Gastroenterology Diseases and Digestive System Disorders

At PACE Hospitals, we diagnose and treat a wide range of gastroenterology and digestive disorders. To help patients find relevant conditions, our gastroenterology diseases are organized by organ system and specialty area.

Upper GI diseases and disorders

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid or bile irritates the food pipe lining. It is associated with symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophageal ulcers or narrowing of the esophagus.

Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition where the lining of the esophagus alters due to prolonged exposure to stomach acid. It is often a complication of GERD and can increase the risk of esophageal cancer. The cells in the lower part of the esophagus become more like those of the intestines, which is abnormal and can be a precursor to malignancy.

Esophagitis

Esophagitis is the inflammation of the esophagus, generally caused by infection, acid reflux, or irritation from certain medications. Individual generally complains of pain when swallowing, heartburn, and regurgitation of food or liquid. Persistent esophagitis can lead to complications such as narrowing of the esophagus or bleeding.

Achalasia Cardia

Achalasia cardia is an uncommon disorder where the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax, making it difficult for food and liquid to pass into the stomach. It can cause symptoms like difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food, and chest pain. The exact cause is unknown, but it involves a failure of nerve cells in the esophagus.

Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the tissues of the esophagus,which is linked to long-term irritation from acid reflux (GERD), smoking, or heavy alcohol consumption. There are two main types of esophageal cancer, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Early detection is crucial, and treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on the stage of the cancer.

Mallory-Weiss Tear

A Mallory–Weiss tear is a longitudinal mucosal laceration at the gastroesophageal junction, typically caused by 

a sudden rise in intra-abdominal pressure. It most commonly occurs following forceful or repeated vomiting, retching, or coughing, and is often associated with alcohol use, eating disorders, or severe nausea.

Esophageal Perforation

Esophageal perforation is a tear or hole in the esophageal wall, which can result from trauma, medical procedures like endoscopy, or as a complication of certain esophageal conditions. This is a medical emergency because it can lead to severe infection and sepsis. Symptoms include chest pain, difficulty swallowing, fever, and vomiting. Prompt treatment, often involving surgery, is essential to prevent life-threatening complications.

Diffuse Esophageal Spasm

Diffuse esophageal spasm is a condition where the esophagus experiences abnormal, irregular muscle contractions. These spasms can cause chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a sensation of food being stuck in the chest. The cause of diffuse esophageal spasm is not entirely understood but can be related to stress, acid reflux, or other esophageal conditions.

Esophageal Stricture

Esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophagus that can make swallowing difficult. It is usually caused by scarring from acid reflux, inflammation, or certain medical treatments like radiation. Patients often experience a sensation of food being stuck in the chest or throat, and they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods.

Esophageal Varices

These are swollen veins in the esophagus that are commonly caused by liver cirrhosis. These varices can rupture and produce serious bleeding, resulting in a medical emergency. Symptoms are vomiting blood, dark-coloured stool, and indications of shock. The primary risk factor for esophageal varices is liver disease, especially cirrhosis.

Esophageal Webs and Rings

Esophageal webs and rings are thin membranes or bands that protrude into the esophageal lumen, causing partial obstruction and swallowing difficulty. These remains asymptomatic but can lead to food impaction. Endoscopic removal or dilation usually relieves symptoms, and corrective measures are individualised based on the severity.

Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can be caused by infection, certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, or stress. The condition may lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. If left untreated, gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding. 

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Peptic ulcer disease refers to open sores or ulcers that develop on the inner lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. The primary causes are infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria or the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Symptoms include burning stomach pain, bloating, and indigestion. 

Helicobacter pylori Infection

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach lining, leading to gastritis and increasing the risk of developing peptic ulcers. In many cases, the infection is asymptomatic, but it can cause symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, and bloating. 

Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition in which the stomach empties its contents more slowly than normal, often due to damage to the vagus nerve, which controls stomach muscles. This delay in gastric emptying can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, feeling full quickly, bloating, and abdominal pain. Commonly causes by diabetes, certain medications, and surgery.

Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer, also called stomach cancer, develops when abnormal cells in the stomach grow uncontrollably. It is generally linked to long-term inflammation caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, and a family history of the disease. Early stages of gastric cancer may not present symptoms, but as the cancer progresses, symptoms like stomach pain, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, and nausea may occur. 

Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Gastric outlet obstruction is a blockage that prevents food and fluids from passing from the stomach into the small intestine. It is often caused by peptic ulcers, stomach cancer, or inflammation of the stomach lining. Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause of the obstruction, such as medications or surgery to remove blockages or ulcers.

Functional Dyspepsia

Functional dyspepsia, also known as indigestion, is a chronic disorder characterised by symptoms such as upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, nausea, and a feeling of fullness after eating. The exact cause is unknown, but it is not related to any obvious physical or structural abnormalities. Stress, diet, and gastrointestinal motility disturbances may contribute to the condition. 

Gastric Polyps

These are growths or lesions that form on the stomach lining. Most are benign (non-cancerous), but some types, such as adenomas, can increase the risk of stomach cancer. However, many polyps do not cause symptoms and are often discovered during an endoscopy. 

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) 

ZES is a rare condition caused by gastrinomas, tumors that secrete excessive gastrin, leading to overproduction of stomach acid. This results in severe peptic ulcers, GERD, and diarrhea. Symptoms include recurrent ulcers, heartburn, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Lower GI diseases and disorders

Celiac Disease 

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye) that can trigger an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage can impair nutrient absorption and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, and fatigue.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but most commonly impacts the small intestine and colon. The cause is unknown, but it involves an abnormal immune response. If left untreated, Crohn's disease can lead to complications such as strictures, fistulas, or abscesses. 

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic IBD that primarily affects the colon and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea with blood or mucus, fatigue, and weight loss. The exact cause is unknown, but it involves an abnormal immune response. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common functional GI disorder that causes a group of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. The exact cause is unclear, but stress, diet, and abnormal gut motility are believed to contribute. IBS is a chronic condition, but it does not cause lasting damage to the intestines. 

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the number of bacteria in the small intestine. This overgrowth can interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and malnutrition. SIBO is often associated with conditions such as diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, or after abdominal surgery. 

Intestinal Obstruction

Intestinal obstruction is a blockage that prevents the normal passage of food or fluids through the intestines. It can be caused by physical factors such as tumors, hernias, adhesions (scar tissue from previous surgeries), or diseases like Crohn's disease. Treatment depends on the cause but often involves surgery to remove the obstruction or treat the underlying issue. 

Malabsorption Syndrome

In this syndrome, the body is unable to absorb certain nutrients properly from food. This can lead to deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, and bloating. Common causes include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, pancreatic insufficiency, and lactose intolerance. 

Short Bowel Syndrome

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) occurs when a significant portion of the small intestine is surgically removed or is not functioning properly, leading to inadequate nutrient absorption. This condition is often a result of surgeries such as resection for Crohn's disease, trauma, or congenital abnormalities. 

Intestinal Ischemia

It is a condition where blood flow to the intestines is reduced, leading to tissue damage and potential tissue death. It can be caused by blockages in blood vessels, often due to blood clots, atherosclerosis, or volvulus. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may progress to shock if left untreated

Intussusception

Intussusception is a medical emergency in which one part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, causing an obstruction. This condition is most common in infants and young children but can also occur in adults. It leads to symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in the stool (sometimes resembling "currant jelly"), and a palpable mass in the abdomen. 

Meckel's Diverticulum

Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital pouch or sac that forms in the lower part of the small intestine. It can lead to complications such as bleeding, obstruction, or infection (diverticulitis). Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloody stools, or intestinal obstruction. If complications occur, surgery is often required to remove the diverticulum.

Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a condition where small, bulging pouches (called diverticula) form in the walls of the colon. It is commonly seen in older adults and is often associated with a low-fiber diet. In many cases, diverticulosis does not cause symptoms, but it can lead to complications if the pouches become infected or inflamed. 

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when one or more diverticula become inflamed or infected, causing symptoms like fever, severe abdominal pain (usually on the lower left side), nausea, and changes in bowel habits. It is a complication of diverticulosis. In mild cases, treatment may involve antibiotics and dietary changes, but severe cases may require hospitalization and, in some cases, surgery to remove the affected part of the colon.

Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are growths that form on the inner lining of the colon. While most polyps are benign, some can develop into colon cancer over time. Polyps are often asymptomatic, but larger ones may cause symptoms such as rectal bleeding, bowel habits changes, or abdominal discomfort. Regular screening is essential for early detection and removal of polyps to reduce the risk of cancer. 

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, often developing from precancerous polyps over time. It is one of the most common cancers worldwide and can cause symptoms like blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal discomfort, and changes in bowel habits. Factors which increases the risk include age, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, and lifestyle factors like diet and lack of physical activity. Early detection through screening significantly improves survival outcomes. 

Toxic Megacolon

Toxic megacolon is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by rapid widening (dilatation) of the colon, typically caused by inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. It can also result from infections or other causes of colitis. 

Chronic Constipation

Chronic diarrhea refers to the condition where an individual experiences frequent, loose, or watery stools for more than four weeks. It can be caused by a wide variety of factors, including infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, food intolerances, malabsorption syndromes, and certain medications. Symptoms can include dehydration, weight loss, and abdominal cramps. 

Chronic Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea is defined as frequent, loose, or watery stools that persist for more than four weeks. It can result from various conditions, including infections, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, malabsorption disorders, or medication side effects. Symptoms often include abdominal cramping, bloating, and dehydration. 

Fecal Incontinence

It is the inability to control bowel movements that leads to the accidental release of stool. It can result from nerve damage, muscle weakness, or conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, or cognitive disorders. Patients generally experience an urgent need to pass stool, an inability to control bowel movements, and unintentional leakage. 

Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse is a condition where the rectum protrudes out through the anus. The rectum loses its attachments and becomes weakened, protruding towards the anus. It is more likely to occur in females than in males, especially in older adults. Common symptoms include faecal incontinence, constipation, passing blood and mucus from the rectum, and feeling like a bulge from the anus. The common causes are multifactorial; it includes weakened pelvic floor muscles, anal sphincters, long-term constipation or diarrhoea, damage from giving birth, and cystic fibrosis.

Ischemic Colitis

This is a medical condition in which there is reduced blood flow to the colon, leading to inflammation and injury of the intestinal lining. The decreased blood supply prevents the colon from receiving enough oxygen and nutrients, which can damage the tissues. This condition commonly occurs in older adults and may be caused by factors such as low blood pressure, blood clots, dehydration, heart disease, or narrowing of the blood vessels supplying the colon.

Colonic Pseudo-Obstruction

Colonic pseudo-obstruction is a condition in which the colon becomes distended and stops moving stool properly, mimicking a blockage, but without a physical obstruction. It may be caused by metabolic imbalances, medications, or neurological conditions. 

Colon Cancer Syndromes

Colon cancer syndromes refer to inherited genetic conditions that increase the risk of developing colon cancer. The most well-known syndromes are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome. Individuals with these conditions often develop multiple colon polyps or have a family history of colon cancer. For these individuals, regular screening is essential for early detection, and preventive surgery may be recommended in some cases.

Angiodysplasia

This disorder is distinguished by aberrant, fragile blood vessels throughout the gastrointestinal tract, most notably in the colon. These dilated and thin-walled blood vessels are prone to rupture, resulting in intestinal hemorrhage. Angiodysplasia is more common in elderly persons and may be connected with heart disease, kidney disease, or blood vessel damage caused by ageing. 

Hepatobiliary (HPB) Diseases 

Hepatitis 

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver caused mainly by viral infections. The common viral types are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis D, and Hepatitis E. These viruses affect the liver and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Hepatitis A and E are usually spread through infected food or water and often cause acute infection. Hepatitis B, C, and D are primarily transmitted via infected blood, body fluids, or unsafe injections and may result in chronic liver disease if untreated.

Cirrhosis 

Cirrhosis is a chronic liver condition in which normal liver tissue is gradually replaced by scar tissue, resulting in the loss of liver function. Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic cirrhosis, chronic viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or autoimmune illnesses. As the disease progresses, the liver becomes hard and unable to perform its normal functions such as detoxification and protein production. Symptoms may include fatigue, swelling in the abdomen (ascites), jaundice, easy bruising, and confusion in severe cases.

Gilbert Syndrome

Gilbert syndrome is a common inherited condition characterised by mild, intermittent elevation of unconjugated bilirubin due to reduced activity of the liver enzyme responsible for bilirubin conjugation. It is caused by a genetic defect affecting bilirubin metabolism and is not associated with liver damage. Most individuals are asymptomatic, but some may develop mild jaundice, especially scleral icterus, along with fatigue or abdominal discomfort.

Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/NASH)

Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat build-up in liver cells. The most common type is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol. A more severe form is nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, where fat buildup causes inflammation and liver cell damage. This condition is often associated with obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. If untreated, it may progress to cirrhosis or liver failure.

Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

It is the most common type of primary liver cancer is Hepatocellular Carcinoma. It usually develops in people who already have chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis or long-standing hepatitis B or C infection. Common clinical features may include abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, poor appetite, and inflammation of the abdomen. Early identification is critical since treatment options are more effective in the early stages.

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is the inflammation of the gallbladder, a small organ that stores bile produced by the liver. It commonly occurs when a gallstone blocks the cystic duct, preventing bile from leaving the gallbladder. This blockage leads to swelling, infection, and severe pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. Symptoms are abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, and tenderness in the abdomen. 

Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)

Cholelithiasis refers to the formation of solid stones in the gallbladder made from cholesterol or bilirubin. These stones may vary in size and sometimes block the bile ducts, causing pain known as biliary colic. Many people with gallstones have no symptoms, but when symptoms occur they may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. In symptomatic cases, treatment may involve medications or surgical removal of the gallbladder.

Pancreatitis 

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin. Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and may cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis may develops over time and leads to permanent damage to the pancreas, causing digestive problems and diabetes. The most common causes are gallstones, heavy alcohol use, infections, or certain medications.

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a serious condition in which malignant cells develop in the tissues of the pancreas. It frequently develops silently in the early stages and may not present symptoms until the disease has advanced. Common symptoms include abdominal pain that spreads to the back, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Factors that increases the risk of developing it are smoking, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and family history. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for improving the outcomes.

Biliary Atresia

Biliary atresia is a rare but serious congenital disorder characterised by progressive inflammation and fibrosis leading to partial or complete obstruction of the bile ducts, resulting in impaired bile flow from the liver to the intestine. The causes of biliary atresia are unknown, but it is believed that these etiologic factors are both genetic and acquired. It presents in the neonatal period with persistent jaundice, clay-colored stools, and hepatomegaly. 

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC)

Primary biliary cholangitis (also known as primary biliary cirrhosis) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease in which the body's immune system gradually damages the small bile ducts located within the liver. This injury causes bile to accumulate in the liver, resulting in inflammation and progressive liver damage.Common symptoms include fatigue, itching of the skin, dry eyes, and jaundice. If untreated, it may progress to cirrhosis and liver failure.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis is a chronic disease characterised by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts inside and outside the liver. The scarring narrows the bile ducts and obstructs bile flow, causing liver damage over time. It is often associated with inflammatory bowel diseases. Symptoms may include fatigue, itching, jaundice, and abdominal pain, and the condition can eventually lead to cirrhosis or liver failure.

Liver Failure

Liver failure occurs when the liver loses its ability to perform important functions such as detoxifying the blood, producing proteins, and helping digestion. It can develop suddenly (acute liver failure) or gradually over time (chronic liver failure). Causes include viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, drug toxicity, or long-term liver diseases.

Wilson’s Disease

Wilson's Disease is a rare inherited disorder in which the body cannot properly eliminate excess copper. As a result, copper accumulates in organs such as the liver, brain, and eyes, causing damage. Symptoms are liver disease, neurological problems, behavioral changes, and characteristic copper deposits in the eyes called Kayser–Fleischer rings.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

This s is a chronic inflammatory liver disease in which the immune system unknowingly attacks liver cells. This leads to ongoing inflammation and can result in liver damage or cirrhosis if not treated. Symptoms may include fatigue, abdominal discomfort, joint pain, jaundice, and an enlarged liver. Treatment usually involves immunosuppressive medications to control the immune response.

Liver abscess 

A hepatic abscess is a pus-filled mass in the liver that can result from liver damage or an infection that has spread through the portal vein and into the abdominal cavity. Some of these abscesses are caused by parasites and fungi, but the majority are classified as pyogenic or amoebic. Entamoeba histolytica causes the vast majority of amoebic illnesses. Pyogenic abscesses are typically polymicrobial. However, E.coli, Klebsiella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and anaerobes are frequently found within them.

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA)

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), also called bile duct cancer, is an uncommon but aggressive malignancy that arises from the epithelial cells lining the bile ducts. These bile ducts play a vital role in transporting bile to the small intestine from the liver, aiding in digestion. .

Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension refers to increased blood pressure in the portal vein, which carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. It commonly occurs due to cirrhosis, where scarring blocks normal blood flow through the liver. This condition can lead to serious complications such as enlarged veins in the esophagus (varices), fluid accumulation in the abdomen, and spleen enlargement. Management focuses on reducing pressure and preventing complications.

Ascites

Ascites is a medical condition characterised by the accumulation of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity. It most commonly occurs as a complication of liver diseases such as cirrhosis, where increased pressure in the liver’s blood vessels and reduced protein production cause fluid to leak into the abdomen. Treatment may involve salt restriction, diuretics, drainage of fluid (paracentesis), and management of the underlying liver disease.

Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder Cancer is an uncommon but serious disease in which cancer cells develop in the tissues of the gallbladder. It often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, which makes early detection difficult. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include abdominal pain, jaundice, vomiting, and unexplained weight loss. 

Hepatic Encephalopathy

This is a neurological manifestation of severe liver disease. It happens when the injured liver is unable to adequately eliminate toxins from the blood, enabling harmful substances like ammonia to build and impair brain function. 

Additional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastropathy

Gastropathy refers to damage or irritation of the stomach lining without significant inflammation. It can be caused by factors such as long-term use of certain medications (like NSAIDs), alcohol consumption, stress, or bile reflux. Unlike gastritis, gastropathy mainly involves injury to the stomach lining rather than inflammation. 

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a digestive issue in which the body is unable to effectively digest lactose, a natural sugar found in milk and dairy foods. This happens due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase in the small intestine. When lactose is not digested, it leads to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, and nausea after consuming dairy products.

Food Allergies affecting GI

Food allergy occurs when the immune system unknowingly reacts to certain foods as harmful substances. Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, shellfish, and wheat. In the gastrointestinal (GI) system, food allergies can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and intestinal inflammation. In severe cases, food allergies may also lead to systemic reactions like anaphylaxis.

Gastrocolic Reflex

The gastrocolic reflex is a physiological response where the act of eating stimulates increased motility in the colon, leading to the urge to pass stool. It is most visible after large meals and is a normal part of digestion, though it can be more pronounced in some people, resulting in the need to have a bowel movement soon after eating. 

Consult our specialists for a free second opinion on digestive diseases.

At PACE Hospitals, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care, and that includes offering second medical opinions with super specialists for treatment or surgery. We recommend everyone to get an expert advance medical second opinion, before taking decision for your treatment or surgery.