The digestive system is responsible for breaking down the food we eat into nutrients that our body can absorb and use. However, sometimes things can go wrong, and we may develop a digestive system disorder. Here is a chart that outlines some of the most common digestive system disorders.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD occurs when the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus doesn't close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. Certain foods, such as spicy or acidic foods, can trigger GERD symptoms. Obesity and pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing GERD.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, either acutely or chronically. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis can lead to malabsorption and diabetes. Heavy alcohol use and gallstones are common causes of pancreatitis.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a group of disorders that cause chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. The two most common types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. The cause of IBD is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcer disease is a condition in which open sores develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. The most common cause of peptic ulcer disease is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the lining of the colon become inflamed or infected. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. A low-fiber diet is a common cause of diverticulitis.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and weight loss. A gluten-free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum. Symptoms include pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids can be caused by constipation, straining during bowel movements, and pregnancy.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix becomes inflamed and filled with pus. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. Appendicitis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine. Symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, and abdominal pain. Colon cancer is treatable if caught early, but it can be fatal if left untreated.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation and scarring.

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