Learn the Signs and Symptoms of an Unhealthy Gut

Concerning issues, such as abdominal pain, ongoing diarrhea, or unplanned weight loss, can be more than a mere annoyance. Please don't ignore the symptoms of poor gut health. Should you face symptoms that are uncommon, like a change in bowel habits or yearnings for certain foods, discuss it with a skilled gastroenterologist in Phoenix, AZ. By connecting with a physician at Arizona Digestive Health, you can detect problems in your digestive system and learn how to improve your general well-being.

What are common symptoms of an unhealthy gut?

It's common to experience the occasional upset stomach or experience periodic heartburn every now and then. Persistent trouble with digestive tract problems could indicate that something is impacting your gut health. If you experience any of these signs or symptoms on an ongoing basis, it may be a result of an unhealthy gut:

• Skin irritations/allergies: Inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, acne, and eczema, have been connected to GI health.
• Mood fluctuations: Depression and anxiety may stem from an unhealthy gut.
• Food cravings: Cravings for certain foods, like sugar, can be a symptom of an imbalance in GI bacteria or nutritional deficiency.
• Autoimmune issues: An imbalance in digestive bacteria can initiate problems with autoimmune diseases.
• Stomach discomfort: Persistent bloating, gas, or constipation might be an indication that your body is having difficulty breaking down food and eliminating waste.
• Unintended weight changes: A sudden, inexplicable drop or gain in weight can be a sign your body is fighting to store fat, absorb nutrients, or eliminate waste.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time can be due to a problem with nutritional absorption in the gut.
• Migraines: Bad headaches can indicate that something is going on in the gut, especially if nausea and vomiting also occur.
• Change in stool: If there has been a difference in the consistency or color of your stool, like if you experience diarrhea or pale stools, then it might be time to consult a physician.

Should you have any of the signs or symptoms listed above, or other concerning symptoms, such as frequent acid reflux or blood in your stool, please meet with one of our digestive health specialists in Phoenix, AZ to have your digestive health checked.

What diseases can cause poor gastrointestinal health?

The symptoms you experience may be indicative of a concerning GI tract condition. Some of the conditions that can present with the symptoms mentioned above are:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease trigger inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Celiac disease: The way in which the body's immune system responds to gluten damages the small bowel.
• Cancer: Gastrointestinal cancers, such as colorectal cancer and stomach cancer, can result in significant problems in the digestive system.

How can I improve my digestive health?

Although it is vital to adopt a healthy lifestyle, you should still visit a physician if you are noticing issues related to poor GI health. An Arizona Digestive Health specialist will be able to inform you if a more significant issue needs to be diagnosed or if lifestyle modifications might help you boost your digestive health. Some of the following factors could be recommended by your doctor:

• Get 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night
• Stay physically active
• Increase your fiber intake
• Quit using tobacco products
• Consume plenty of water
• Identify food intolerances
• Add probiotics to your diet

Find care for an unhealthy gut in Phoenix, AZ

If you suffer from symptoms of poor GI health, it may point to a more serious medical problem. Please don't disregard any signals your body is relaying through an upset stomach, yearnings for certain foods, and unintended weight changes. To detect and understand any GI disorders, you can consult a gastroenterologist in Phoenix, AZ. To find an expert gastroenterologist near you, call Arizona Digestive Health. When you partner with our team, you can have access to patient-centric care to help you manage and improve your GI wellness which, in turn, can help you enjoy a better quality of life.