Common Digestive Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore, Experts Warn

Gallstones, hernias, acid reflux, and piles are some of the common digestive issues that are often discussed extensively. Even though these issues may present mild symptoms and seem harmless, they demand

timely medical attention to prevent any serious complications or life-threatening emergencies. However, there are some ‘not-so-common’ gastrointestinal conditions that may not present with any obvious symptoms, instead develop quietly, only to show up as serious, life-threatening cancers if ignored, and hence require immediate specialized care. “Timely consultation with a Surgical Gastroenterologist can ensure the best treatment and promising chance for recovery,” Dr Lohith P, Associate Consultant – Robotic Surgical Gastroenterology and GI Oncosurgery, Manipal Hospital, told Times Now.

Liver tumours

According to Dr Lohith, liver tumours - both benign and malignant, along with portal Hypertension, are two liver-related conditions that often go unnoticed at early stages. “It is not rare for these diseases to be detected incidentally during an ultrasound or CT scan,” he said. Also, many patients may complain of bloating or abdominal fullness, jaundice, and unintentional weight loss, along with other notable symptoms like frequent infections, anemia, ascites, and hepatic encephalopathy. Doctors say early detection of liver tumours can guarantee effective treatment and advanced surgical techniques like minimally invasive Robotic and Laparoscopic liver resections. “Likewise, Shunt surgeries offer relief in portal hypertension, reducing the risk of life-threatening bleeding,” said the doctor.

Pancreatic issues

Many pancreatic diseases, like acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic infections, trauma, and pancreatic cancers, are other potent gastrointestinal problems that often trouble patients late. Persistent or frequent upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back, loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness even with reduced intake, unexplained jaundice, unexplained weight loss, or even sudden onset diabetes in middle age are some of the commonly reported symptoms of early pancreatic cancer. Although pancreatic conditions are aggressive, they can be treated with advanced surgical options when detected early.

Colorectal cancers and intestinal diseases

According to Dr Lohith, colorectal cancers and intestinal diseases are most often underestimated. “Symptoms like blood in stools, a sudden change in bowel habits, persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained anemia, mostly in those above 40 years, should never be ignored,” he said. Early screening and timely surgical intervention not only save lives but also make treatment far less complicated. Currently available advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgeries and laparoscopic surgeries for colorectal cancer, allow patients to recover faster and with fewer complications.

What is the take-home message?

Doctors say it is notable that the majority of gastrointestinal problems present with similar early symptoms that can collectively be termed as red flags that should never be ignored or dismissed as something trivial. These include:

• Frequent or persistent abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Yellowing of the sclera or skin
• Vomiting blood
• Blood in stools
• Difficulty swallowing