Gut Check: 4 Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders That Are Most Common in Men

It is a known fact that the gastrointestinal system plays a crucial role in managing and marinating an individual’s overall health. The GI system starts from the mouth leading to the oesophagus and stretches from the stomach, and small and large intestines to the anus. It is responsible for various functions such as digesting food, absorbing nutrients into the bloodstream, and eliminating waste products of digestion. However, when there’s a disruption in this function, it can lead to digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, gas, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or diarrhoea. Gastrointestinal problems are a common concern faced by several men, which can range from minor discomfort to serious and even life-threatening conditions. It is essential to take prompt action to treat GI problems before the symptoms worsen. Here are some common gastrointestinal (GI) problems experienced by men:

4 Major Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders in Men

Gastroesophageal Acid Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a physical condition in which the acid from the stomach starts to flow backwards up into the oesophagus (food pipe). This could result in a burning sensation, or heartburn in your chest and up to the throat. Symptoms of GERD include heartburn usually after eating something, chest pain, bloating, gas, difficulty in swallowing, intolerance towards certain foods, and dry cough. Certain lifestyle factors and habits such as excessive drinking or smoking, binge eating especially during the night, going to sleep right after eating, and taking medications without consulting your doctors.

Colon Cancer: It is a type of cancer, where the abnormal growth of cells starts to begin in the part of the large intestine also known as the colon. According to the studies, men are at higher risk of getting colon cancer compared to women. Symptoms of colon cancer include blood in stools, change in bowel habits, loss of appetite and weight loss. Colon cancer can be detected with the help of cancer screening tests Various factors could contribute to the development of colon cancer such as inherited and acquired gene mutations, dietary choices, and also environmental factors. It is one of the cancers, which can be effectively treated if detected early. A colonoscopy is a type of test done to detect the growth of colon cancer and look for changes like swelling, inflamed tissue, polyps, or cancer.

Constipation: Many men experience constipation at least once in their lifetime. This condition involves difficulty in passing stool and can be caused by various factors such as insufficient fibre intake, dehydration, issues with intestinal function, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), neurological disorders, antidepressants, or lack of exercise. Typically, constipation can be alleviated through lifestyle modifications like eating fibre-rich foods, engaging in physical activity, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

Ulcerative Colitis: This is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the digestive tract. It affects the innermost lining of the individual’s large intestine, also known as the colon and the rectum. The immune system is responsible for fighting against various bacteria, or viruses and combating any underlying diseases. In ulcerative colitis, your immune system mistakenly attacks its healthy cells and tissues. The symptoms may include rectal pain and bleeding, weight loss, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

According to Dr. Meghraj Ingle Director and Senior Consultant Gastroenterology Gleneagles Hospitals Parel Mumbai, “Digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are a serious health concern that need immediate medical attention. Neglecting these symptoms can worsen the condition and adversely impact one’s quality of life. It is essential to do regular screening for early detection of conditions like colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, and GERD. These tests could provide valuable insight into your gut health. Lifestyle modifications like maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine can contribute to successfully managing gastrointestinal health.”