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Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders

Dr. Sulaiman Bin Yusof

MbChB (Sheffield) M.Med (Surg) FRCSEd (Gen Surg)
蘇萊曼·尤索夫博士
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Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Prevention FAQ
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Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
FAQ

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders affect the digestive system, including the oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

These conditions can cause discomfort, pain, altered digestion, and nutrient absorption issues. Some are short-term and resolve with treatment, while others require ongoing management. Symptoms vary depending on the specific condition, ranging from mild indigestion to chronic inflammation or severe complications that affect overall health and quality of life.

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorders

GI disorders can affect digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall well-being. Symptoms vary based on the specific condition and severity.

Abdominal pain and discomfort: May be dull, sharp, cramping, or burning, occurring in different parts of the abdomen. It may worsen with eating, bowel movements, or inflammation.

Diarrhoea or constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including frequent loose stools or difficulty passing stools, may be linked to infections, gut motility issues, or dietary factors.

Bloating and excess gas: A sensation of fullness and discomfort caused by trapped gas, slow digestion, or bacterial imbalances.

Heartburn and acid reflux: A burning sensation in the chest or throat due to stomach acid flowing into the oesophagus. Severe or chronic reflux may cause nausea, vomiting, or oesophageal damage.

Unexplained weight loss and fatigue: Significant weight loss without changes in diet may indicate malabsorption or chronic inflammation. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to fatigue and weakness.

Blood in stool: Bright red or dark, tarry stools may suggest bleeding in the digestive tract, ranging from minor conditions to more serious issues like ulcers or colorectal cancer.

Causes and Risk Factors

GI disorders can arise from a combination of diet, infections, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.

  • Infections

    Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause acute or chronic digestive issues. Helicobacter pylori infection, for example, is linked to ulcers and gastritis.

  • Autoimmune conditions

    Disorders such as coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cause the immune system to attack the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and digestive disturbances.

  • Stress and anxiety

    Psychological stress can affect gut motility, increase sensitivity to pain, and worsen conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

  • Medication use

    Long-term use of NSAIDs, antibiotics, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can contribute to ulcers, dysbiosis, or gastrointestinal irritation.

  • Diet, smoking, and alcohol

    Diets high in processed foods, unhealthy fats, or low in fibre can lead to digestive problems. Smoking weakens the lower oesophageal sphincter, increasing reflux risk, while excessive alcohol may irritate the digestive tract.

Diagnostic Methods

Endoscopy

A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth (gastroscopy) or rectum (colonoscopy) to examine the digestive tract. It helps detect ulcers, inflammation, growths, or bleeding. Tissue samples may be taken for further analysis.

Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI, Ultrasound)

These tests provide detailed images of the digestive organs, helping to identify structural abnormalities, blockages, tumours, or inflammation.

Blood tests

Laboratory tests can check for infections, inflammation markers, anaemia, liver function, and autoimmune indicators related to gastrointestinal diseases.

Stool tests

Analysing stool samples can detect infections, parasites, blood, or markers of inflammation, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as IBD and digestive infections.

Breath tests

Used to diagnose bacterial overgrowth, lactose intolerance, or Helicobacter pylori infections. Patients exhale into a device after consuming a specific substance to detect abnormal gas production.

Biopsy

Small tissue samples taken during an endoscopy or colonoscopy help diagnose conditions such as coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain cancers.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific GI disorder, its severity, and underlying causes. It may involve lifestyle modifications, medications, or surgical interventions when necessary.

Non-Surgical Treatment
Dietary changes

Adjusting fibre intake, avoiding trigger foods, and consuming balanced meals can help regulate digestion and reduce symptoms. Some conditions require specialised diets, such as gluten-free for coeliac disease or low-FODMAP for IBS.

Medications

Depending on the condition, treatments may include antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, laxatives, or antispasmodics to manage symptoms.

Probiotics and prebiotics

These support beneficial gut bacteria and can aid digestion, particularly in conditions involving gut microbiota imbalance.

Lifestyle modifications

Regular physical activity, stress management techniques, adequate hydration, and avoiding smoking and alcohol can improve digestive health.

Surgical Treatment
Endoscopic procedures

Minimally invasive treatments using an endoscope to remove polyps, widen narrowed sections of the digestive tract, or treat ulcers. These procedures help manage certain conditions without open surgery.

Bowel resection

Removal of a diseased or damaged section of the intestine, used for conditions such as severe inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, or obstruction. The remaining intestine is reconnected, or a stoma may be created if needed.

Gallbladder surgery (Cholecystectomy)

Removal of the gallbladder due to persistent gallstones or gallbladder disease causing pain, infection, or inflammation. It is often performed laparoscopically for a quicker recovery.

Anti-reflux surgery

Procedures such as fundoplication treat chronic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) by wrapping part of the stomach around the lower oesophagus to prevent acid reflux. This reduces symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation.

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Prevention and Management

Maintaining a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise can help reduce the risk of GI disorders. Managing stress, avoiding excessive alcohol, and quitting smoking may also support digestive health.

For those with chronic conditions, following prescribed treatments and attending regular medical check-ups can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

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Dr. Sulaiman Bin Yusof

MbChB (Sheffield)

M.Med (Surgery)

FRCSEd (General Surgery)

蘇萊曼·尤索夫博士

Dr. Sulaiman Yusof is a distinguished Senior Consultant in colorectal and general surgery, boasting over 15 years of expertise. His passion lies in minimally invasive techniques, particularly robotic surgery, where he has achieved remarkable success using the Da Vinci Xi system. Dr. Sulaiman is dedicated to delivering high-quality, personalized, and empathetic care, always striving for the best outcomes for his patients.

Education & Specialist Training
  • MbChB(Sheffield)
  • M.Med(Surgery)
  • FRCSEd(General Surgery)

Dr. Sulaiman’s journey began at the University of Sheffield, where he graduated in 2002. He honed his skills during his house officer and basic surgical training in the UK before returning to Singapore. There, he completed his Advanced Surgical Training at Changi General Hospital and earned the Joint Speciality Fellowship in General Surgery in 2013.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can diet alone treat gastrointestinal disorders?

    Dietary adjustments can help manage symptoms by reducing triggers and improving digestion, but they may not be sufficient for all conditions. Some disorders require medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions depending on severity and underlying causes.

    Are gastrointestinal disorders permanent?

    Some GI disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), require long-term management, while others, like infections or mild gastritis, may resolve with treatment. Chronic conditions may have periods of remission and flare-ups.

    Do gastrointestinal disorders increase the risk of other health problems?

    Certain GI disorders can lead to complications affecting overall health. For example, chronic acid reflux may cause oesophageal damage, inflammatory bowel disease can increase the risk of colorectal cancer, and chronic constipation may lead to haemorrhoids or anal fissures. Proper management helps reduce these risks.
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