads to disruption of the digestive tract. Pathogens begin to multiply rapidly and damage the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. This, in turn, leads to an inflammatory response. As a result, the digestion process slows down or is disturbed. Causes of gastrointestinal disorders include:

To find out for what reason the disorder arose, it is necessary to be examined. Laboratory and instrumental diagnostic procedures will help determine the source of the pathology.

Causes of Digestive Disorders in Children

In childhood, digestive problems are common. They may be related to various factors. Among them are hereditary anomalies, improper feeding, helminthic invasions, infectious pathologies, etc. In some cases, urgent surgical care is required to fix the problem. Causes of indigestion in children include:

Hereditary disorders of the exocrine glands - cystic fibrosis.
Anomalies in the development of the digestive tract.
Spasm or stenosis of the pyloric stomach.
Feeding a young child excessively thick food.
Poisoning from stale or spoiled food.
Infection with various pathogenic bacteria that enter the gastrointestinal tract with food.
Worm infestations.

Only a doctor can find out: why there was a problem with digestion in children. Some pathologies can be fatal, so they require urgent medical attention.

Varieties of diseases of the digestive system

Diseases of the digestive system are classified according to the cause of occurrence, the source of the development of the pathological condition, the methods of necessary treatment. There are surgical and therapeutic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. In the first case, recovery can only be achieved with the help of surgery. Therapeutic diseases are treated with medications.

Surgical pathologies of the digestive system include:

Therapeutic diseases of the digestive system are acute and chronic inflammatory processes in the stomach and intestines and poisoning. Injuries can belong to both groups, depending on the severity and nature of the lesion.

Digestive problems: symptoms

Pathologies of the digestive system can be manifested by a syndrome of gastric or intestinal dyspepsia, pain in the abdomen and changes in the nature of the stool. In some cases, phenomena of intoxication of the body are observed. Symptoms of stomach pathologies include: pain in the epigastric region, nausea and vomiting after eating. Similar clinical manifestations are observed in cholecystitis. The difference is that patients with inflammation of the gallbladder complain of pain in the right upper abdomen and a bitter taste in the mouth. characterized by a change in the consistency of the stool (diarrhea, less often - constipation) and flatulence. Unpleasant sensations can be in the navel, in the right or left side of the abdomen.

In acute surgical pathologies, the intensity of pain is stronger, there is a delay in gas discharge, an increase in body temperature. Often patients are forced to lie down or take a forced position to alleviate the condition.

Diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Diagnosis of pathologies of the digestive system is based on clinical data and additional studies. First of all, patients must pass a general blood and urine test. If inflammatory is suspected, it is necessary to determine the level of indicators such as bilirubin, ALT and AST, amylase. You should also take a feces for analysis.

Instrumental studies include radiography, abdominal ultrasound and FGDS. In some cases, additional diagnostics are required.

Which doctor should be consulted?

What to do if there are problems with digestion, which doctor will help? Gastrointestinal diseases are treated by a gastroenterologist. However, before making an appointment with him, it is worth undergoing an examination, which is prescribed by a therapist or pediatrician. If acute abdominal pain occurs, emergency care should be called to exclude surgical pathologies that require immediate surgical intervention.