Do you know what the term dysphagia means? Have you heard this word somewhere before? If you have never heard a single mention of it, being a true first-time sailor, without knowing anything about it, let us tell you what it means.

Dysphagia is simply a difficulty swallowing, swallowing or ingesting liquids or solid foods, that is, taking the food bolus from the throat to the stomach, which can happen to anyone, at any age and at any time of life.

But, what are the causes and effects that dysphagia causes in our body?

Let’s, then, get to know each one.

Difficulty swallowing: Know the main causes

Talking about main causes when we refer to some symptom, most of the time is a bit complex and even a bit strange; because, the human body is always a mystery and each organism behaves in a way.

But, what about dysphagia?

But, in the case of dysphagia, difficulty swallowing, we basically know that it is an alteration that can be caused by structural or functional lesions of the esophagus region. The esophagus is a tube that carries food to the stomach, both liquids and solids.

For better understanding we divide these causes into three levels: simple, important and serious.

Simple causes

At first, referring to causes “simple“, they may not be some disease that brings concerns, but, just for a habit that is a villain not only for the health of our throat, but of the teeth and mouth in general.

I’m talking about incorrect feeding, caused by:

• A quick and inadequate chewing;
• Attempt to swallow very large foods;
• Very hot foods;
• Try to swallow while talking or laughing; 
• One of the worst, trying to eat almost lying down.

Many think that this is a big nonsense, not influencing anything, but if this was not so serious and directly affected our health, would other health professionals, besides gastroenterologists and dentists, also pass the same guidelines?

Of course not!

These guidelines, always insisted by our parents since childhood, which accompany us throughout life, make a lot of difference.

That’s because such bad habits can provoke the evolution of symptoms, such as functional or motor dysphagia, which are muscular or neurological disorders of the organs that are part of the swallowing process, that is, diseases of the muscles of the esophagus and the nerves make the esophagus work, scientifically speaking.

Did you see, how a simple detail, like eating calmly and quietly can have a positive and preventive effect for us?

If you have not followed these steps, through the ear pulls of parents until today, do not stop following them from now on, ok?

Important causes

In this second moment, let’s now, know some causes “important“, that require a little more attention and that can also be associated with difficulty swallowing, such as:

• Achalasia: it is a rare disorder that makes it difficult for liquids to enter the stomach which, in addition to difficulty swallowing, which is a typical characteristic, also has the presence of undesirable heartburn;
• Choking: It is a momentary respiratory paralysis caused by a blockage in the trachea, counting on cyanosis and coughs; and 
• Gastroesophageal reflux: it is the return of stomach acid, to the initial part of the trachea, triggering an irritation of the mucosa, also counting on symptoms such as: bitter mouth and cough after meals.

Did you see how the lack of basic care can, in the medium and long term, trigger the evolution to even greater discomforts?

Stay tuned!

Serious causes

And thirdly, about the causes “serious“, some are originated by slightly more severe problems, which can even be permanent, as described below:

• Stroke (CVA);
• Huntington’s disease;
• Parkinson’s disease;
• Multiple sclerosis;
• Alzheimer’s disease; 
• Cerebral palsy;
• Esophageal cancer.

Even a small discomfort, can become something more serious, so, after learning a little about the causes of dysphagia, let’s see how to diagnose?

How is the diagnosis of dysphagia made?

Know that if the person is with some of the primary symptoms reported earlier, staying for days, you should seek the specialist as soon as possible; because he will certainly perform some exams, such as, for example:

• Swallowing test: which aims to identify irregularities in the musculature of the mouth or throat;
• Digestive endoscopy: for analysis of the organs that make up the digestive system such as mouth, esophagus and stomach;
• X-ray with contrast: for a more precise visualization of the anatomy of the esophagus and stomach; 
• Manometry: more specific test to check the functioning of the muscles of the esophagus.

With the correct diagnosis in hand, it is much easier to start the correct treatment in advance and inhibit greater complications. So, how about knowing the most indicated treatments?

What are the most indicated treatments for dysphagia?

Entering now in the field of treatments, obviously all therapy should meet the focus of the problem, which will depend directly on what caused the difficulty swallowing.

The most known treatments are:

• Exercises for muscle strengthening: being the known rehabilitation therapies of the muscles responsible for the swallowing process;
• Medications: medications that control acid production may be indicated to aid in symptom control;
• Surgery: in more serious cases, the most indicated path may be surgical intervention. 

These are the important treatments, however, preventing by taking some precautions is still useful, see…

Care for those who are having difficulty swallowing

Knowing a little more about difficulty swallowing or dysphagia, its causes and the most appropriate treatments, some tips to avoid these undesirable symptoms are more than welcome.

And you even know what they are, recapping…

• Eating, avoiding very large foods, is indispensable;
• Vegetables and harder foods should be well cooked;
• Vary meals opting for soft foods like creamy soups, for example;
• Avoid thin juices, as they cause choking more easily; 
• Finally, chew food well.

Did you see how easy it is, observe our routine and correct small actions? Just follow some of these guidelines.

Conclusion

If you liked to know a little more about the subject difficulty swallowing, dysphagia, and want to always be aware of relevant information for the health of the digestive system, stay tuned to Gastroblog.

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We help you with whatever you need, count on us.

Being in good health helps people not only to avoid the risks of developing various diseases, but also to increase their self-esteem, productivity and happiness.

Intestinal constipation or constipation is a problem responsible for causing great discomfort to several individuals, even hindering simple daily activities.

Knowing this, this post was developed so that you know everything about intestinal constipation or constipation, including its symptoms, how to detect them and what treatments are available.

Do you know what intestinal constipation or constipation is?

Intestinal constipation, better known as constipation, is an intestinal disorder caused by factors such as insufficient fiber in the body, low fluid intake, sedentary lifestyle, excess animal protein and poor bowel function.

This disease is characterized by difficulty in evacuating formed stools, resulting in several days or even weeks without the individual being able to evacuate.

Each person has a natural evacuation rhythm for their body, so some individuals can do this need up to three times a day while others do it three times a week, this is normal.

However, when this natural pattern is broken it results in an abnormal reduction of it, which is also accompanied by some symptoms such as intestinal pains, hardened stools, difficulty evacuating and even bleeding. This can light a warning signal.

The proper functioning of the intestine depends on some factors, such as water intake, ideal fiber consumption and physical activity.

High consumption of industrial origin foods can greatly harm your intestine and hinder fiber retention, as during the processing of these foods, fibers and proteins are often lost.

What symptoms are associated with constipation?

In addition to the deregulation of the number of times the individual can evacuate, constipation brings with it other symptoms that can vary from person to person.

Some symptoms are:

• Bloating and pain in the abdomen area;
• Feeling of unsuccessful evacuation;
• Excess gas;
• Digestive disorders;
• Irritability;
• Malaise.

What types of treatment are recommended for intestinal constipation? 

As intestinal constipation is based on poor bowel function, its treatments are directed to improve the quality and health of the digestive system in order to allow evacuations to be done normally.

Diet is the main cause of constipation. Therefore, regularly consuming fiber-rich foods is an excellent way to prevent this disorder.

Here are some fiber-rich foods:

• Vegetables: turnip, green corn, okra, tomato, radish, carrot, onion, beet, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, lettuce, watercress, pumpkin and potato;
• Legumes: peas, beans, soybeans, chickpeas and lentils;
• Fruits: apple, papaya, pineapple, avocado, passion fruit, watermelon, strawberry, pear, peach, cherry, guava and kiwi; 
• Whole flours, bran and grains: flaxseed, oats, rice, corn, wheat and barley;
• Whole grains.

In more severe cases, it is strongly recommended to seek help from a specialized professional to perform appropriate procedures to treat this condition.

It is worth noting that the use of laxative medicines should be done with strict control and certified guidance.

However, there are foods with laxative properties that you can consume to treat constipation. As an example, it is worth mentioning fruits like papaya and plum, in addition to bran, green juices and supplements that contain fibers.

What causes constipation and how can it be avoided?

Constipation is caused by a combination of factors such as: lack of physical exercise, a diet poor in terms of fiber, little intake of fluids (like water) and high consumption of industrialized foods.

Intestinal constipation may be related to other diseases of the rectum and colon, such as hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, diverticulosis and anal fissures. In addition, the use of certain medications and the occurrence of metabolic and neurological changes can be a precursor to this problem.

Other possible causes of constipation are stress, depression and anxiety which can also cause interference in the individual’s intestinal habits.

To avoid the appearance of intestinal constipation you should adopt some habits such as:

Have a balanced diet

Having a balanced and healthy diet brings several benefits to our life, promoting health and well-being, in addition to contributing to maintaining good bowel function.

Drink plenty of fluids

Our body needs fluids to stay alive. Water assists in digestive processes and helps in fiber retention.

It is recommended to drink at least two liters of water every day so that our body is in full conditions to perform its functions.

Try to reduce stress

Recurrent stress can cause great damage to health, including in the intestine which can have its functioning altered, causing problems such as constipation, gastritis and others.

It is essential to look for solutions that help reduce stress such as reading, meditation, changing the environment and practicing physical activities.

Practice physical exercises

Physical exercises are responsible for improving intestinal motility, reducing the chances of problems like constipation.

Do not take laxatives without medical supervision

Continuous use of laxatives, even more without medical supervision, can harm your health, resulting in problems like intestinal constipation.

Which health professional should you consult if you have frequent digestive problems? 

The diagnosis and referral of treatments for digestive problems should only be done by duly qualified doctors.

The coloproctologist is a professional specialized in diagnosing and treating not only intestinal constipation but also diseases of the large intestine, anus and colon.

He is qualified to perform exams such as endoanal ultrasonography, rectosigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy.

Conclusion

Intestinal constipation or constipation is a problem that has some causes such as the lack of adequate fiber consumption. 

In addition, constipation brings with it some symptoms that can be alleviated and prevented with the adoption of some habits in the person’s life.

Photo: Image by jcomp on Freepik

Gastritis is a condition that affects the inner lining of the stomach (mucosa), causing inflammation. It is a common change that can affect people of all ages and have various causes.

Continue reading and learn everything about this health problem, including its symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention.

What is gastritis?

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach mucosa, which can be acute or chronic. Acute gastritis is a temporary condition most commonly caused by factors such as bacterial infections, prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or excessive alcohol intake.

Chronic gastritis, on the other hand, is a long-term condition caused by various factors, mainly chronic infection by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, but also by autoimmune disease or bile reflux.

Acute or chronic gastritis can manifest in the mucosa as reddened and inflamed areas along the stomach, called enanthematous gastritis, or appear as sores in the mucosa, called erosions, in this case being the gastritis called erosive.

Finally, gastritis can also be classified by the location where they appear, called antral gastritis (affect the part closest to the stomach exit), body gastritis (affect the area closest to the stomach entrance) or pangastritis, when they affect the entire stomach.

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

There are several symptoms, which can be mild or severe, that indicate the presence of gastritis. They vary from person to person, including asymptomatic people.

The most common symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain or discomfort, which can be mild or strong, usually in the upper abdomen. This pain can be described as a burning sensation, pressure or tightness in the stomach or hunger, and may worsen after eating or during the night.

Other common symptoms of gastritis include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling of fullness (“full stomach”) after a small meal, indigestion, and heartburn.

These disease indicators can be triggered by spicy foods, alcohol, coffee, or other irritating foods.

In more severe cases, gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding. Symptoms of stomach ulcers may include severe abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea and vomiting with blood or dark stools.

It is important to note that these symptoms are also caused by other gastrointestinal conditions, such as acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or gastric cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a specialist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How can gastritis be diagnosed?

The diagnosis of gastritis usually involves a complete medical evaluation, including medical history and physical examination.

The doctor may perform additional tests, including upper digestive endoscopy, in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the mouth and descends to the stomach to examine the lining of this region, diagnosing gastritis or other changes, and also, doing the research for stomach infection by the bacterium H. Pylori.

Risk factors for gastritis

The main risk factors for gastritis include:

Infection by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori

The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is one of the main causes of gastritis. Infection with this bacterium is very common and can be transmitted mainly in childhood, from person to person, through contaminated food or water.

Prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are common drugs used to treat pain and inflammation. Prolonged use of these drugs can alter the stomach mucosa, causing gastritis.

Excessive consumption of alcohol and/or smoking

Excessive alcohol consumption, as well as smoking, can damage the stomach mucosa, leading to gastritis.

Emotional stress

Emotional changes and long periods of stress can affect the digestive system, increasing the risk of gastritis.

Autoimmune disease

Some autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, increase the risk of gastritis.

Bile reflux

Bile reflux occurs when bile acids return from the small intestine to the stomach, causing inflammation of the stomach mucosa.

Advanced age

As we age, the stomach mucosa becomes more susceptible to damage, increasing the risk of gastritis.

It is important to note that not all people who have these risk factors will develop gastritis.

However, if you have one or more of these risk factors and are experiencing symptoms of the disease, it is important to urgently consult a specialist doctor.

Treatment and prevention of gastritis

The treatment of gastritis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. If gastritis is caused by infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, treatment may involve the use of antibiotics, in addition to medications to reduce stomach acidity.

When it is caused by prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the doctor may prescribe alternative medications to control pain and inflammation.

In general, the treatment of gastritis may involve lifestyle changes, including:

• Avoiding foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy and acidic foods;
• Avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption;
• Avoiding high-fat foods;
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals;
• Taking medications to reduce stomach acidity, such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as per medical guidance;
• Having regular medical follow-up and seeking a professional if the described signs are present.

The prevention of gastritis involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being aware of risk factors, such as those listed in this post.

This includes avoiding excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and, if possible, not consuming alcohol and tobacco, in addition to managing stress, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, practicing physical activities, and drinking plenty of water. In short, these are care that everyone should take.

If you have had gastritis before, it may be helpful not to consume foods that have made you sick, in addition to regularly monitoring your symptoms to detect possible early recurrences. It is also important to have frequent exams to avoid other stomach problems.

Conclusion

Gastritis is a condition more common than you think. Because it affects the lining of the stomach, often people do not seek the doctor if the symptoms are mild, such as heartburn.

However, upon noticing any sign of the disease, such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling of fullness after a small meal, indigestion, and heartburn, seek the help of a professional. Only then will you have more quality of life and health.

Intestinal problems are common and are among the most unpleasant symptoms a person can face at some point. The causes are numerous and really should receive due care, especially when it comes to the digestive system that should have our special attention.

One of the symptoms, for example, totally linked to our daily habits is excessive flatulence, which as we can understand is the increase in gases that we eliminate as a result of the incomplete digestive process.

Excessive flatulence can affect quality of life and have embarrassing consequences. Learn more about the main causes and treatments to reduce the problem.

Excessive flatulence

Firstly, flatulence is the elimination of gases coming from the intestine through the rectum, as a result of the digestion process and also of the gases swallowed while we eat or speak, being one of the natural functions of the human body. However, the indication of some irregularity is exactly its high frequency.

According to data from a detailed survey conducted by an American gastroenterology magazine, it is normal for a person in good health to eliminate between 500 to 1400 ml of gas per day, that is, a number around a maximum of 20 eliminations.

We emphasize that certain variations of these data may occur, as it is necessary to consider each circumstance in which the person who is feeling the symptoms is located.

The excess is precisely found when these eliminations exceed this reference number, adding, still, discomfort such as colic and pains in the abdominal region, that well-known feeling of a full belly, originated by the concentration of gases.

The most important thing in these cases is to understand that, initially, this suggests some small irregularity caused by a deregulated diet, not a serious health problem, however, some care should be taken from then on.

Now, let’s delve a little deeper into the subject, seeing its causes and how we can treat this symptom.

Why does excessive flatulence occur?

Basically, common flatulence arises when foods, mainly carbohydrates, are not completely broken down in the passage through the stomach during metabolism, which is the digestion process.

In short, it is when digestion does not occur in its entirety, with the effective breakdown of consumed foods.

Excessive flatulence, as already mentioned, is the significant increase in these gases that, in addition to discomfort in the abdomen region, unfortunately causes certain embarrassment, especially if it occurs in a public environment.

Main causes of flatulence

The causes of excessive flatulence are specific and are directly linked to 3 factors: diet, sedentary lifestyle and gastrointestinal problems.

Notice how small details, within these 3 items, directly influence the onset of the symptom.

Foods

Even foods labeled as healthy can cause excessive flatulence. We list below some of the foods that most provoke this excess of gases.

See some of the foods that most provoke flatulence:

• fresh or dried fruits: plum, raisins, apple and pear;
• dairy products: milk and derivatives;
• vegetables: broccoli, onion, carrot, kale and cabbage;
• legumes: peas, beans, lentils;
• carbonated drinks: sparkling water, sodas and beers.

In everyday life, especially at meal times, most people have some natural habits that also provoke flatulence, such as:

• aerophagia: it is about swallowing air when eating, drinking, laughing and even while talking;
• ingesting huge amounts of food at once. (We heard from the elders: Eat slowly!);
• and the most famous of the mistakes we make when we eat, and that we don’t even realize, which is to chew food quickly and still with an open mouth.

If you are already a person who exercises regularly, being assiduous in the gym and consumes protein supplements, the famous whey protein, pay attention! Its consumption increases the production of gases.

A general tip, always recommended, is balance in food, after all, everything being consumed with awareness and in the right measure not only contributes, but improves our health over time.

Sedentary lifestyle

One of the great villains of 21st century health, sedentary lifestyle, is one of the provocateurs of excessive flatulence, because the lack of exercise makes the metabolism process slow, preventing the intestine from maintaining its normal flow, consequently, causing the accumulation of gases.

Therefore, even if you are not yet an adept of exercises, start changing your habits, initially including some outdoor walks and, later, progressing to other exercises such as cycling or even attending a gym.

Start a new phase in your life and start today to include the pleasure of sport in your routine.

Gastrointestinal diseases

The most common intestinal changes are: intestinal constipation, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s Disease), which diseases affect digestion and absorption, such as celiac disease and lactose intolerance, and irritable bowel syndrome.

These can be silent, and maintaining a routine of regular consultations, followed by exams when necessary, is more than enough for a healthy life and without the risk of excess gases.

Pay attention to other signs that arise along with the excess of gases, such as heartburn, bloating, bad breath, nausea, burning, hiccups and vomiting, as they may indicate other changes and need to be carefully evaluated.

How to prevent or treat the problem?

The basic rules, both to prevent and to treat, are the same, that is, it is about the usual companion: balance.

It may seem cliché, but at first the ideal is hydration, with the intake of approximately 2 liters of water per day.

Another indispensable item is to maintain a diet rich in grains, fibers, fresh fruits and vegetables. This includes avoiding the exaggeration of some of the foods listed in this article.

Such actions can help you create the habit of having moderation in food.

In addition, having meals calmly and chewing food well are other well-known guidelines, however, not executed. If they are actually followed, you will be surprised in a short time.

Conclusion

Did you notice how sometimes we make mistakes daily, even in the simplest actions, like eating?

The important thing is that you can change from now on, put in order what is disordered and return to enjoy full health.

All the actions we have learned so far, added to a daily routine of physical activities, will put you back on track and, in addition, provide a healthier and longer life.

Gastroblog

If you are new here and liked this content, stay with us as we will always bring information about diseases, symptoms and treatments, in a light and uncomplicated way.

Here your doubts will be answered and you will always find a novelty about prevention and the best treatments to assist in the maintenance of your gastrointestinal health.

We are here for you.

See you later.

Many doubts arise regarding the term duodenal ulcer, after all, little is said about the subject.

Understand the condition, its main symptoms, how the diagnosis and treatment are done, as well as tips to take care of yourself if you are feeling pain.

What is a duodenal ulcer?

A duodenal ulcer is nothing more than a sore that forms on the mucosa (inner lining) of the duodenum, which can be superficial or deep. In more severe cases, it can cause perforation of the organ.

The duodenum is located right after the stomach, at the beginning of the intestine, and an ulcer in this region is called a “duodenal ulcer”.

The condition tends to develop more in men between 40 and 50 years old.

Main symptoms

Among the symptoms of a duodenal ulcer, it is possible to mention:

• Constant pain in the abdomen, mainly with a burning sensation;
• Nausea and vomiting;
• Weight loss;
• Constant feeling of a full or bloated stomach.

There may be a worsening of the symptoms mentioned above after heavier meals, when the stomach needs to increase the synthesis of gastric acid. The same occurs when the patient goes a long time without eating, and the gastric acid ends up affecting the mucous membranes of the digestive system.

How does the sore develop?

In most cases, the natural protection of the duodenum decreases due to some factor, such as stress, excessive alcohol use, or as a result of the use of anti-inflammatory medications. As a consequence, the small sore originates from the direct contact of gastric acid with the mucosa of the organ.

But the main cause of duodenal ulcer is infection by Helicobacter Pylori, and treatment of this bacterium is mandatory in these cases.

How is the diagnosis and treatment?

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a duodenal ulcer is made through an upper digestive endoscopy, and there may be a need to perform a biopsy (removal of a small part of tissue for laboratory tests).

Treatment

The treatment, in turn, depends on the size and causes of the duodenal ulcer.

The protocol depends entirely on the doctor’s diagnosis, but usually combines medication to protect the gastric mucosa and antacid medication, aiding in the healing of the sore.

If the biopsy identifies the presence of the H. Pylori bacterium, it will be necessary to use antibiotic medication.

Regarding diet, it is essential to adopt a series of changes aimed at dietary re-education, including reducing the consumption of fatty foods, heavy meals, processed products, and carbonated drinks, which tend to intensify symptoms.

How can you take care of yourself?

If you have a duodenal ulcer, there are some important steps to follow to take care of yourself, such as:

• Resting well;
• Following the treatment prescribed by the doctor and continuing with the follow-up as long as necessary;
• Having a balanced diet, preferably with the guidance of a nutritionist;
• Avoiding alcoholic beverages, tobacco, citrus drinks, spicy foods, caffeine, and sodas;
• If possible, avoiding anti-inflammatory medications that irritate the stomach, such as diclofenac, aspirin, and naproxen;
• Exercising as recommended by the doctor;
• Seeking therapy to deal with emotions and stress.

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Gastroenteritis is an infection that affects the digestive system, mainly in the small intestine region. Usually, a crisis lasts from 2 to 5 days.

The condition can be triggered by the presence of bacteria, such as Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter, found in contaminated food.

Certain medications, parasites, or health conditions can also cause symptoms considered gastroenteritis.

However, most cases occur through viral infection. Rotavirus is the main triggering agent of gastroenteritis, but there are many others that can cause the condition.

Learn more about gastroenteritis and how it differs from gastritis:

Gastroenteritis and gastritis: main differences

Location

Gastritis is an inflammation that appears in the lining of the stomach, which can be acute or chronic.

Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract, which may include the stomach but usually manifests in the intestine.

Symptoms

The main symptom of gastroenteritis is diarrhea, which may be accompanied by vomiting, while gastritis causes pain and a burning sensation in the stomach, more specifically in the upper abdomen.

Severity

Gastroenteritis, when caused by amoebas or viral agents, has a much worse prognosis compared to gastritis, and can cause severe dehydration processes.

Symptoms of gastroenteritis

The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are:

• Diarrhea;
• Nausea;
• Loss of appetite;
• Vomiting;
• Chills;
• Tiredness;
• Stomach pains;
• Muscle pains.

How gastroenteritis is diagnosed

The diagnosis is usually clinical, and occasionally some laboratory or stool tests are necessary.

Possible treatments for gastroenteritis

The use of medications to stop diarrhea and antibiotics can only be prescribed by a doctor, otherwise, there is a risk of worsening the infection.

Furthermore, treatment for gastroenteritis involves a lot of rest, fluid intake, and light eating, mostly consisting of soups, broths, porridges, and other less solid preparations.

Regarding fluids, it is advisable to prefer clear ones, such as some teas, non-acidic juices, and water. When in doubt, water should be the priority during the patient’s recovery.

In case of dehydration, it is advisable to consume sports drinks to replace sodium, potassium, and lost minerals. It is necessary to check with the doctor the ideal amount of isotonic drink to be consumed per day.

Focus on diet

To recover from an episode of gastroenteritis, it is essential to avoid caffeine, such as black tea or coffee, as well as acidic juices, such as orange and lemon.

It is also advisable to avoid spicy, fatty foods, and sugar.

Dairy products in general should be avoided until the total disappearance of symptoms (three days after the diarrhea stops).

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Gastritis is caused by inflammation of the stomach’s inner lining. The main symptoms are intense pain, burning, and heartburn. However, vomiting and nausea can also occur.

Learn what causes gastritis, how it is diagnosed and treated, and how you can prevent and take care of yourself (if you are already having an acute crisis).

Causes of gastritis

There are several causes that can lead to stomach inflammation. Gastritis results from an injury to the mucosa or an infection, whose main motivations are:

• Excessive alcohol consumption;
• An infectious condition caused by the H. pylori bacteria;
• The recurrent use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, and ketoprofen, which are widely used in the treatment of pain and inflammation in other parts of the body.

How is the diagnosis and treatment carried out?

Diagnosis

Through a clinical examination and conversations with the patient, the doctor can make an early diagnosis of gastritis.

However, the definitive diagnosis occurs after performing an upper digestive endoscopy, in which a flexible tube (the endoscope) is inserted through the mouth, allowing the visualization of the gastric mucosa.

Treatment

A case of gastritis tends to improve as soon as the cause is suppressed, whether by discontinuing medications and alcoholic beverages or by combating the infection caused by the H. pylori bacteria.

Generally, the doctor advises the use of certain medications to promote gastric emptying and reduce acid production.

Prevention: the best form of combat

Preventing gastritis is the best way to not develop the disease. There are some important pieces of information that the patient should know about the subject:

• Chew your food very well, so that it reaches the stomach in the best possible way;
• Try to maintain meal times and eat calmly, without rushing;
• Prefer to have small meals throughout the day, avoiding long fasting periods;
• Do not smoke and avoid excessive alcohol consumption;
• Consume lean meats, vegetables, and fruits;
• Avoid coffees and drinks containing caffeine, as well as the unrestrained use of anti-inflammatories;
• Seek medical follow-up and consult a professional if you feel heartburn, a sensation of a full stomach, or poor digestion.

Recommendations on how to take care in case of a gastritis crisis

If you are already suffering from gastritis, there are some guidelines that the EndoBlog team has listed to help reduce pain and inflammation:

• Do not drink alcohol during the crisis;
• Avoid acidic and spicy foods;
• Eliminate the consumption of coffee or only drink decaffeinated while in a gastritis crisis;
• Prefer light foods, such as cooked vegetables, simple pastas, soups, and broths, until the symptoms decrease;
• Do not take medications like aspirin and diclofenac. In this case, paracetamol is a more recommended option if it is necessary to use some pain relief medication.

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Flatulence is the name given to the passage of gases from the intestine through the rectum.

It is important to note that all people pass gas and air throughout the day. An adult, for example, passes gas 8 to 20 times a day, often without even noticing the movement.

The act only becomes problematic when it occurs excessively frequently or causes pain.

Causes of excessive flatulence

As mentioned, people generally pass gas without noticing, and a case is only considered abnormal when it causes physical discomfort or occurs frequently enough to cause social embarrassment.

Excessive flatulence can have more than one cause and is most often related to very specific habits, such as:

• Eating foods that cause gas, such as cabbage, beans, dairy, eggs, broccoli, sweets, potatoes, and lentils;
• Taking protein supplements;
• Swallowing air while eating;
• Consuming large amounts of food at once;
• Chewing too quickly or with an open mouth, swallowing a lot of air;
• Being sedentary.

In addition, there are intestinal conditions, such as diarrhea, constipation, and malabsorption, that can also cause excessive flatulence.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms of excessive flatulence are: a sensation of frequent passage of gases out of the rectum and abdominal discomforts caused by the accumulation of these gases in the belly.

How is excessive flatulence diagnosed and treated?

Anyone who feels an abnormal frequency in the elimination of gases can seek a gastroenterologist to perform some clinical or blood tests and thus reach a diagnosis.

However, there is no reason to worry. Excessive flatulence does not indicate the presence of serious problems in the body nor does it require aggressive treatments. Initially, the doctor should identify the cause of the problem to then indicate what the patient needs to incorporate into their routine to avoid the accumulation of gases.

If excessive flatulence is being caused by diet, for example, it will be necessary to identify which foods are increasing gas production and avoid consuming them.

It is also advisable to perform tests, such as going periods without consuming gluten and lactose, to observe how the body behaves.

Recommendations and prevention

To prevent possible excessive flatulence crises, one should keep an eye on their diet. There are some habits that can be adopted to mitigate the problem. These include:

• Reducing the consumption of peas, lentils, beans, soy, and grains in general, as they tend to cause gases;
• Avoid talking too much during meals so that the amount of air ingested is not so high;
• Eating meals calmly, that is, chewing food well. Incorrect, hurried chewing without due attention hinders digestion, so the food stays longer than ideal in the intestine and causes gases;
• Consuming foods rich in fiber (oats, fruits, and vegetables) and drinking plenty of fluids to help intestinal transit;
• Being aware of the excessive consumption of foods that may be associated with the formation of gases in some people, such as flour, sweet potatoes, radishes, onions, eggplants, celery, and wheat germ.

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Fatty liver disease is a condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver. Understand the disease and learn about the treatment.

It is normal for the liver to accumulate some fat, however, if the amount is large, it means that the patient has a “fatty liver”.

As it usually does not show symptoms in the early stages, it is important to be vigilant and undergo routine checkup exams.

What causes fatty liver disease?

There are two classifications for fatty liver disease: alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The alcoholic is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, while the non-alcoholic can derive from:

• Sedentary lifestyle;
• Overweight;
• Surgeries;
• Diabetes;
• Pregnancy;
• Sudden weight loss;

Fatty liver disease can occur in children in the first years of life, in the presence of metabolic diseases. In the case of older children and adolescents, the causes are similar to those of adults.

Symptoms

It is important to emphasize that fatty liver disease usually does not cause symptoms or apparent problems. In exams, there may be elevations of liver enzymes, a condition called fatty liver hepatitis (steatohepatitis).

Moreover, the first symptoms only begin to appear when there is constant liver damage, causing a serious condition such as cirrhosis.

How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?

Especially in the case of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, the diagnosis is made by abdominal ultrasound examination.

When some alteration is identified, the doctor requests other exams, to measure the levels of liver enzymes and draw the final diagnosis.

What is the treatment for fatty liver disease?

Basically, the treatment for fatty liver disease involves changes in the patient’s routine, with a healthier diet, regular physical exercise, and reduced alcohol consumption.

In most cases, it is necessary to lose weight and control other possible diseases that may arise due to the excess fat in the liver.

Furthermore, there are no specific medications that treat fatty liver disease, but the doctor responsible for the case may recommend that the patient receive a hepatitis B vaccine just to mitigate the onset of another liver disease.

How to prevent?

There are some measures to be taken to prevent excess fat in the liver and/or assist in the treatment of fatty liver disease. The main ones involve:

• Engaging in regular physical activities;
• Reducing the intake of fat, especially of animal origin;
• Avoiding alcoholic beverages;
• Consuming carbohydrates more balanced, preferring whole grains;
• Including fiber-rich foods in the diet;
• Promoting the control of body weight, which should be done with the guidance of a nutritionist.

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Reflux esophagitis is a condition caused by the inflammatory process of the esophagus, the tube responsible for transporting food from the throat to the stomach.

This inflammatory process causes pain and/or burning, making the patient feel a kind of heat in the chest, commonly located on the inner part of the sternum.

If not treated properly, reflux esophagitis can cause significant changes in the cells of the inner wall of the esophagus, leading to a more serious condition called Barrett’s esophagus.

What are the main causes of reflux esophagitis?

Reflux esophagitis usually manifests as the sensation of stomach acid rising up the esophagus.

There is a muscle, called the sphincter, around the end of the esophagus. It opens to allow food to pass and remains closed to prevent the contents present in the stomach from returning to the esophagus.

This ring of muscle, when it cannot stay closed as long as necessary or opens and closes too frequently, ends up allowing stomach acid and part of the food to rise up the esophagus. This movement is popularly known as reflux.

As the esophagus is not prepared to receive stomach acid, it ends up suffering irritations and inflammation (esophagitis), causing pain and discomfort.

The main conditions that predispose this sphincter’s efficiency failure are:

• eating abundantly during meals or eating close to bedtime;
• lying down right after eating;
• excess weight;
• pregnancy;
• hiatal hernia, a condition in which part of the stomach “rises” through the diaphragm and enters the chest;
• the need for a nasogastric tube, where a tube passes through the nose and goes to the stomach to transport medications and other substances;
• frequent vomiting.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms of reflux esophagitis are:

• constant heartburn and burning, which can worsen after main meals;
• reflux of a bitter and salty liquid into the throat;
• a bitter taste in the mouth;
• sore throat;
• chest pain;
• hoarseness.

How is reflux esophagitis treated?

The first step is to diagnose reflux esophagitis. In this case, the responsible doctor takes into account the patient’s history, clinical evaluation, and test results.

The main tests to assess esophagitis are:

• upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, to visualize the mucosa of the esophagus, stomach, and part of the small intestine;
• pH monitoring, to measure the amount of stomach acid that rises up the esophagus over 24 hours and see the relationship with symptoms presented.

The treatment, in turn, intrinsically depends on what is observed during the diagnosis. In general, esophagitis is a curable disease, but it is essential that the patient follows all the doctor’s instructions.

It is necessary to resort to certain medications prescribed by the doctor, in addition to promoting lifestyle changes.

Clear your doubts about reflux esophagitis and other digestive system conditions

Reflux esophagitis is a disease that requires attention and specific treatment and often raises several questions for patients.

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