Advances in Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Endoscopy

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Our Gastrointestinal tract, together with our liver, pancreas, and gallbladder, make up our digestive system. An extensive network of blood vessels supply blood to these organs and also transport nutrients away to other organs in the body. Nerves and hormones work together to regulate the functioning of the digestive system and bacteria that reside within our GI tract (called our gut flora or microbiome) play a role in digestion, immunity, and our overall health. A membranous sac called the peritoneum holds all the digestive system organs in place Symptoms of digestive disorders obviously vary from condition to condition and from person to person. However, some symptoms are common to most gastrointestinal problems. Common symptoms includes

• Abdominal discomfort (bloating, pain or cramps)


• Unintentional weight loss


• Vomiting and nausea


• Acid reflux (heartburn)


• Diarrhea, constipation (or sometimes both)


• Fecal incontinence


• Fatigue


• Loss of appetite


• Difficulty swallowing