Medical conditions that affect any part of the digestive system, also known as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, are ​digestive diseases.​ They can range widely in severity, and affect people of all ages. Treatment for digestive diseases usually includes dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as medications and, in more severe cases, surgery.

Dr. Chanu Dasari is a top Summerlin gastrointestinal surgeon and disease expert, and is committed to providing the best, fastest care available to all of his patients.

While everyone experiences some of these symptoms every now and then, it is important to pay attention to issues that become persistent. Certain conditions of the GI tract can be very serious, and even lead to life-threatening conditions like cancer. If you begin to notice one or more of these symptoms that lasts longer than a few days, please make an appointment with your physician.

Talk to your doctor if you have recently experienced:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Difficulty swallowing
• Increased urination
• Appetite changes
• Heartburn
• Unexpected weight changes

Once you visit your doctor, they will likely evaluate your family and medical history, as well as inquire about your dietary habits. Depending on your symptoms, they may also perform a physical exam in the affected area and recommend medical screening to reach a conclusive diagnosis. These tests can include:

• X-rays
• MRI’s and CT scans
• Colonoscopies
• Tissue analysis
• Blood tests

The results of these tests compared with your lifestyle habits and family history can usually clearly indicate what you are suffering from.

Once you have received a diagnosis, your doctor may recommend one or more of these treatment options:

Dietary Changes.​ Poor diet is a significant risk factor for many known digestive diseases, and has even been shown to lead to some kinds of cancer. Improving your diet is the single most effective way to prevent and treat most digestive disease.

Medication. There​ are many medications on the market to treat the various ailments of the GI tract. Antibiotics and antacids are the most common, followed closely by laxatives and nausea medication. Supplements can also be useful in treating and preventing digestive diseases.

Surgery. In​ severe cases, surgery may be required to properly treat your condition. In the case of cancer, a biopsy may be required to remove the cancerous tissue on the affected organ. If there is any sort of blockage or injury to a part of the digestive tract, surgery may be a good option for fast relief.