You've probably heard that timely prevention works wonders. But did you know that preventing intestinal microflora disorders will cure Alzheimer's syndrome, Parkinson's disease, and brain cancer?

David Perlmutter is a member of the American College of Nutrition and a neurologist. He has received numerous professional awards, including the American College of Nutrition and Linus Pauling for his research in neuroscience. The author's articles are regularly published in medical publications. David speaks all over the world with his lectures and master classes on the health system.

A neurologist once said that they are always trying to feed us something that your body does not need. We've taken a look at David Perlamutter's key quotes and found some interesting answers to some of your gut-related questions.

Alzheimer's syndrome, Parkinson's disease, brain cancer, dementia and many other diseases may not appear if you prevent disorders of the intestinal microflora. Sound ambitious?

The fact is that intestinal bacteria are the producer of chemicals for our brain. For example, serotonin, which everyone associates with a good mood. When serotonin levels are low, meaning our gut bacteria don't produce enough serotonin, a person may experience depressive moods. Thus, our intestinal bacteria literally charge us with a good mood. However, we take too many medications and do not realize that some are harmful to the intestines. Of course, this has a negative impact on health: bacteria that are not interested in keeping us healthy begin to appear and multiply in the intestines.

Can bacteria help humans?

David believes that all the bacteria we have in our bodies makes us healthy and happy. Our body is their home. Little inhabitants participate in the creation of useful substances for the whole body and for our brain, reduce inflammation, and promote food digestion.

David Perlmutter, author of Food and the Brain, does not deny that harmful bacteria exist. Even if they are in your body right now, beneficial bacteria protect the body, but this requires taking care of yourself beforehand.

Who is in charge: the brain or the intestines?

Hippocrates said that disease begins in the intestines. Traditional Eastern medicine continues this idea. Today scientists know that the intestines affect our mood, memory, and the risk of serious diseases.

David Perlmutter believes that every organ is part of one mechanism, the main thing here is complexity. If problems arise with one organ and we do not find it or do not attach any importance to it, then this entails a disruption in the functioning of the others. It turns out that there are no main ones in our body - there is a whole team, each with its own important function.

For example, in winter and autumn we often catch colds, and our immunity noticeably weakens. This happens because the bacterial balance of the intestines is disrupted. It controls the state of our immune system and is able to quickly solve problems.

Advice: supply the body with the necessary macro- and microelements in a timely manner, maintain water balance, eat seasonal vegetables, berries and fruits.

What is prevention?

How much do you move? What do you eat? What are you drinking?

It’s trivial, but these simple points are important for maintaining immunity. David Perlmutter reminds us to eat as many vegetables as possible. Have you noticed that your appetite depends on the color of the food on your plate? What you eat affects how your brain works and how it recovers when tired or sick.

How does water affect intestinal function?

The intestines are one of the main consumers of water. For it to work properly you need about 8 liters of water per day. If there is not enough water, a lump of food debris forms in the intestines, which leads to constipation. And chronic constipation is one of the most serious factors in the development of intestinal cancer.

In addition to maintaining drinking and eating habits, do not forget to test your blood sugar levels from time to time. This test can prevent neurodegenerative brain diseases. Such diseases are genetically determined, but if prevention is carried out, the disease may not manifest itself, and high blood sugar levels serve as an important signal that this will happen. So the most important thing is to make the right choices for your health every day.

Stress is time for a sweet helper

During difficult life situations, many people prefer fast carbohydrates, which never let you down and lift your spirits thanks to dopamine, the “neurotransmitter of anticipation.” However, they work quickly and insidiously. A person cannot maintain a state of expectation of happiness for a long time.

Let's say you allowed yourself chocolate. Joyful relief came, but soon the body required another dose. He will wait and not receive, wait and not receive again. As a result, the more dopamine in the form of a sweet bar or bun, the more severe your depression. Some kind of drug that we addict ourselves to.

Why deny yourself sugar if your body demands it?

Did you know that our distant ancestors were very cold in winter, and hunting was necessary to survive?

David Perlamutter argues that sugar was needed to store energy for the cold season, so in late summer, when fruits or berries appeared, people did not deny themselves anything.

Today, those same ancestors would probably be frightened by such a variety of products on store shelves. The harsh winter is not scary for us, but new obstacles have appeared - stress and neuroses. There is access to fruit all year round, so sweets are needed 365 days a year. This fact has provoked a new problem - obesity. Advertising around us is always selling something and makes us subconsciously reach out for a product that the body does not need, with excess sugar and GMOs in its composition.

A modern resident of a metropolis is constantly under pressure from the opinions of others. At one time, a low-fat diet was popular. Many studies previously supported this idea, but it was later learned that most were paid for by brands that produce high-sugar foods and drinks.

We face many manipulations every day. Wherever you eat, keep your interests and desires first and don't fall for the "free cheese."

So what to do?

Content

Digestive problems are almost commonplace for modern people: this is due to lifestyle, poor nutrition, and psycho-emotional factors. Intestinal diseases among all gastroenterological disorders are one of the most common and not always safe. What are the signs to recognize them and what exactly can pain in the colon or small intestine, stool instability, and flatulence indicate?

What are the types of intestinal diseases?

In modern medicine, a large number of different intestinal pathologies are mentioned, among which there are even more than 10 particularly common diseases. They can be classified by location (which department is affected) or by the nature of the problem:

• Inflammatory - can be of an infectious nature (the influence of pathogenic bacteria or viruses), occur against the background of injury, prolonged irritation of the mucous membrane. Characterized by tissue damage and changes in their structure.
• Functional - characterized by impaired intestinal motility, do not imply organic tissue damage, but lead to disruptions in the digestive process.
• Pathologies with metabolic disorders that affect the general condition of the body, changing the composition of the blood and even hormonal balance.

Thin

Enteritis in acute or chronic form is the most common disease of the small intestine, which may be accompanied by a syndrome of insufficient absorption (malabsorption) of nutrients. The following are also not excluded:

• dyspepsia (painful or difficult digestion);
• congenital or acquired enzyme deficiencies (enzymopathies: celiac disease or inability to break down gluten, disaccharide deficiency);
• diverticulosis (stretching of the wall with the formation of a “pocket”).

Tolstoy

The formation of a fecal bolus from digested food, adsorption (absorption) of valuable substances from incoming products are the main tasks of the large intestine, which is more susceptible to inflammation, tumors and peristalsis disorders than the small intestine. Most of the diseases in this department develop gradually, so seeing a doctor becomes late: when fever appears due to inflammation of the intestines, bloody discharge from the anus. The most common diseases in this area:

• ulcerative colitis;
• diverticulosis (stretching of the wall with the formation of a “pocket”) of the sigmoid colon;
• neoplasms of the colon (tumors, polyps);
• congenital and acquired anomalies (elongation of the sigmoid colon - dolichosigma, colon hypertrophy - megacolon: detected on an x-ray);
• Crohn's disease;
• ischemic colitis (due to damage to the vessels supplying the walls).

Symptoms of intestinal diseases

According to medical statistics, the clinical picture for most diseases affecting the intestines is approximately the same, so an accurate diagnosis can only be made after instrumental and laboratory tests. The most common symptoms of intestinal problems:

• Pain syndrome: local or widespread, of varying degrees of intensity, associated with defecation or eating. The main areas are the navel area, the lower abdomen on the right or left.
• Diarrhea: loose, watery stools, may contain mucus, blood, pus, the frequency of bowel movements exceeds 4 times a day. Mostly this symptom accompanies inflammatory processes in the small intestine.
• Constipation: absence of the urge to defecate for several days, passage of dense, caked feces. It is a rare sign of functional disorders.
• Flatulence: increased formation of gases, bloating due to fermentation processes, mainly in the evening.
• Metabolic disorders: weight loss, increased dry skin, formation of cracks in the corners of the mouth. They arise against the background of problems with the absorption of substances coming from food.

Signs of intestinal disease in women are often associated with manifestations of disorders of the reproductive system: menstrual cycle disorders (changes in duration, schedule), problems with conception - especially with diseases of the small intestine. Flatulence in women can occur due to pathologies of the biliary tract, which create a deficiency of digestive enzymes. A few nuances:

• In children, against the background of intestinal diseases that have been observed for a long time, disturbances in general development and growth retardation, manifestations of vitamin deficiency, and weakened immunity are possible.
• In men with long-term intestinal disorders, impotence is possible; in women, amenorrhea (absence of menstrual bleeding for several cycles) may be observed.

Colon ulcer

Violation of the integrity of the epithelial cover, which can be single or multiple - this is the definition doctors give to peptic ulcer disease. The lesion occurs in any part of the colon; there are no specific symptoms of the disease, so self-diagnosis is difficult. The inflammation is chronic, worsening mainly in autumn and spring. During the remission stage, symptoms of intestinal disease may be completely absent. The clinical picture of an ulcer is:

• pain of varying degrees of intensity in the abdominal area, which can spread over the entire surface or concentrate on the left, in the umbilical area;
• stool disorders: constipation gives way to diarrhea; in severe cases, the urge to defecate occurs up to 20 times a day;
• bleeding from the rectum;
• secretion of mucus, pus (in or instead of stool);
• tenesmus (spasmodic contractions of the rectum, simulating the urge to defecate), chronic constipation;
• bloating;
• itching in the anus (with an infection), irritation of the skin.

The development of the disease occurs rapidly. Persons with severe forms of peptic ulcer with damage to the colon may experience an increase in temperature up to 38 degrees, loss of appetite, dizziness, and a sharp decrease in body weight. If the disease makes itself felt for more than a year, extraintestinal symptoms are added:

• rashes in the mouth;
• skin lesions;
• diseases of other organs of the gastrointestinal tract and hepatobiliary system (stomach, liver, gall bladder);
• damage to blood vessels.

The inflammatory process can contribute to the development of ulcerative colitis, which will occur with frequent exacerbations due to a genetic predisposition to this disease or due to metabolic dysfunction. With ulcerative colitis, not only the colon is affected, but also the rectum, the inflammatory process moves upward, becoming more extensive. The risk of polyps and the growth of tumors cannot be excluded.

Irritable bowel syndrome

This disease is a functional disorder, since there are no organic changes or inflammatory process in the intestines. The syndrome is based on impaired colon motility, which leads to stool disorders and pain. The causes of the problem are not clear; stress is considered the main predisposing factor, since in most patients irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) occurred against the background of emotional disorders. Possible influence:

• previous intestinal infections;
• poor quality nutrition;
• food allergies;
• abuse of caffeine, carbonated drinks, animal and vegetable fats.

Knowing the causes is important for differentiating irritable bowel syndrome from other diseases of this organ. In women, it can occur during menstruation, which doctors associate with an increase in the level of sex hormones. Characteristic symptoms of this syndrome include:

• recurrent (recurring) abdominal pain or discomfort that is relieved by bowel movements;
• bowel movements are too rare (less than 3 times a week) or frequent (more than 3 times a day);
• violations of the consistency of feces (unformed, watery, small hard ones - “sheep”);
• feeling of incomplete bowel movement after bowel movement;
• flatulence;
• mucus in stool;
• constipation (due to inhibition of colon motility);
• diarrhea due to psycho-emotional stress or in the morning.

The main triad of symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome - pain, flatulence and stool disorders - can be supplemented by extraintestinal manifestations. In the chronic course of the pathology, gastroesophageal reflux disease (reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus) and musculoskeletal pain occur. Additional symptoms include:

• irritable bladder syndrome (frequent urge to urinate, pain);
• dyspepsia of non-ulcer origin;
• autonomic disorders (migraines, chilly limbs, chills);
• psychopathological disorders (anxiety, panic attacks, hysteria, depression).

Colitis

According to official statistics, inflammatory disease of the colon mucosa affects mainly women from 20 to 60 years old and men aged 40-60 years. Colitis occurs against the background of a deficiency of plant fiber, dysbacteriosis, and inflammation in the rectum (ascending path). The clinical picture depends on the form of the disease - acute colitis is characterized by:

• rumbling, flatulence;
• frequent tenesmus;
• loose stools (if the lesion is on the right side) with a foul odor;
• constipation, secretion of mucus produced by the inner wall, with blood (if the lesion is left-sided);
• sharp pain in the abdomen;
• increase in temperature;
• general malaise.

In women with acute colitis, the menstrual cycle may be disrupted, infertility may develop, and body weight may decrease. The chronic form is similar in symptoms to the acute form, but all manifestations are less pronounced; the following are added to the listed points:

• weakness, lethargy;
• loss of appetite;
• feeling of fullness, squeezing in the abdominal cavity;
• cramping pain that subsides after defecation after 2-3 hours;
• frequent bowel movements (up to 5 times a day).

Small bowel cancer

Malignant tumor lesions affecting the duodenum (50% of cases), jejunum (30%) or ileum (20%) are predominantly observed in elderly men (over 60 years of age). The disease often develops as a result of chronic gastrointestinal pathologies or against the background of epithelial benign tumors. In the initial stages of cancer, a person is concerned about:

• spastic pain in the epigastric region, prone to periodic repetition;
• loose stools followed by constipation;
• nausea, vomiting;
• flatulence;
• loss of body weight, which is constantly progressing (associated with tumor growth).

Gradually, the patient develops an aversion to food, the symptoms of a diseased intestine become more and more pronounced, and bleeding from the affected organ appears. Perforation (end-to-end destruction of the integrity) of the intestinal wall is not excluded, against the background of which the contents enter the abdominal cavity, peritonitis (infectious inflammation in this area) develops. With active tumor growth, the following are possible:

• intestinal obstruction;
• pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas);
• jaundice;
• ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity);
• intestinal fistulas (during the disintegration of cancer).

Enteritis

Chronic disease of the small intestine, characterized by inflammation of its mucosa, is polyetiological - several factors contribute to its occurrence. Often, enteritis is secondary in nature: it develops against the background of intestinal infections, including cholera, typhoid fever, and salmonellosis. Additionally, the following can contribute to the formation of the disease:

• alcohol;
• fatty and spicy foods;
• presence of food allergies;
• poisoning.

The clinical picture depends on the specific form of the disease: enteritis is often combined with inflammatory processes in neighboring parts of the gastrointestinal tract, which gives rise to gastroenteritis (with the stomach), enterocolitis (with the colon), duodenitis (inflammation of the duodenum). “Pure” acute enteritis, in which nearby organs are not affected, has the following symptoms:

• sudden pain in the umbilical area;
• increase in temperature;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• manifestations of general intoxication (weakness, lethargy, sweating, headache);
• dehydration (dry mucous membranes, cramps).

If enteritis is of viral origin, the clinical picture will look different: the disease will begin with fever, severe weakness, and dizziness. Afterwards, intestinal symptoms will be added: bloating, diarrhea (the frequency of bowel movements reaches 20 times a day), so dehydration occurs. In the chronic course of the disease the following are observed:

• rumbling in the stomach after eating;
• dull pain of low intensity near the navel;
• nausea;
• bloating;
• particles of undigested food in the stool;
• weight loss.

Colon cancer

The appearance of a malignant tumor in the colon or appendix (worm-shaped appendix), even at a late stage, is detected only in 70% of cases, which increases the risk of death. The causes of the disease can be obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse, poor diet, and intestinal pathologies with an inflammatory process. In the early stages, oncology is asymptomatic, but as the tumor grows, the following appear:

• constipation;
• bloating, rumbling;
• prolonged dull aching abdominal pain;
• blood in stool;
• decreased appetite or complete loss;
• increase in temperature;
• general malaise (feeling tired, weak);
• sudden weight loss;
• pallor of the skin.

Among nonspecific symptoms (typical of most intestinal diseases), doctors mention changes in the shape and/or nature of stool, excessive gas formation and a constant feeling of fullness, which provokes a false urge to defecate. The reason for contacting a doctor and examination should be signs of intestinal bleeding, anemia, increased fatigue and weight loss.

Adhesive process

When the integrity of the epithelial cells is damaged, connective tissue begins to grow, which leads to the connection of nearby layers of the serous membrane - this is how the adhesive process occurs. It can occur as a result of surgery, abdominal trauma, infection, appendicitis, ovarian diseases in women, or ruptured gastric ulcers. The process of formation of adhesions is slow, so symptoms do not appear immediately; patients consult a doctor with complications. The clinical picture may include:

• nagging pain that intensifies with physical activity and turns of the body;
• feeling of fullness;
• bloating, constipation;
• nausea, vomiting;
• absence of stool for more than 2 days (a sign of intestinal obstruction) with a normal diet.

Crohn's syndrome

An alternative name for this disease is granulomatous enteritis. Its symptoms are similar to ulcerative colitis, but bleeding is rare. Crohn's syndrome is characterized by damage to all parts of the gastrointestinal tract, transmural (on all layers of the digestive tube) inflammation, the formation of scars and ulcers on the walls. Among the causes of the disease are mentioned:

• hereditary;
• infectious – inflammation can be eliminated with antibiotics;
• immunological - due to internal failures, immune cells perceive the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract as foreign.

In men, Crohn's syndrome is diagnosed more often. The clinical picture is determined by the location, severity and duration of the disease. Among the most common symptoms doctors mention:

• cramping abdominal pain;
• diarrhea;
• weight loss;
• loss of appetite;
• increased body temperature;
• vomiting, nausea;
• bloating;
• mucus and blood in stool;
• anal fissures that do not heal for a long time;
• rectal fistulas.

As the disease progresses, metabolism is disrupted, large joints are affected, intestinal obstruction, iron deficiency anemia, and the formation of gallstones are observed. Extraintestinal complications may include blurred vision, oral ulcers, and skin rashes. Due to the lack of a specific clinical picture, Crohn's disease requires a colonoscopy with mandatory collection of intestinal tissue for examination.

Impaired motor function, which is not accompanied by organic changes in tissues (without inflammatory processes, ulcers, scars) and affects mainly the large intestine, is observed in 30% of the world's population. Women suffer from dyskinesia more often than men. The set of symptoms depends on the type of disease. With spastic (hypermotor) the following appear:

• constipation;
• colic in the abdomen;
• dizziness (due to stagnation of feces);
• nausea, weakness;
• hemorrhoids, fissures in the anus.

With any dyskinesia of the colon, pain may occur - aching, cutting, dull, boring, lasting from a couple of minutes to several hours. They do not have a clear localization; they can spread throughout the entire abdomen. They may appear after emotional upheaval or stress. Additionally, flatulence and stool disturbances occur: these may be the only symptoms of dyskinesia. In the atonic (hypomotor) type, the clinical picture includes:

• dull pain;
• feeling of fullness;
• dyspepsia;
• intestinal obstruction (rare).

Whipple syndrome

The nature of this disease is infectious, but an additional predisposing factor may be an immunological disorder. Whipple syndrome is predominantly diagnosed in men aged 40-50 years, it affects various organs, and therefore has a large number of extraintestinal symptoms. The clinical picture is determined by the stage of the disease:

1. Fever (increased temperature), polyarthritis (inflammation of several joints), cough with sputum.
2. Significant weight loss, anemia, severe diarrhea, malabsorption of nutrients, abdominal pain, muscle atrophy, problems with carbohydrate metabolism, steatorrhea (excretion of fats in feces).
3. Impaired adrenal function, damage to the nervous system, cardiovascular system.

The initial stage can last up to 8 years and during this time the characteristic signs of intestinal disease are often absent: gastrointestinal symptoms (related to the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract) are observed only at the 2nd stage. Due to this, diagnosing the disease is difficult. Treatment requires an individual approach, the prescription of antibiotics (mainly tetracyclines), and diet.

Treatment

Collecting medical history data, conducting laboratory tests (stool, blood), instrumental examinations (radiography, colonoscopy, ultrasound, laparoscopy) are necessary for correct diagnosis. Only with an understanding of all the features of a particular problem can a therapeutic regimen be prescribed. In case of neoplasms and adhesions, surgical intervention is suggested; in other cases, conservative treatment is possible:

For constipation, wheat bran, vegetable fiber (vegetables, fruits), laxatives (herbal decoctions) are needed.	The use of decoctions of bird cherry fruits, oak bark, St. John's wort for diarrhea. Recommended medications include activated carbon and polyphepan. Be sure to drink frequently to remove toxins and prevent dehydration.	Sedatives (natural or medicinal), antidepressants (with amitriptyline) for IBS or neuropathic dyskinesia, antispasmodics (with dicyclomine) for flatulence and frequent urge to defecate in a short course
Diet for intestinal diseases
Reducing the amount of animal fats, eliminating sweets, baked goods, fried foods, legumes, black bread, eggs, sour cream, canned food, milk	Eating warm food, pureed and boiled, up to 7-8 times a day, small portions, the amount of table salt is limited to 10 g	The basis of the diet is porridge with water, chicken, low-fat fish, non-acidic cottage cheese, jelly, juices, thermally processed vegetables and fruits
Chronic enteritis, colitis, dysbacteriosis
Taking enzyme preparations (Festal, Creon, Mezim) and those restoring intestinal motility (Cisapride, Metoclopramide)	The use of symptomatic drugs: painkillers (Ketanov, Analgin), antispasmodics (No-Shpa) not in courses	Taking probiotics to normalize intestinal microflora at the end of treatment (Bifidumbacterin, Narine, Linex)
Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis
For inflammatory processes with diarrhea, take Norfloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Ofloxacin for no longer than a week in doses prescribed by the doctor	For moderate or severe cases, Prednisolone is prescribed orally, first in an individual dose, after 5-10 mg/week. Long-term use of Sulfasalazine is possible	In severe fistulous form of Crohn's disease, Infliximab (5 mg/kg body weight) is administered intravenously 3 times a day.
Additional treatments
Intravenous administration of solutions that remove toxins (saline, glucose) - under the supervision of a physician in case of intoxication	Carrying out a cleansing enema to remove stagnant feces from the lower intestines (no more than 2 procedures per day)	For acute infections and diverticulosis of the small intestine, antibiotics (selected by a doctor) and a gentle diet are indicated. Afterwards, restoration of normalization of microflora with probiotics is required

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Intestinal pathologies in women manifest themselves in the same way as in men. But there are a number of diseases that can affect the genitourinary system. It is important to know what intestinal diseases exist and their symptoms in women in order to begin timely therapy and prevent the development of complications.

The body of a modern woman is subject to many negative factors that have a detrimental effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Among these factors:

• Stress, nervous tension;
• Having bad habits;
• Lack of balance in diet;
• Transmission of infectious diseases;
• Sedentary work or life style;
• Therapy using antibiotics.

Intestinal function is disrupted, which leads to discomfort. Several pathological processes are known, one of the manifestations of which will be pain in the intestinal area.

Intestinal pathologies:

The above pathologies are only part of the many ailments that are associated with the intestines. Therefore, it is recommended to undergo a full examination to accurately determine the cause of discomfort. You should not engage in self-diagnosis, since an incorrect diagnosis and treatment should be prescribed by a specialist.

Types and localization of pain

Painful sensations differ from each other not only in causes, localization, but also in the degree of manifestation. These factors should be taken into account.

• Discomfort in the navel area indicates the development of an inflammatory process in the small intestine;
• With pain on the right, in the lower peritoneum, there is an assumption of appendicitis;
• Unpleasant sensations at the bottom, on the left, indicate sigmoiditis (inflammatory process in the colon);
• Enterocolitis manifests itself in pain throughout the peritoneum.

Nature of pain:

• Acute;
• Aching;
• Stabbing;
• Cramping;
• Dull pain.

The pain is further divided by duration. It can be short-term, but acute, long-lasting, or occurring after eating food.

Symptoms of pathologies

The symptoms of some diseases are similar to each other, which greatly complicates the diagnosis of diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to know the signs of pathologies that are most dangerous to the body. There are a number of symptoms that characterize many gastrointestinal diseases:

• Decreased appetite;
• Changes in diarrhea and difficulty defecating;
• Painful sensations of various localizations;
• Increased fatigue;
• The appearance of problems with the skin;
• The appearance of an unpleasant taste or odor in the mouth.

For example, diseases of the rectum are characterized by a false urge to defecate, bloating, and painful sensations spreading throughout the entire abdominal cavity. In women, hormonal levels can increase, and it will not depend on the cycle of menstrual days.

For enteritis, the presence of nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and lack of desire to eat are noted. Fecal masses have a liquid consistency, but it is not possible to wash off the feces the first time. Attacks of food allergic reactions occur less frequently.

Whipple's disease is an infectious pathology. It is accompanied by headaches, hearing impairment, sleep disturbances, and trembling in the hands. Less commonly, in patients with this disease, the rhythm of the heart muscle accelerates, a constant desire to eat and drink appears, and dementia further progresses. The latter symptom is more often encountered by women over 60 years of age.

The small intestine may be affected by cancer if symptoms occur in the form of: compression of the navel area, nausea, vomiting. Weight decreases rapidly, vision and skin quality deteriorate. Oncological pathology can be detected at an early stage, but its main manifestations may not be perceived as a reason to see a doctor.

Crohn's disease is manifested by pain in the navel area, frequent rumbling, and diarrhea. With chronic colitis, which often appears in people who have had dysentery, signs of intoxication appear. In addition, blood can be seen in the stool, insomnia appears, and as a result, irritability occurs.

With nonspecific ulcerative colitis, weakness and diarrhea appear. In some cases, scarlet blood comes from the direct part of the intestine. This disease has not been fully studied, so you should pay careful attention to its signs; it is believed that you can get rid of this pathology if it is diagnosed in time.

With the development of cancer, when the large intestine is affected, constipation becomes more frequent, increased fatigue occurs, and body temperature may rise several degrees. Less commonly, an attack of diarrhea occurs; sometimes it is possible to notice streaks of blood in the stool, often in small quantities.

There are many diseases that have similar symptoms, for example, hemorrhoids can be compared to cancerous tumors in the rectum, but in the early stages it is safe for human health. Despite this, you should seek help from a doctor when the first symptoms of illness appear.

Diagnosis of diseases

Without contacting a doctor, it will not be possible to make a definitive diagnosis or prescribe therapy. Therefore, if there are signs of pathology developing, you should contact a gastroenterologist, who will perform an examination, collect an anamnesis, perform palpation, and then be able to give a referral for a comprehensive examination. A comprehensive examination is considered to be the study of a woman’s body using laboratory or instrumental methods.

A woman will need to undergo a blood test (general, biochemical), urine, vaginal smear, and, if necessary, an analysis of the intestinal mucosa. For women under 40 years of age, you should additionally undergo examination by a gynecologist to be examined for pregnancy, as you will have to take medications that are not compatible with pregnancy. Using colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, ultrasound, CT or MRI, it is possible to make the most accurate diagnosis. Accordingly, it is possible to prescribe competent therapy, with the help of which the patient will soon be able to live a full life.

Therapeutic measures

Treatment of intestinal diseases for the female half of humanity is not much different from if a man were treated. Therapy depends on the severity of symptoms, the presence of complicating factors, or the condition of the patient.

You will need to take anti-inflammatory medications. If the virus enters the body, antibacterial drugs should be taken. Painful sensations should be allowed to subside with the help of an anesthetic or antispasmodic drug. Attacks of poisoning are treated with Regidron to maintain water balance. Manifestations of diarrhea or constipation require taking a laxative, a stool-strengthening drug. There are several ways to get rid of obstruction. For example, using the surgical method (for severe obstruction that could not be relieved with medications). You can take specialized medications that gently liquefy the stool.

Diet in the treatment of intestinal diseases is an important point, without which you should not expect positive results. Since diseases often cause inflammatory bowel disease, it is recommended to exclude foods from your diet that can irritate the intestines. These products are:

• Sour, salty, sweet, spicy;
• Fried, pickled, smoked;
• Fat;
• Bakery products made from butter dough;
• Coffee, carbonated drinks, alcohol-containing drinks;
• Freeze-dried instant meals;
• Fast food.

Should be used:

• Fresh dishes;
• Soups based on vegetable broths;
• Low fat meat or fish;
• Fruits, vegetables;
• Porridge;
• Fermented milk products;
• Steamed cutlets;
• Tea, compotes, herbal decoctions.

It is important to remember about the drinking regime and eating schedule. The best option for eating is to eat food at the same time, at least 4 times a day. Portions should be small, but sufficient to satisfy hunger. The temperature of food or drinks should not be below room temperature. You should drink water every 2-3 hours. For healthy life, a person needs to drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day. But this indicator is individual, depending on the person’s age, weight, and health status.

Food must be fresh. This will avoid intestinal disorders and infections. The main danger is represented by products that have expired, products in foreign countries that a person has not tried before, etc.

Complications

Complications for the female body can be fatal, so you should pay attention to changes in your health. Some pathologies, such as intestinal ulcers, can sometimes develop into cancer. Oncological pathology takes a long time to be treated, but there is no guarantee of 100% recovery. In addition, some diseases are closely related to the reproductive organs, and intestinal diseases can prevent conceiving a child and subsequently lead to the development of infertility.

In addition to discomfort, certain diseases can cause intoxication. This phenomenon occurs in the absence of therapy, for example, appendicitis. When the appendix ruptures, the particles that were in it enter the peritoneum along with pus.

Intestinal diseases affect the absorption of nutrients from food.

Due to the fact that diarrhea is a symptom of certain pathologies, the risk of dehydration increases. If a woman has pain in her intestines, you should not wait until the pain intensifies or complications begin, since the neglected processes become irreversible.

Preventive measures

The prevention of intestinal diseases is considered to be adherence to a proper diet. Eating dry or on the run does not promote good health. It is not recommended to ignore pain in the peritoneal area, since even mild discomfort can indicate in advance that there is a risk of developing serious pathologies. You should not neglect going to the doctor, since without his help it is almost impossible to get rid of severe intestinal diseases.

You need to play sports or take a walk before bed; light exercises will help improve peristalsis and avoid constipation. It is enough to do side bends, squats and crunches every day. Then intestinal problems may subside and not appear again until the person returns to their previous lifestyle.

It is important to remember that regular examination of the digestive organs helps to detect diseases, even if the stage is early, and to prevent their further development or worsening of the condition.

You should not abuse the use of laxatives or frequently resort to using enemas, so that lazy bowel syndrome does not occur, when without taking the drug or using an enema, a person is unable to defecate.

Gastrointestinal diseases are a serious cause for concern. Many diseases lie dormant inside the human body for a long time, but when the influence of various factors appears, the person’s condition worsens and becomes pronounced. Self-medication is dangerous, since the symptoms of a diseased intestine, which began to manifest itself actively, may suffer.

A large number of people treat their health with disdain and without due respect. If the symptoms are not very annoying, then the patient can drown them out with drugs that were prescribed not by the doctor, but by himself. This treatment can be dangerous. And only when various pathological disorders arise do we rush to specialized medical institutions. In most cases, amateur activity leads to deterioration of health, namely to the development of intestinal problems.

The symptoms, treatment and preventive measures are well known to people from commercials. Failures and functional disorders of the digestive system are one of the most common health problems. The patient should always remember that the correct functioning of entire systems (excretory, respiratory, circulatory, nervous, etc.) depends on the normal activity of the suction organ. It is for this reason that it is quite important to diagnose a pathological disease and effectively deal with it. Only a qualified doctor can identify dangerous symptoms and prescribe quality treatment.

The intestine is an important part of the digestive system, where the process of absorption of nutrients occurs. The organ consists of several segments: thin and thick. The thin section is involved in the breakdown of products (digestion), the thick section is involved in the absorption of water, substances and the formation of fecal-type masses.

The human intestine has a complex structure and accumulates a large number of microorganisms in its lining. The lion's share of these structures is occupied by beneficial microbes (favorable microflora). This systemic ratio productively forms immunity and the generation of vitamins B, K and exclusive amino acids. Metabolic processes at the cellular level are maintained quite accurately.

A person’s well-being deteriorates significantly if the balance of beneficial microflora is reduced to a minimum. Pathogenic microorganisms can eliminate protein, carbohydrate and fat structures in a short period of time. The symptoms of this disorder can be quite severe. As a result, disturbances in the functioning of the stomach and intestines are formed, and the activity of viral diseases increases markedly. The complex of these disorders is called dysbiosis. Poor nutrition, regular stressful situations, long-term treatment with strong antibiotics – all these factors greatly influence the development of the pathological disorder. Treatment is based on taking special probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (special dietary fiber). The recovery process is prescribed by the doctor.

Food contains a large amount of valuable substances. Probiotics are found in bifidokefir and bifidoyogurt. Dietary fiber is found in bran, fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and whole grains. The body can also be supported with the help of special biologically active food supplements.

Intestinal problems are very common. Disturbances in the frequency of bowel movements in a person are called constipation. Rare bowel movements can provoke a series of serious diseases of the digestive system.

Functions of the gastrointestinal tract and symptoms of the disorder

The multifunctional organ of the digestive system not only processes foods, but also takes an active part in the process of removing decay products. The intestines perform the following tasks:

• targeted release of nutrients into the blood;
• synthesis process for the formation of hormones and vitamins;
• structuring the immune system;
• removal of decay products and feces through the rectum;
• continuation of the process of digestion of food all the way after the stomach.

The intestine is a fairly universal organ. Not all of us understand and realize the importance of its normal work. Symptoms, treatment and subtleties of a balanced diet - everyone needs to know all this so as not to ignore the emerging disease. Short-term intestinal disorders that occur without spasms should not cause serious problems for a person. Even in completely healthy parts of the suction organ, short-term difficulties with defecation, increased accumulation of gases and a feeling of distension of the internal cavity form from time to time.

Seeking medical help would be a rational decision when real symptoms of intestinal disease occur:

1. severe acute pain indicates serious intestinal problems. In the diagnostic process, it is quite important to establish the site of localization, the nature of the disorder and the frequency of pain. Unpleasant sensations in the iliac region require special attention;
2. systematic or isolated sensations of unpleasant direction, which are concentrated below the umbilical formation. This is a serious reason to consult a doctor and promptly prevent the development of complications;
3. feeling of nausea, gag reflex, general weakness. These are the symptoms that are a consequence of the development of an acute intestinal infection and food poisoning. If the vomit contains blood particles, then you simply need to immediately contact an experienced specialist. The doctor will conduct a detailed examination and establish an accurate diagnosis;
4. anemia + allergies – signs of impaired intestinal absorption. Such symptoms indicate that certain nutritional components simply do not enter the blood;
5. prolonged and frequent constipation indicates disorders of the large intestine;
6. systematic appearance of frequent loose stools. Food may be found in the stool in an undigested form. This indicates malfunctions in all parts of the suction organ;
7. feces of black pigmentation + blood - obvious symptoms of physical damage to the gastrointestinal tract, the presence of ulcerative areas, the occurrence of oncological processes and hemorrhoidal inflammation;
8. flatulence in the intestines is closely related to dysbiosis and various inflammatory processes.

Practical medicine identifies a large number of severe diseases of the digestive system, which develop for various reasons. These may be nervous disorders, malfunctions of the circulatory and skeletal systems, and serious physical activity.

Classification of diseases of the suction organ

Signs of diseases of the small and large intestines are very wide. For convenience, doctors classified them into two groups according to the nature of the syndromes (factors that have common features with each other). In this way, the doctor will be able to quickly determine the nature of the manifestation of the disease and select high-quality and effective treatment. Fundamental syndromes characterizing problems in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract are:

1. Dyspeptic-type syndrome is a fairly extensive complex of manifestations that boil down to homogeneous intestinal diseases;
2. pain syndrome – pain of varying nature and intensity level. Dull attacks are closely associated with spasm of smooth muscles and the membrane of the absorptive organ.

Manifestation of dyspeptic syndrome

This symptom complex includes a whole group of factors that border on various gastrointestinal ailments. A sick person exhibits the following symptoms:

• a sharp decrease in appetite (associated with almost all intestinal diseases);
• severe bloating (flatulence). The pathological disorder is mainly associated with a lack of digestive enzymes of the pancreas and weak activity of the mucous membrane of the small intestine. A feature of the digestion process in this state is that in the process of processing food, bacteria release a decent amount of gases. Thus, the abdomen increases significantly in size, and bursting pain develops. A serious condition occurs with pancreatitis and enteritis. The body tries to protect itself and, through the mechanism of nausea and vomiting reflexes, gets rid of toxins. Often the patient needs to seek help from a doctor;
• Diarrhea is a protective reaction of the body to the activity of toxic substances in the body. With this disease, increased peristalsis occurs in the intestinal lining. This is the orderly movement of smooth muscles that ensure the movement of food mass. A disorder of the absorption organ leads to the formation of frequent stools. The discharge has a liquid structure and a pungent odor. Diarrhea occurs with various chronic infections. Subsequently, the patient may experience serious problems with bowel movements (constipation) + inflammation of the large intestine (colitis). These ailments can be effectively treated only by a special set of measures prescribed by a gastroenterologist.

Pain syndrome

Pain syndrome is a whole system of factors that manifest themselves in the gastrointestinal tract with varying degrees of localization, level of intensity and nature:

• dull pain may occur in the epigastric area, which indicates an inflammatory process of the mucous membrane in the body;
• pain of an acute type of point manifestation (epigastric + left part of the abdomen) is a sign of the development of gastric ulcer (including in women);
• aching pain that accumulates in the umbilical zone is a symptom of enteritis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the small intestine);
• pain in the lower abdomen occurs with the development of sigmoditis;
• inflammation of the appendix is ​​accompanied by sharp colic in the lower part of the abdominal cavity - in this case, you must immediately go to a doctor who will help in a dangerous situation or call an emergency ambulance.

Accurate knowledge of the symptoms of diseases by a person will help to quickly make the right decision and decide which doctor to see. Whatever the improvement after taking medications, consult with an experienced specialist.

The surgeon deals with severe inflammations that require radical intervention. Only the doctor decides whether to perform such operations or not. A gastroenterologist treats diseases that are associated with the functionality of the gastrointestinal tract.

Most experienced doctors can diagnose intestinal problems after the first visual examination of a patient. Symptoms of such diseases often appear on the face. Acne, vascular-type stars, allergic rashes, papillomas are more or less associated with the functioning of the digestive organs. Often there is a disruption of the sebaceous glands, which affects excessive dryness/oily skin. With a long course of illnesses, a person quickly ages. Pigment spots and wrinkles appear on his face, and increased sweat production is observed. In this way, the body removes negative substances and structures.

What ailment can arise as a result of the patient’s inaction? The list of such disorders and disorders is long: gangrenous pyoderma, erythema nodosum, purulent stomatitis, cutaneous vasculitis. These pathological disorders are effectively treated by traditional medicine. The procedures must be carried out strictly according to the specified recipe and scheme. The most effective herbal remedies are: chamomile, dill seeds, sweet anise, plantain, calendula, wormwood, sage, aloe. The beneficial properties of honey, walnut shells, and oak bark have long been known. Flax seeds help with constipation, and fennel and dill help with flatulence. Decoctions should be made in a quiet and secluded room.

Nutrition for intestinal problems is a productive mechanism for optimizing the digestion process. The food intake pattern should be based on easily digestible foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Eating food should be fractional and dosed.

Content

Intestinal diseases are a very sensitive topic, so many people seek help in an already advanced state. Don’t be ashamed of the problem that has arisen, because at an early stage it will be much easier to deal with it. In addition, many intestinal diseases lead to dangerous complications. This organ in the human body is responsible for the absorption of nutrients. Many diseases are associated with it, which differ in certain symptoms, but have several common methods of diagnosis and treatment.

What is bowel disease

These are pathologies in which the intestinal mucosa is affected in a certain part of the organ or throughout its entire length. Most diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are associated with this department. Doctors note that almost all pathologies of the intestinal canal have been well studied and are therefore easy to treat, even though this organ has a complex structure. It consists of two departments:

1. Thin. Its function is to absorb nutrients necessary for the body. The section originates from the pylorus of the stomach and ends with the ileocecal valve. The latter connects the thick and thin sections of the intestinal canal. Includes the duodenum, jejunum and ileum.
2. Tolstoy. There are three sections: the cecum (with the appendix), the colon and the rectum. Their function is to absorb water from the “former food gruel” into the blood. This department is additionally responsible for the design of feces and their timely removal from the body.

The intestinal canal performs several vital functions, such as digestion of food, evacuation of feces, gas formation, protection from food allergens and infectious agents. For this reason, any disorders associated with this organ affect the general condition of the body. All diseases of this section of the gastrointestinal tract are divided into:

• extraintestinal - develop from other organs, but affect the digestive tract;
• intestinal, or local - connected directly to the intestinal canal.

This organ is several meters long. For this reason, there are many diseases that can affect any part of the intestine. General list of ailments and the name of the intestine affected by the pathological process:

• sigmoiditis - sigmoid;
• proctitis – straight;
• enteritis – thin;
• colitis - colon;
• appendicitis - appendix;
• jeunit – skinny;
• duodenitis – thin and duodenum;
• ileitis – ileum;
• tiphlit - blind.

The most common diseases of the small intestine are enteritis, duodenitis and adhesive disease. Tumors can form here, just like in the large intestine. Any part of the organ is affected by Crohn's disease. Diseases of the large intestine are more numerous:

• dyskinesia;
• dysbacteriosis;
• haemorrhoids;
• diverticulosis;
• irritable bowel syndrome;
• obstruction;
• ulcerative colitis.

Diseases of the intestinal canal have another classification based on the etiology of the disease. According to this criterion, medicinal, toxic, traumatic, radiological, congenital and other pathologies are distinguished. The more common ones are:

There are many different causes of intestinal diseases. In most cases, their development is influenced by several factors at once, which complicates the course of the disease and its subsequent treatment. The most common cause is poor nutrition. Spicy, fatty, salty, smoked foods, an abundance of sugar, fat and additives lead to digestive disorders. Other causes of disease include:

The main symptom of problems with the intestinal tract is abdominal pain. It can have different localization and intensity depending on the disease. If the pathology is associated with the small intestine, then severe pain around the navel of a pulling and aching nature is observed. In case of spasms, patients complain of intestinal colic. In diseases of the colon, pain is localized in the iliac region, on the left or right. The sensations are bursting, and they weaken after the passage of gas or defecation and do not depend in any way on food intake.

Inflammation of any part of the intestinal canal is accompanied by gastrointestinal distress. It manifests itself in the form of the following symptoms:

1. Diarrhea, when the frequency of stool exceeds 3-4 times a day. Fecal masses in diseases of the small intestine are liquid and abundant, may contain particles of undigested food, and in pathologies of the large intestine, they include traces of mucus or streaks of blood.
2. Flatulence. Regardless of the location of the inflammation, bloating may be observed, which intensifies in the evening.
3. Constipation. Prolonged stool retention is typical for diseases of the colon. Constipation often alternates with diarrhea.
4. Exchange disorders. These include anemia, weight loss, vitamin deficiency, which is manifested by dry skin, cracks in the corners of the mouth, and pinpoint hemorrhages. Symptoms of intestinal disease in women also include disruption of the menstrual cycle, which is why the disease is confused with inflammation or ovarian cancer.

Symptoms of small intestinal disease

The main function of the small intestine is to nourish the body at the cellular level. When this section becomes inflamed, the absorption of essential nutrients is weakened. The following symptoms indicate this:

• bloating;
• frequent loose stools mixed with mucus, blood, or undigested food;
• rumbling in the lower abdomen;
• soreness in the area around the navel or in the abdomen on the right.

Eosinophilic enteritis

1. Mucous membrane. As a result of its damage, intolerance to certain foods and malabsorption syndrome are observed.
2. Muscular membrane. In this case, rigidity and thickening of the wall of the small intestine and symptoms of intestinal obstruction are noted. X-rays reveal pyloric stenosis.
3. Subserous tissues. When this layer is damaged, ascites with eosinophilia in the ascitic fluid is observed. Sometimes, due to a narrowing of the lumen of the canal, obstruction develops. The main symptom is diarrhea, which occurs in 30-60% of cases.

Whipple's disease

This rare intestinal disease is infectious in nature. It has other names: intestinal lipodystrophy, mesenteric lipogranulomatosis. Whipple's disease is accompanied by a violation of cellular and humoral immunity. The disease affects, in addition to the small intestine, the synovial membranes of the joints and mesenteric lymph nodes. As the disease progresses, other organs become involved in the pathological process. It occurs in several stages:

1. First. Accompanied by extraintestinal manifestations: fever, headache, damage to lymph nodes and joints.
2. Second. Here there is pronounced dysfunction of the intestinal tract in the form of indigestion and weight loss.
3. Third. At this stage, the cardiovascular and nervous systems are affected.

Against the background of Whipple's disease, malabsorption syndrome develops, due to which patients experience night blindness, signs of glossitis, cheilitis and gingivitis. The disease begins with enlarged lymph nodes and redness of the skin over the joints. Later, signs of damage to the digestive tract appear:

• steatorrhea, i.e. fatty stools;
• severe, foul-smelling diarrhea and large, ointment-like or foamy stools;
• anemia;
• flatulence;
• paroxysmal abdominal pain.

The occurrence of malignant tumors in the small intestine is a rare occurrence. They account for only 1% of cancers in the digestive tract. The danger of this pathology is that its symptoms coincide with the symptoms of other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Small bowel cancer causes:

• bloating;
• nausea, vomiting;
• pain in the epigastric region;
• weakness;
• weight loss.

In gastroenterology, duodenal cancer is more common, less common - jejunal or ileal. The causes may be chronic inflammatory or enzymatic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. As the tumor grows, obstructive intestinal obstruction joins the listed symptoms. As a result, compression of neighboring organs occurs, which can lead to:

• pancreatitis;
• ascites;
• jaundice;
• intestinal ischemia.

When tumors ulcerate, fistulas appear. The prognosis is not very comforting: with resection of tumors and the absence of metastases, it is possible to achieve a survival rate of 35-40% in the next 5 years. In general, the outcome depends on the stage of the process and the histological structure of the tumor. To prevent the disease, it is important to remove benign tumors in the small intestine in a timely manner and to be observed by a gastroenterologist in the presence of chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

Colon

This department is responsible not only for the absorption of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, but also for the formation of feces from the remains of processed food and their removal from the body. The main symptom of inflammation in the colon is discomfort in the lower abdomen. There are other characteristic features:

• bloating;
• fecal incontinence;
• rumbling in the stomach;
• pain in the anus, on the sides of the abdomen;
• discharge of mucus from the anus;
• sexual desire disorder;
• diarrhea, constipation, their alternation;
• release of gases;
• unproductive urge to go to the toilet;
• weakness;
• weight loss;
• vitamin deficiency.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Otherwise, this disease is called dyskinesia, spastic bowel and mucous colitis. Irritable bowel syndrome is abbreviated as IBS. The disease is caused by disturbances in colon motility, which leads to gastrointestinal disorders. The exact cause of the syndrome is still unknown. Great importance in its development is given to the psycho-emotional state, heredity, nutrition and composition of the microflora. The main symptoms of IBS are:

• rumbling in the stomach;
• bowel dysfunction;
• bloating;
• pain in the intestinal area.

Attacks of diarrhea are more common in the morning. The urge to defecate occurs after breakfast. When you have a bowel movement, the pain and discomfort go away. Patients note that diarrhea also occurs against the background of psycho-emotional stress. Regardless of nutrition, the patient suffers from rumbling, constipation, and abdominal pain. Sometimes discomfort is even felt in the back, heart and joints. IBS is difficult to distinguish from chronic pancreatitis, dysbacteriosis and oncology. Diagnosis is often based on the patient’s subjective complaints and careful history taking.

Diverticulosis

The term “diverticulum” means stretching of the intestinal wall, which leads to the formation of a pocket in it that protrudes into the abdominal cavity. Such formations are most often localized in the descending and sigmoid sections. The disease is called diverticulosis. The main reasons for its development are weak tone of the intestinal walls and constant constipation. Uncomplicated diverticula only cause constipation and heaviness in the abdomen. In case of their inflammation, in addition to stool disturbances, the following appear:

• elevated temperature;
• abdominal pain;
• mucus and blood in stool;
• diarrhea.

Chronic colitis

According to statistics, chronic colitis occurs in half of people with digestive problems. The disease is an inflammation of the colon mucosa. The pathology is characterized by alternating periods of exacerbation and remission. Colitis can develop as a result of dysbiosis, weakened immunity, or lack of plant fiber. Its presence is indicated by:

• flatulence;
• sharp pain after eating;
• rumbling;
• weakness;
• inconsistent bowel movements with alternating constipation and diarrhea;
• a feeling of bitterness in the mouth;
• loss of appetite.

According to the degree of prevalence, colitis can be total or segmental. In the first case, the pathological process affects all parts of the colon, in the second - only a certain part of it. According to another classification, there are:

1. Spastic colitis. Accompanied by severe pain in different parts of the intestine due to involuntary spasms. The cause is a violation of intestinal motility.
2. Nonspecific ulcerative colitis. It develops due to immune failures, the cause of which has not yet been clarified. The main symptoms of colitis include ulcers and bleeding. This form of colitis is dangerous due to the possible development of cancer.

Cancer

Among oncological pathologies, colon cancer occupies one of the leading places. People over 40 years of age are more susceptible to it. The main risk factor is an unhealthy diet low in insoluble fiber and vitamins. Refined foods with large amounts of trans and animal fats have a negative effect on the colon. People whose relatives suffered from ulcerative colitis are predisposed to cancer of this organ.

In the early stages, the tumor does not manifest itself in any way. Cancer is often discovered during a random endoscopic examination. If the patient has not undergone it, then over time he notices the following symptoms:

• constipation;
• blood in stool;
• severe emaciation;
• pain during defecation;
• weakness;
• temperature.

Colon cancer symptoms are similar to other intestinal pathologies, so a tumor process cannot be excluded. If you have the listed symptoms, you should consult a doctor: have a stool test for occult blood, undergo a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, and check for oncogenicity of polyps and cysts. Colon cancer is treated radically through surgery and chemotherapy. The prognosis for five-year survival at the first stage of the pathological process is 90%, at 2-3 – 60-85%, and at the last – 7%.

Diagnostics

Since the symptoms of different intestinal diseases are similar, you cannot diagnose yourself. When the first pathological signs appear, you should consult a doctor. Based on the examination and a series of studies, the specialist will be able to get a complete understanding of the disease, its nature and location. To make a correct diagnosis, the following methods are used:

1. Flexible sigmoidoscopy. Using a special device - a sigmoidoscope, the doctor examines all parts of the intestine.
2. Irrigoscopy. This is an x-ray procedure in which a contrast agent is injected into the cavity of the organ being examined. To study the small intestine, the patient is given a suspension of barium sulfate to swallow, and the large intestine is injected with a special drug through the anus.
3. Upper endoscopy. This method involves the use of an endoscope that has illumination and fiber optics. This helps the specialist examine the tissues of the esophageal tube, stomach and intestines.
4. Colonoscopy. This is a specialized type of endoscopy. In this case, the endoscope device is inserted through the anus and not through the mouth.
5. Capsule endoscopy. This is a modern technique in which the intestines are examined using a tiny container. The patient simply swallows it. Throughout the day, the device records incoming information.

Treatment

Intestinal diseases are treated by a gastroenterologist. A proctologist deals with ailments of the rectum, an infectious disease specialist deals with infectious lesions, and an oncologist deals with tumors. When the first symptoms appear, you should consult a therapist. After the examination, he will refer you to more specialized specialists. The treatment regimen will depend on the disease. Tumors are removed surgically, and other intestinal pathologies are first treated with conservative methods. It is mandatory to prescribe medications from the following list:

1. Improving intestinal motility: Metoclopramide, Cisapride. They improve the activity of the digestive tract, accelerate emptying processes, and have an antiemetic effect.
2. Immunostimulants: Immunal, Viferon. Used as complementary therapy to balance the immune system.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Rektodelt, Salofalk. They help to quickly alleviate the condition by relieving pain.
4. Antibacterial: Bifidumbacterin, Lactobacterin. These medications have an antibacterial effect against a number of microbes: staphylococci, shigella, E. coli. Additionally, they normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and have a positive effect on metabolic processes.
5. Enzymatic: Creon, Festal, Pancreatin, Mezim. These drugs improve the digestion process by replenishing the deficiency of pancreatic enzymes.
6. Normalizing microflora: Linex, Lactofiltrum. They are often prescribed after long antibacterial courses or immediately along with antibiotics.
7. Antispasmodics: No-shpa, Baralgin, Spazmalgon. Relieves pain and spasms caused by problems in the intestines.

In case of chronic pathology, taking medications can last about six months. Some intestinal diseases are treated with surgery. Most operations are aimed at removing the affected parts or eliminating obstruction. If necessary, an artificial anus is applied - a colostomy. Colon cancer cannot be treated without radiation and chemotherapy.

Drug treatment is often complemented by physiotherapeutic methods. For intestinal problems, the following procedures are used:

• colon hydrotherapy;
• rising shower;
• selective chromotherapy;
• oxygen, radon, pine, pearl baths;
• thermal procedures on the epigastric region (ozokerite, paraffin, mud applications);
• galvanic current;
• iontophoresis;
• diathermy.

Diet

Taking medication alone is not enough to treat intestinal diseases. The patient must follow a special diet that is aimed at:

• normalization of digestion;
• stimulation of restoration processes in the intestinal mucosa;
• normalizing microflora;
• replenishment of the body with nutrients;
• elimination of metabolic disorders.

Dishes should include a maximum of vitamins and beneficial microelements. The products used are well boiled, stewed or baked, but not fried. Food must be taken 5-6 times every day at regular intervals. The optimal serving size is 200-250 g. Other nutritional rules:

• do not eat dry food;
• do not overeat;
• do not eat 3-4 hours before bedtime;
• don't starve.

It is necessary to completely exclude from the diet foods that impair digestion, lead to constipation, diarrhea or flatulence. Their list includes:

• roast;
• fat;
• smoked;
• spicy;
• sweets;
• fatty broths;
• fried soups;
• bananas;
• fatty meat, fish;
• strong coffee and tea;
• muffins.

The menu should not contain products with coarse fiber: potatoes, beans, cabbage, zucchini, celery, bran, beans, nuts. If you have diarrhea, you need to pay attention to fluids. It is recommended to drink more warm water to prevent dehydration. Lemon tea, non-carbonated alkaline drinks, blueberry infusions, and apple juice are useful in this case. They are consumed on the first day of diarrhea. On the second day you can add crackers without spices and additives, on the third day you can add products that reduce intestinal motility:

• rice concoctions;
• liquid porridge;
• weak chicken broths;
• fine-grained low-fat cottage cheese;
• vegetable puree;
• jelly from berries and fruits.

For constipation, on the contrary, you need to consume more fiber, but also continue to drink plenty of fluids. Reduced portions of food eaten help to activate intestinal function in case of difficulty in defecation. For easy digestion, it should have a temperature of 38-40 degrees and be as crushed as possible. Helpful for constipation are:

• buckwheat, pearl barley, wheat and oatmeal;
• fresh vegetables;
• green;
• apples, plums, kiwi;
• rich vegetable soups;
• kefir, sour cream, yogurt, yogurt.

Prevention

The key to healthy gastrointestinal tract is a balanced diet. It is recommended to eat at the same time every day so that digestive juices are released synchronously. Food should be distributed evenly between all meals. To avoid constipation, you should not eat dry food - you need to drink enough water every day. The optimal food temperature is not too different from room temperature. In this case, the food will not irritate the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. Other preventive measures:

• giving up bad habits;
• maintaining normal weight;
• take any medications carefully and only in consultation with your doctor;
• observe the rules of hygiene;
• lead an active lifestyle;
• avoid stress and anxiety.

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Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Intestinal disease: symptoms and treatment