Martin Health System | For your health | Winter 2018

Gut check 4 MARTIN HEALTH SYSTEM TURNING THAT tasty meal into fuel for your body is a complex job efficiently done every day by your digestive system. That system—made up of long, looping tubes; hollow organs, like the stomach; and solid organs, like the liver—usually goes about its job quietly and behind the scenes. You can help keep your digestive system working smoothly by drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet with lots of fiber and exercising. But when there’s a problem like heartburn, ulcers or diarrhea, the digestive system is hard to ignore. The fol- lowing are a few common digestive system disorders and some ideas about how to handle them. HEARTBURN AND GERD The digestive system is supposed to be a one-way street. Occasionally, though, something unexpectedly reverses itself and winds up where it doesn’t belong. With acid reflux, di- gestive acids escape from the stom- ach and cause a burning sensation behind the breastbone and in the back of the throat. This is heartburn, the main symptom of acid reflux. Usually it’s no cause for concern. But if acid reflux occurs more than twice a week for a few weeks, it may signal a more serious condition known as GERD—gastroesophageal reflux disease. Untreated, GERD can cause a narrowed or obstructed esophagus, as well as bleeding, and may set the stage for esophageal cancer. GERD may also contribute to asthma, chronic cough and scarring of the lungs. Your doctor may suggest these lifestyle changes: • Avoid problem foods and bever- ages, such as chocolate, coffee, peppermint and alcohol. • Don’t smoke. • Lose weight if you’re overweight. • Wait three hours after a meal or drinking liquids before lying down. • Take antacids or other over-the- counter medication. • Prop up the head of your bed about 6 to 8 inches. If these changes don’t help, your doctor may prescribe medication or suggest more tests. However, lifestyle changes are key since medi- cations themselves can't control the actual reflux episodes. In some cases, surgery may be an option. GET RELIEF. Don’t let a digestive problem impact your quality of life. Our Martin Health Physician Group gastroenterologists are here to help. Visit martinhealth.org/gastroenterology to find a physician near you. WHAT’S UPSETTING YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM?