Common GI Issues in Women

Common GI Issues in Women
Are you constantly feeling tired, nauseous or bloated? You may have gastrointestinal (GI) issues.
Does the following scenario sound familiar? Almost every day you feel uncomfortable due to bloating, cramping or an upset stomach. It happens so often that you don't think anything of it. However, you may want to listen to your gut... it could be telling you something is seriously wrong.

Might you have a digestive issue that you're not properly addressing?

Bloating is very common. Numerous things relating to a gastrointestinal problem can cause bloating, but it can also mean a gynecology issue such as endometriosis.

However, one of the main reasons you become bloated has to do with what you are eating. You may want to try eliminating certain foods to pinpoint your specific underlying cause.

Remember, your body is unique. What helps your body may harm someone else's, which is why it's a good idea to seek a professional consultation at some point.

If you're constantly stressed, you might be wreaking havoc on your gut. Keeping your mind healthy is essential for your body to function properly.

Occasional heartburn is common after eating certain foods. But, if every time you eat it causes heartburn, you could have acid reflux disease. Acid reflux damages your intestines as well as your esophagus. Left untreated, chronic inflammation within your esophagus can cause cancer.

Even though you think popping a few extra Tums will settle the issue, you still need to see a physician. Staying aware from trigger foods such as anything spicy, caffeine or acidic foods can help keep your heartburn in check.

What else could be contributing to your GI issues?

Assistant professor of medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Sumona Saha, MD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss common GI issues among women, as well as ways you can help treat these issues.

Common GI Issues:
  • Poor diet and nutrition
  • Stress
  • Heartburn
  • Upset stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Bloating
  • Constipation
  • Gas
  • Pain/cramping

Additional Info

  • Segment Number: 5
  • Audio File: staying_well/1417sw1e.mp3
  • Featured Speaker: Samona Saha, MD
  • Organization: UW Health
  • Guest Bio: Saha Sum MDSumona Saha, MD,is an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.

    She is board certified in internal medicine and a specialist in Gastroenterology. She is the first physician in the country to complete a training program in gastroenterology with a specific focus on women's health.

    She is a member of the American College of Physicians, American Gastroenterological Association and the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.

    Her clinical interests are in inflammatory bowel disease and GI disorders in pregnancy. Dr. Saha is also a scholar with the Center for Women's Health Research at the University of Wisconsin and is funded by the NIH to conduct interdisciplinary research on women with inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Length (mins): 10
  • Waiver Received: No
  • Host: Melanie Cole, MS
Published in Staying Well
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