Stomach and intestines: examination and treatment

anamnesis

All complaints can be narrowed down further by asking specific questions, also referred to in medicine as anamnesis. For example, pain can occur in the upper abdomen or below the navel; it can be cramping or constant or occur before or after eating. All these distinctions help the doctor find the correct diagnosis because different clinical pictures have different symptoms, i.e., patient complaints.

 

Inspection, palpation, percussion and auscultation

No one can miss a bloated stomach with gas, and palpation of a painful abdomen helps the doctor pinpoint the cause more precisely. When palpated, an entire intestine feels different than an empty one, and the patient’s resistance (immune tension) also allows conclusions about the disease.

Tapping on the stomach can make fluid between the intestinal loops audible. When you listen, the intestines make “music” with babbling, rumbling or not at all – which is not a good sign and can indicate an intestinal obstruction. If symptoms persist, there is often no choice but to conduct further examinations. In addition to blood and urine tests, invasive methods are sometimes necessary.

Blood tests/breath tests

Many gastrointestinal diseases affect the blood count and blood values. A blood test determines whether inflammation values ​​are elevated, or the red blood pigment (Hb value) is reduced (in the event of bleeding). A breath test can detect the gastric bacterium Helicobacter, an essential trigger for gastric mucosal inflammation and ulcers.

 

Gastroscopy and colonoscopy (gastroscopy and colonoscopy)

In gastroscopy (gastroscopy), a thin tube is pushed through the mouth and oesophagus into the stomach, and a small camera enables images of the inside of the stomach. The mucous membrane of the oesophagus and stomach is examined in detail, and samples (biopsies) are taken from suspicious-looking areas.

Stomach bleeding can be treated with this tube. Even liver or pancreas ultrasound examinations are possible using this gastric probe. The colonoscopy is performed via the mouth and oesophagus for the small intestine and via the anus for the large intestine. In addition to inspection and biopsy, removing polyps (intestinal protuberances) is also possible.

Ultrasound, X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Individual intestinal loops become visible on ultrasound, and fluid that is outside the intestine in the event of an illness can also be seen. For example, an X-ray taken while standing shows free air under the diaphragm if a stomach ulcer has ruptured. Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging technically breaks the body into many thin slices so that even the smallest changes or cancerous tumors can be seen.

Right nutrition

In addition to the things that common sense advises, such as easily digestible food or no food, lots of fluids and bed rest, home remedies such as teas, a hot water bottle and natural remedies generally help with bloating, flatulence and < a i=1>Constipation. Amazingly, hot spices can relieve pain from a sensitive stomach and did you know that sleeping on your left side can help you avoid heartburn  ?

For various illnesses, it is advisable to eat a diet tailored to the illness – for example with Lactose intolerance or celiac disease. Of course, there is a special procedure for each illness with nutritional instructions, medication or possibly other measures such as hospitalization, infusions or operations – you can find this for the respective illness.

 

Diet, exercise, cancer prevention

Nutrition, exercise and cancer prevention – these are the three most important cornerstones for a healthy gastrointestinal system.

• A diet rich in fiber with a high proportion of vegetables and fruit keeps digestion going and is recognized as protecting against cancer and diverticular diseases. Diet in particular is now seen as an important factor in the development of cancer.
• Sufficient exercise supports the intestines in their daily work, and the 20-point program is ideal for small exercises in between. This way, the intestinal activity gets going, and flatulence or constipation is avoided. In addition, movement and relaxation exercises for stress-related illnesses such as gastritis or irritable bowel syndrome are balm for the soul and stomach.
• Cancer prevention – a sensitive topic. Colorectal cancer is common. Unfortunately, it is usually detected too late and could often be treated early or even cured – if the free check-ups were attended! Unfortunately, only every sixth man and every second woman takes advantage of the early detection measures.