Digestive Problems

FHS services that can help digestive problems:

• Naturopathic Medicine
• Osteopath 
• Chinese Medicine Acupuncturist
• Physiotherapy

What are digestive problems?

The digestive system is an intricate and extensive part of the body. It ranges all the way from the mouth to the rectum. The digestive system helps your body absorb essential nutrients and is responsible for getting rid of waste.

Digestion problems can mean more than unwanted symptoms. Minor problems that are left untreated can lead to more serious, chronic illnesses.

Because there are so many different types of digestion problems, you might mistakenly dismiss them. It’s important to understand common digestion problems — as well as emergency symptoms — so you know when to talk to a doctor.

Our innovative care strategies at For Health's Sake will help you find quick relief. If you want to see how osteopath, acupuncture, or physiotherapy may help you please contact us or book a FREE consultation today in Downtown (Queen St West), Leslieville (Queen St East) or Kingsway (Etobicoke)!

Types of common digestive problems:

Chronic constipation

Chronic constipation indicates a problem with getting rid of waste. This most often occurs when the colon can’t pass or move stools through the rest of the digestive tract. You may experience abdominal pain and bloating as well as fewer bowel movements (which are more painful than usual).

Chronic constipation is a very common digestive problem. Getting enough fiber, water, and exercise will likely help curb constipation.

Food intolerance

Food intolerance occurs when your digestive system can’t tolerate certain foods. Unlike food allergies, which can cause hives and respiratory problems, and intolerance only affects digestion.

Symptoms of food intolerance include:

• bloating and/or cramps
• diarrhea
• headache
• heartburn
• irritability
• gas
• vomiting

Food intolerance is usually diagnosed by keeping and reviewing a food diary. Recording what you eat and when can help you identify which foods are triggering your symptoms.

Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder, is one type of food intolerance. It causes digestive problems when you eat gluten (a protein in wheat, barley, and rye). People with celiac disease must follow a gluten-free diet to minimize symptoms and damage to the small intestine.

GERD gastroesophageal reflux disease

Heartburn is an occasional occurrence for many adults. This happens when stomach acids go back up into the esophagus, causing chest pain and the trademark burning sensation.

If you have more frequent heartburn, you might have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Such frequent episodes can interfere with your daily life and damage your esophagus.

Symptoms of GERD include:

• chest discomfort
• dry cough
• sour taste in the mouth
• sore throat
• swallowing difficulties

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a type of chronic swelling. It affects one or more parts of the digestive tract.

There are two types of IBD:

• Crohn’s disease: affects the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract but most commonly affects the small intestine and the colon
• ulcerative colitis: affects only the colon

IBD can cause more general digestive ailments, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Other symptoms can include:

• fatigue
• incomplete bowel movements
• loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss
• night sweats
• rectal bleeding

It’s important to diagnose and treat IBD as soon as possible. Not only will you be more comfortable, but the early treatment also reduces damage to the GI tract.

Call For Health's Sake in Downtown (Queen St West), Leslieville (Queen St East) or Kingsway (Etobicoke) today to schedule an appointment; we’ll help you get back to feeling better!