Digestive discomfort is something most of us experience now and again — a bit of bloating after a heavy meal or the odd bout of indigestion. But when these symptoms become a regular feature of your day, your gut may be trying to tell you something more serious is going on.
Digestive issues are among the most common complaints GPs see. From irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to acid reflux and food intolerances, understanding what’s going on in your gut can help you take control of your health and know when it’s time to seek medical advice.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common digestive problems, their symptoms, possible causes, and when it might be wise to speak to a GP.
Table of Contents
1. Bloating and Excess Wind
Bloating is the feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen, often accompanied by excess wind. While occasional bloating is usually harmless, persistent or painful bloating could signal something more.
Possible causes include:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Coeliac disease
- Food intolerances (e.g. lactose or gluten)
- Overeating or eating too quickly
- Gut bacteria imbalance
If you find yourself regularly bloated or uncomfortable after meals, it may be worth keeping a food diary to identify patterns. Persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.
2. Constipation and Diarrhoea
Everyone experiences a change in bowel habits from time to time, but ongoing constipation or diarrhoea can affect quality of life and might indicate an underlying problem.
Constipation may be caused by:
- Low fibre intake
- Dehydration
- Lack of exercise
- Stress or anxiety
- Certain medications
Diarrhoea might stem from:
- Infections
- Food intolerance
- IBS
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
If you have blood in your stools, unexplained weight loss, or symptoms lasting longer than a few days, it’s important to see a doctor online or in person for further investigation.
3. Indigestion and Heartburn
Indigestion (dyspepsia) is discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often accompanied by nausea, bloating, and a feeling of fullness. Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by acid reflux — when stomach acid travels back up into the oesophagus.
Common triggers include:
- Fatty or spicy foods
- Caffeine or alcohol
- Smoking
- Stress
- Eating too late at night
Frequent heartburn can lead to a condition known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), which may require treatment to avoid complications.
4. Stomach Cramps and Pain
Stomach pain can be difficult to pinpoint because there are so many potential causes — from food poisoning and trapped wind to infections or more serious gastrointestinal conditions.
Mild cramps after eating might simply be down to indigestion or gas. However, persistent or severe pain, especially if accompanied by vomiting, fever, or rectal bleeding, should always be checked out by a healthcare professional.
5. Food Intolerances and Sensitivities
More people are discovering that certain foods just don’t agree with them. Unlike food allergies, intolerances don’t involve the immune system, but they can still cause uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, nausea, and fatigue.
Common culprits include:
- Lactose (found in dairy)
- Gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye)
- FODMAPs (a group of fermentable carbohydrates)
An elimination diet supervised by a healthcare provider can help you identify and manage food sensitivities safely.
When Should You Speak to a GP?
While many digestive symptoms are mild and short-lived, others can signal more serious issues that need medical attention. You should consider speaking to a GP if you experience:
- Symptoms that last more than a couple of weeks
- Blood in your stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Ongoing fatigue or anaemia
- Severe or worsening pain
If you’re unsure or feel anxious about discussing symptoms face-to-face, you can book an online GP consultation and get expert advice from the comfort of your home.
How a GP Can Help?
A GP will take a full history of your symptoms and may carry out or arrange for further tests such as blood work, stool samples, or even referrals to specialists like a gastroenterologist. They can also recommend dietary changes, prescribe medications, or suggest over-the-counter remedies to help relieve your symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Your gut is often referred to as your “second brain” — and for good reason. It plays a crucial role in your physical and mental wellbeing. Paying attention to what your body is telling you, particularly when digestive issues become a regular occurrence, can help prevent bigger problems down the line.
If you’re experiencing persistent bloating, indigestion, or unusual changes in bowel habits, don’t ignore it. It might be time to see a doctor online and get the support you need.