Gastrointestinal diseases

Introduction

Gastrointestinal disease may mean many different things to those who suffer from it: anxiety due to the looming threat of public humiliation; sudden severe pain and the fear of death; constant pain that does not go away; depression, weakness or a lack of motivation.

Our digestive system is a highly intricate system of balanced processes that function in harmony. Malfunction of a single process may cause severe effects on our health and our lives.

Many of us who are not afflicted cannot grasp how devastating digestive diseases can be. This can be partially explained by the shame associated with bowel function, which makes it difficult or embarrasing for those experiencing digestive problems to talk about them.

Those suffering from chronic gastrointestinal disease often find that it dictates what they can and cannot do. They may have to organise their disease, be unable to eat out, excuse themselves at short notice from a social gathering without being able to explain why, or cause prolonged or repeated absence from work or school.

For those suffering from certain diseases, access to a toilet at short notice can make the difference between travelling somewhere and staying at home. A sign on the toilet door indicating that it is occupied may mean the humiliation of losing control in public.

This information has been provided to serve as a guide to different gastrointestinal diseases and has been reviewed by a gastroenterologist.

However this information is not intended to substitute for an in-depth evaluation by a physician and should not be used for self-diagnosis. If you feel that there is something wrong, consult a physician.