change-in-taste

Change in taste

Symptoms

Change in taste

A transient alteration in taste is often attributed to viral infections such as colds and flu, or recent food intake. However, certain digestive health disorders may also be responsible for dysgeusia or a change in taste perception. If you frequently encounter such changes, it is recommended to consult one of our specialists for a thorough evaluation.

Further in this text, we provide insights into the symptoms and underlying causes of taste alteration, as well as effective treatment options.

Related Symptoms

  • - Swallowing Problems (Dysphagia)
  • - Acid reflux (heartburn) and indigestion
  • - Mouth sores and ulcers
  • - Hoarseness of voice

When to seek emergency care

In most cases, a change in taste does not require emergency treatment, but accompanying symptoms may indicate otherwise. For instance, if you encounter a sudden loss of taste coupled with difficulty breathing or swallowing, immediate medical attention may be necessary. It is also essential to seek emergency care if you experience a sudden change or loss of taste following a head injury.

Symptoms

Eating at least three times a day is essential to maintain good health. Therefore, it can be distressing when you lose your enjoyment of food due to altered taste. We have five primary tastes which are sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. However, digestive health conditions can cause an altered sense of taste.

You may notice that all the foods you eat have a similar taste or a particular tang to them. Some people experience a lack of taste or a complete loss of taste (ageusia). These symptoms may occur intermittently or persistently.

A change in taste may be a sign of an underlying condition. We advise speaking to one of our specialists for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

  • - Sour
  • - Foul
  • - Bitter
  • - Salty
  • - Metallic

An altered taste sensation may persist even after brushing your teeth, which can be an unpleasant experience. However, the type of taste experienced may vary depending on the underlying cause. For instance, acid reflux and indigestion can cause a bitter taste in the mouth, while a metallic taste may be a side effect of over-the-counter medications or vitamins, gastritis, or a temporary infection. Both can also be an indication of pregnancy.

Symptoms that could indicate digestive problems

A change in taste may be an isolated symptom, or it may manifest along with a range of other symptoms. In addition to altered taste, you may experience:

  • - Acid reflux (heartburn) and indigestion
  • - Swallowing Problems (Dysphagia)
  • - Coughing and throat clearing
  • - Chest pain and discomfort
  • - Mouth sores and ulcers
  • - Upper abdominal pain
  • - Hoarseness of voice
  • - Nausea and vomiting
  • - Constipation
  • - A dry mouth
  • - Bad breath
  • - Bloating

Causes of a change in taste

An altered sense of taste may be a result of certain lifestyle choices such as smoking or dental issues. It can also be a side effect of certain medications or oral supplements. Additionally, undergoing cancer treatment can lead to a change in taste.

Moreover, some digestive health conditions can cause persistent or frequent changes in taste. These conditions include:

  • - Gastritis
  • - Functional heartburn
  • - Nutrient deficiencies
  • - Functional dyspepsia
  • - Gastrointestinal infection
  • - Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
  • - Burning mouth syndrome (BMS)
  • - Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

GORD

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a prevalent cause of an enduring unpleasant taste in the mouth. It results in long-term acid reflux. Along with a persistent bad taste, GORD may also lead to bloating, halitosis, dysphagia, and chronic sore throat (oesophagitis). Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), also known as silent reflux, presents with the same symptoms as GORD but is often asymptomatic.

Burning mouth syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome, though uncommon, frequently results in a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. The primary symptom is a burning sensation that occurs on the lips, tongue, or other regions of the mouth. You may notice that your symptoms worsen as the day progresses, whereas symptoms of GORD tend to be strongest in the morning, after sleep.

 

Medications

Certain medications can impact your sense of taste and smell. These include:

  • - Diuretics
  • - Beta blockers
  • - Antihistamines
  • - Antidepressants
  • - Blood pressure medications
  • - Antibiotics, such as metronidazole
  • - Multivitamins containing minerals or metals, such as copper, iron, or zinc

Diagnosis

In your initial consultation, we will conduct a visual assessment and discuss your symptoms in depth. We will enquire about any associated symptoms, the severity and discomfort of your symptoms, and if this change in taste is more prominent at certain times of the day or after consuming certain foods. We will also ask for your medical history and possibly the medical history of your close family.

The specific diagnostic tests we recommend will depend on the information gathered during your initial consultation. An upper endoscopy, also known as gastroscopy, is a common diagnostic test that can be used to investigate various digestive problems, such as GORD, LPR, functional heartburn, functional dyspepsia, and gastritis.

If we suspect burning mouth syndrome, a blood test may be recommended to identify any nutritional deficiencies that could be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, a mouth swab may be performed to rule out a fungal infection, such as oral thrush, which could lead to secondary BMS.

Treatment

We customize our treatment plans to suit your specific symptoms and diagnosis. The recommended treatment will be based on the results of the diagnostic tests we perform. If you suspect that a dental problem is causing your symptoms, we advise you to consult a dentist.

The treatment options range from simple lifestyle modifications to prescription medications and in some cases, surgery. Surgical intervention may be considered if the symptoms, such as acid reflux, are severe and do not respond to medications.

Lifestyle changes

If you are currently taking medication for another medical condition, such as diabetes or depression, it is important to discuss the potential side effects with your doctor. If your symptoms of altered taste persist, it is not advisable to simply tolerate them. Instead, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a qualified doctor or gastroenterologist for further evaluation and potential treatment options.

  • - Quit smoking
  • - Drink plenty of fluids
  • - Chewing sugar-free gum
  • - Try eating more cold foods
  • - Avoiding acid reflux risk factors
  • - Limit spicy and extremely sweet foods
  • - Add flavour to foods with herbs, lemon, and sauces
  • - Regular dental care, e.g. flossing and tongue-scraping
  • - Replace metal cutlery and bottles with plastic or glass versions

Lifestyle changes

If we identify a deficiency in vitamins, we may suggest taking a vitamin supplement. We may also recommend consulting a dietician to discuss how to modify your diet. You may need to alter any supplements you are currently taking if we believe they are causing your symptoms.

If you frequently experience acid reflux, we may prescribe medications to reduce your reflux. These may include H2 blockers, such as famotidine, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole. We may also suggest lifestyle changes, such as limiting your consumption of coffee and alcohol and sleeping at an incline.

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bloating

Bloating

Symptoms

Bloating

This article  provides guidance on bloating symptoms, including how to identify its causes and how to begin addressing digestive issues. If you are experiencing bloating, we recommend consulting with one of our gastroenterologists to receive expert care and advice.

Related Symptoms

  • - Abdominal pain
  • - Acid reflux (heartburn) and indigestion
  • - Belching and burping
  • - Diarrhoea

What is bloating?

Abdominal bloating, medically known as abdominal distension, is a condition that causes swelling or a feeling of fullness in the belly. Common symptoms of bloating include discomfort such as abdominal pain, excessive wind, burping or flatulence, and the urgent need to have a bowel movement. This is a prevalent health issue that can be caused by several factors, such as a build-up of gas in the lower digestive tract or fluid retention. Our team of specialists can assist in identifying the underlying cause of your bloating symptoms. Please book an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists for further evaluation and treatment.

Symptoms

  • - Belching and burping
  • - Constipation
  • - Diarrhoea
  • - Fever
  • - Heartburn (acid reflux)
  • - Indigestion (dyspepsia)
  • - Nausea and vomiting

These symptoms may be caused by a gastrointestinal infection. We recommend reviewing any medications you are currently taking as certain drugs, such as ibuprofen, can result in stomach irritation and bloating as side effects.

Typically, gas and bloating are regarded as more of an annoyance than a cause for concern. Bloating symptoms are not always accompanied by abdominal pain, and there are typically no reasons for alarm.

Causes

  • - What or how you eat
  • - Your physical fitness
  • - Your age
  • - Hormone changes (especially during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy)
  • - Lifestyle factors such as stress, anxiety or depression.

Bloating symptoms often emerge after eating a big meal, especially if you’ve eaten nothing for a few hours. In some cases, though, bloating is a symptom of a chronic disease or condition.

Other common bloating symptom triggers include:

  • - Spicy foods
  • - Dairy products
  • - Gluten
  • - Foods that are high in carbohydrates, salt or fat
  • - Alcohol
  • - Caffeine
  • - Fizzy carbonated drinks

Maintain a food diary over several weeks to keep track of specific items that may trigger a sensitivity in your body. Eliminate these items from your diet one by one, making it easier to identify potential causes. Our specialists can assist in identifying the probable triggers in your diet.

Diagnosis

It is crucial to be mindful that there may be significant underlying factors that can impact your digestive system. These include:

  • - Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • - Coeliac disease
  • - Diabetes
  • - Inflammatory bowel disease/ Crohn’s disease
  • - Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
  • - Endometriosis
  • - Diverticular disease and diverticulitis
  • - Cancer
  • - Liver disease

If you encounter one or more of the subsequent symptoms, it is recommended that you consult with one of our specialists to receive an accurate diagnosis.

  • - Persistent pain and/or swelling
  • - Blood in your bowel movements (stools will appear very dark)
  • - Vaginal bleeding when you’re not having your period
  • - Frequent, severe vomiting
  • - A high fever
  • - Unexpected weight loss.

To rule out any serious conditions you may need tests and scans. These can involve:

  • - X-ray, sometimes involving a barium swallow test
  • - Abdominal scans such as a CT or MRI
  • - Blood tests and stool tests to check for infections, allergies such as lactose intolerance or diseases

Diagnostic procedures such as imaging or biopsy can be performed using a thin and flexible instrument known as an endoscope. A gastroscopy is used when the instrument is passed through the mouth, while a colonoscopy is used when it is passed through the rectum. Our specialists may recommend these procedures to diagnose the cause of your digestive symptoms.

 

Treatments

Determining the underlying cause of bloating symptoms can be a challenging task. If you are experiencing persistent bloating, begin by assessing your diet. Consider if you are drinking sufficient water, eating too quickly, or chewing gum, which can cause you to swallow air.

We suggest consuming smaller portions of food and eating slowly. Avoid consuming unhealthy food and restrict the intake of gas-producing ingredients, such as beans and cabbage.

Following a diagnostic test, our specialists can recommend the most appropriate treatment for any specific conditions detected.

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stomach-pain

Stomach pain

Symptoms

Stomach pain

Abdominal pain or stomach ache is a prevalent symptom of various medical conditions. If the pain persists or you experience any other changes in digestion, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

Our team of gastroenterologists, who specialise in stomach-related problems, offer reliable medical guidance and expert private care. You can schedule an appointment with us to receive a diagnosis, treatment or advice on your condition.

Related Symptoms

  • - Acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion
  • - Bloating
  • - Constipation
  • - Vomiting
  • - Diarrhoea

Causes of stomach pain

Below are some common causes of stomach aches and the related symptoms each cause may lead to:

  • Trapped wind: Trapped wind can cause a stomach ache characterised by feeling bloated and passing wind often.
  • Indigestion: Indigestion can cause a bloated feeling. You might feel full or sick after eating and have heartburn or acid reflux.
  • Constipation: If you haven’t had a recent bowel movement, this might be a sign of constipation which can lead to stomach pain.
  • Food poisoning: If you experience a stomach ache with diarrhoea, vomiting and watery stool, you may have food poisoning.
  • Other possible causes of stomach pain include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or a urinary tract infection.

If you are experiencing stomach pain that persists or you notice any other changes to your digestion, seek medical advice from one of our gastroenterologists. They offer trusted medical advice and expert private care, and can provide a diagnosis or treatment. Book an appointment today to get started.

When to see a doctor

Most stomach aches resolve on their own, but sometimes it is necessary to consult a doctor to discuss your symptoms.

You should see a doctor if:

  • Your stomach pain rapidly worsens
  • Pain or bloating recurs or persists
  • You have difficulty swallowing food
  • You experience unexplained weight loss
  • You are urinating more than usual or experiencing painful urination
  • You notice blood in your stool
  • You frequently experience diarrhoea

If you are concerned about your stomach pain, please schedule an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists. You may require a colonoscopy or gastroscopy to diagnose your symptoms.

In rare cases, bowel cancer may be the cause of stomach pain. If we suspect this to be the case, we will recommend bowel cancer screening.

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nausea-and-vomiting-scaled

Nausea and vomiting

Symptoms

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation of unease and discomfort in the stomach, which is often accompanied by vomiting, the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.

Although most people experience these symptoms at some point in their lives, they are typically short-lived and not a cause for concern. However, if you experience frequent or persistent nausea and vomiting, dehydration, or other accompanying symptoms, we recommend seeking advice from one of our specialists.

Related Symptoms

  • - Abdominal pains
  • - Constipation
  • - Diarrhoea
  • - Bloating

Causes

Nausea and vomiting are relatively common and there are many causes, including as a symptom of certain conditions :

  • - Early stages of pregnancy
  • - Food poisoning
  • - Infection
  • - Adverse reaction to medication
  • - Motion sickness
  • - Intense pain
  • - Emotional stress
  • - Gallbladder disease
  • - Reaction to certain odours
  • - Reaction to certain odours
  • - Ulcers
  • - Gastroparesis or slow stomach emptying due to diabetes
  • - Ingestion of toxins or excessive amounts of alcohol
  • - Functional nausea and vomiting related to increased sensitivity in the stomach
  • - Cyclical vomiting syndrome

Vomiting can also be a sign of a more serious illness, such as:

  • - Concussion
  • - Appendicitis
  • - Meningitis
  • - Intestinal blockage
  • - Brain tumour

Treatment

At-home remedies include :

  • - Drinking gradually larger amounts of clear liquids
  • - Avoiding solid food until the vomiting episode has passed
  • - Taking an oral rehydration solution if there’s a risk of dehydration

If the above mentioned remedies are not effective in treating your nausea and vomiting, we suggest seeking advice from one of our specialists.

For some pregnant women experiencing morning sickness, eating crackers before getting out of bed or a high protein snack before going to bed may alleviate their symptoms.

In cases of nausea and vomiting associated with cancer treatment, alternative drugs may be used for treatment. Additionally, prescription and non-prescription drugs are available to control vomiting associated with motion sickness and certain types of dizziness.

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Hoarseness of voice

Symptoms

Hoarseness of voice

Hoarseness and a persistent sore throat are common symptoms that could indicate an underlying condition, such as acid reflux, allergies, tonsillitis, or upper respiratory infections. Other factors can also affect the larynx (voice box). If you experience persistent symptoms, particularly accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing, seeking medical advice from one of our specialists is recommended.

Related Symptoms

  • - Acid reflux (heartburn) and indigestion
  • - Cough and throat clearing
  • - Swallowing Problems

Hoarseness of voice symptoms

nfrequent hoarseness or a sore throat is typically not a cause for concern. However, if these symptoms persist for more than three weeks, we recommend seeking advice from one of our specialists. Your condition may be referred to as dysphonia.

Symptoms of a hoarse voice can include:

  • - Raspy, croaky or strained voice
  • - Softer volume or complete loss of voice
  • - Lower pitched voice
  • - Dry, sore throat
  • - Persistent cough
  • - Frequent need to clear your throat
  • - Mucus in the throat

The presence of hoarseness and soreness in the throat can indicate a range of both benign and more serious underlying issues. We invite you to continue reading to explore some of the common causes of dysphonia.

What causes hoarseness of voice?

A hoarse voice can be caused by simple factors, such as:

  • - Overuse or misuse e.g. shouting, prolonged singing or speaking
  • - Smoking, alcohol or caffeine
  • - Exposure to chemicals or dust
  • - Excessive coughing
  • - Cold or sinus infection
  • - Allergies

However, at times, a hoarse voice may be indicative of an underlying condition or disease, which could include

  • - Laryngitis
  • - Acid reflux
  • - Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
  • - Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GORD)
  • - Growths on the vocal cords, such as a nodule, polyp, or cyst
  • - Nerve or muscle condition
  • - Respiratory infection
  • - Laryngeal cancer
  • - Oesophageal cancer

Some of these are more common than others, so it’s important to speak with a specialist to get a thorough examination and diagnosis.

Diagnosis

The diagnostic approach to hoarseness of voice is tailored to the individual’s symptoms and presentation.

During the consultation, our specialists will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which includes a thorough examination of the throat, both externally and internally, to identify any abnormalities. We will also inquire about the duration of the symptoms and the presence of any other related symptoms. Keeping a symptom tracker may be helpful if the symptoms are recurring over a prolonged period.

Additionally, a blood test may be conducted to assess overall health and identify signs of any infection. If acid reflux is suspected, we may perform an endoscopy with wireless 96-hour pH capsule to diagnose or exclude reflux conditions, such as LPR or GORD. In some cases, a biopsy to identify abnormal cells may also be taken.

Scans, such as CT or MRI, may also be recommended depending on the severity of the symptoms and initial findings.

Lastly, we may refer you to an ENT specialist for a more comprehensive examination of the throat and voice box (larynx).

Treatment

After identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms, we will devise a treatment plan accordingly. If your symptoms are due to overuse or misuse of your voice, we may suggest trying at-home remedies as an initial step.

At-home remedies include :

  • - Resting your voice for a few days – no or minimal speaking
  • - Painkillers or lozenges, if you have a sore, painful throat
  • - Drinking plenty of water and other soothing fluids
  • - Avoid fizzy drinks, caffeine and alcohol
  • - Quitting smoking
  • - Avoiding spicy, fatty foods
  • - Take a hot shower – the steam can provide much-needed moisture
  • - Take an antacid if you know you are prone to acid reflux

If the at-home remedies fail to alleviate your symptoms, we advise booking a consultation with one of our specialists.

For those who experience regular acid reflux, we recommend speaking to one of our specialists to determine the root cause of your problem. This can help us identify a more effective treatment approach than your current one.

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Cough and throat clearing

Symptoms

Cough and throat clearing

Whilst occasional coughing or throat clearing is natural, persistent and excessive coughing may warrant further examination. If you are experiencing frequent coughing, soreness in the throat, or hoarseness without displaying symptoms commonly associated with the common cold or influenza, it is plausible that stomach acid may be irritating your vocal cords, airways, or throat. It is recommended to seek professional evaluation from one of our specialists.

Please continue reading to comprehend the various origins of persistent coughing and throat clearing.

Related Symptoms

  • - Acid reflux (heartburn) and indigestion
  • - Hoarseness of voice
  • - Swallowing Problems

Causes of chronic cough and throat clearing

Persistent coughing and throat clearing may arise from complications in your digestive tract. Nonetheless, other conditions such as asthma could also instigate your symptoms. Please peruse the ensuing list to discern the potential causes correlated with your digestive system.

Acid Reflux

Rising stomach acid causes acid reflux. You may feel sharp discomfort in your chest or throat, or you may have ‘silent’ reflux (LPR) – which causes no chest symptoms.

  • - Bad breath
  • - Bitter taste in your mouth
  • - Bloating
  • - Nausea

Barrett’s Oesophagus

Compromised oesophageal lining can culminate in Barrett’s oesophagus, generally resulting from acid reflux.

Acid reflux is a principal symptom of Barrett’s oesophagus and may provoke inflammation in the throat, eventually leading to persistent coughing and throat clearing.

Signs of Barrett’s encompass the following :

  • - Recurrent Heartburn
  • - Dysphagia
  • - Regurgitation

GORD/ GERD

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) ensues from regular acid reflux, which is attributed to a weakened or relaxed sphincter. Individuals with increased vulnerability to GORD include those who are pregnant, overweight, or possess a hiatus hernia.

GORD exhibits similar indications to acid reflux, albeit with greater severity. Symptoms may include distension, eructation, halitosis, and oesophagitis. Heartburn, which is typically experienced more frequently than with acid reflux, is a prevalent manifestation amongst individuals diagnosed with GORD, often transpiring several times a week.

EoE

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE), also referred to as oesophageal asthma, is an infrequent ailment causing chronic inflammation in the lining of the oesophagus, with the possibility of developing oesophageal strictures.

EoE could provoke symptoms like dysphagia, thoracic discomfort, and a sensation of food impeding your chest or progressing sluggishly down your oesophagus.

Swallowing Problems

Dysphagia, characterised by difficulties in swallowing, could cause irritation in your oesophagus, leading to persistent coughing or throat clearing. One possible cause of dysphagia is achalasia.

Dysphagia indications include regurgitation, mastication complications, and salivation.

Functional Cough and Throat Clearing

It is a condition that involves heightened sensitivity of the neural receptors in the throat, leading to an incessant urge to clear the throat. Though harmless, an accurate diagnosis and treatment could be acquired by consulting with an expert in the field.

Other causes include:

  • - Nasal allergies
  • - Anxiety disorder
  • - Tourette’s syndrome
  • - Medication side effect
  • - Lung conditions, such as asthma, COPD, and bronchiectasis

Diagnosis

Upon initial consultation, we will meticulously inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing, their frequency, and the presence of any known triggers to establish the cause of your chronic cough and throat clearing. Subsequently, we will carry out several tests, the selection of which will depend on the underlying condition we suspect.

Some of the tests we may conduct are as follows:

  • - Barium swallow: allows us to view your upper gastrointestinal tract
  • - Laryngoscopy: to visually inspect your throat and larynx (voice box)
  • - Bravo capsule pH test: measures the acidity of fluid rising in your oesophagus
  • - Bravo capsule pH test: measures the acidity of fluid rising in your oesophagus
  • - 24-hour pH impedance test: measure the amount of fluid, as well as acidity in the oesophagus
  • - High-resolution oesophageal manometry: to see whether all the muscles and valves of the oesophagus are working properly

To obtain a clearer view of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract and identify the cause of your symptoms, we may recommend an endoscopy.

If we suspect that your symptoms may be caused by a nasal allergy, we might advise you to undergo allergy testing.

Following the diagnosis of the underlying cause of your symptoms, we will suggest appropriate treatment options.

Treatment

The recommended treatment for your cough and throat clearing will vary depending on the underlying cause. If a digestive issue is not suspected, we may refer you to another specialist such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) or respiratory doctor to rule out any potential lung conditions.

Home remedies for a cough and throat clearing include:

  • - Changes to your diet, such as following a Mediterranean diet
  • - Avoiding cow milk
  • - Elevating the head of your bed by 30 degrees or more
  • - Honey tea, or similar
  • - Drinking plenty of water
  • - Antihistamines to counter a potential allergic reaction
  • - Stress relief methods
  • - Sugar-free cough drops
  • - Cutting down on, or quitting, smoking and drinking alcohol

If the simple at-home remedies fail to alleviate your symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment with one of our specialists. Based on the severity of your condition, we may prescribe medications or recommend non-surgical or surgical procedures, such as Stretta therapy or endoscopic dilatation. Our recommendations will depend on the underlying cause of your symptoms.

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Chest-Pain

Chest pain and discomfort

Symptoms

Chest pain and discomfort

Chest pain and discomfort can frequently be attributed to digestive issues, rather than cardiac problems. Non-cardiac chest pain is the medical term for chest pain that does not originate from the heart. Conditions such as acid reflux can generate a sharp, agonizing sensation in the chest. If you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest tightness, it is important to seek emergency medical assistance.

Our gastroenterologist possesses the expertise necessary to identify whether your chest pain or discomfort is due to digestive issues.

Related Symptoms

  • - Abdominal pain
  • - Acid reflux (heartburn) and indigestion
  • - Belching and Burping
  • - Hoarseness of voice
  • - Swallowing Problems

Is your chest pain an emergency?

Seek immediate medical advice for the following symptoms:

  • - Tightness in the chest
  • - Shortness of breath
  • - Pain that spreads and doesn’t go away after a few minutes

These are signs of a heart attack and require immediate assistance. If you experience these symptoms, call 999 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Chest pain symptoms caused by digestive problems

While it isn’t always clear what is causing your chest pain and discomfort, some key signs would indicate your pain is due to a digestive problem rather than a heart problem. 

Signs include:

  • - Chest pain after eating
  • - Pain in your chest while you eat
  • - Accompanied with digestive symptoms

If you experience the following digestive symptoms alongside your chest pain, it suggests your pain is due to a digestive problem. Though, you should discuss your symptoms with a doctor to rule out other causes of your chest pain first.

Symptoms that could indicate digestive problems include :

  • - Hiccups
  • - Abdominal pain
  • - Constipation
  • - Nausea and vomiting
  • - Belching and burping
  • - Hoarseness of voice
  • - Swallowing problems
  • - Acid reflux (a burning sensation in your chest)
  • - Blood in your stools, stools may be dark or black

Causes of non-cardiac chest pain and discomfort :

Acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion

Acid reflux often causes a burning sensation in your chest, known as heartburn. You may also experience an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Individuals with indigestion (dyspepsia) will often feel uncomfortably full after eating and may feel sick (nausea) and bloated.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) refers to excessive acid reflux. Acid and bile flow up from the stomach via the food pipe (oesophagus) due to a relaxed or weak sphincter. Left untreated, this can lead to Barrett’s oesophagus, which has similar symptoms to acid reflux. GORD is the most common reason for non-cardiac chest pain.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

IBS usually causes abdominal pain, though it may also cause pain in your chest, back, and jaw. For people with IBS, trapped gas often causes chest pain.

Functional dyspepsia

Functional dyspepsia is a medical condition characterized by persistent symptoms of indigestion without a clear underlying cause. Symptoms of functional dyspepsia may include a burning sensation in the lower chest, bloating, nausea, and belching.

 

Swallowing disorders

Swallowing disorders are medical conditions that affect the food pipe or oesophagus, resulting in difficulty swallowing. Pain along the oesophagus, which can be felt in the chest and other areas, may also be experienced. Such conditions may include achalasia or oesophageal spasm.

 

Additional digestive conditions that can cause non-cardiac chest pain

Below we list other conditions that cause chest pain and discomfort and where you are likely to feel that pain.

  • - Acute cholecystitis (Gallbladder inflammation) – upper chest pain on the right side
  • - Other gallbladder problems – possibly lower or upper chest pain on the right side
  • - Oesophageal hypersensitivity – higher chest pain coming from the throat area
  • - Oesophageal rupture – sudden, severe chest pain*
  • - Large hiatal hernia – lower chest pain
  • - Peptic ulcers – recurring discomfort
  • - Pancreatitis – lower chest pain

When to speak to a gastroenterologist :

After a cardiac condition has been excluded by your physician, alternative causes may be explored. If additional gastrointestinal symptoms, such as those aforementioned, are present, it would be prudent to consult with a gastroenterologist.

Our team of gastroenterologists will request a comprehensive account of your symptoms, their duration, and degree of severity. Moreover, we will delve into your medical history and that of your immediate family to deduce the most plausible causes.

Diagnosing non-cardiac chest pain

Primarily, it is imperative to establish the underlying cause of the discomfort before determining an appropriate treatment course. We can administer a variety of examinations to diagnose the source of the pain, such as an endoscopic investigation to scrutinize your oesophagus and upper gastrointestinal (GI) system.

Furthermore, other evaluations that may be conducted include:

  • - Barium swallow
  • - Laryngoscopy – If the pain extends to your throat
  • - Video fluoroscopy – If you are also experiencing trouble swallowing

Treatment

For a multitude of conditions that elicit thoracic pain and discomfort, we generally initiate lifestyle modifications to gauge the impact on your symptoms.

If there is an improvement in your symptoms, we may opt for monitoring your condition. Conversely, if no alteration or exacerbation is observed, pharmaceutical intervention may be prescribed. In cases of acute symptoms, alternative treatments may be recommended, contingent on the underlying cause of the condition.

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blood in your poo

Blood in your Stool

Symptoms

Blood in your stool

Noticing blood in your stool can be a cause for concern. While there are various minor factors that can contribute to this, it can also indicate the presence of a gastrointestinal (GI) ailment. It’s important to note that in some rare instances, it may be indicative of cancer.

This article will help you understand :

  • - When to seek urgent care
  • - The signs of blood in your poo
  • - The causes
  • - How we diagnose the cause
  • - Treatment options

If you notice any blood in your stool, it’s recommended to consult with your doctor. In cases where there are no accompanying symptoms, it may not necessarily be an urgent matter, but it’s still advisable to seek medical attention for further investigation.

Related Symptoms

  • - Abdominal pain
  • - Bloating
  • - Diarrhoea
  • - Nausea and vomiting

When to seek urgent care

Although the presence of blood in your stool usually doesn’t necessitate immediate medical attention, there are some situations where seeking urgent care is warranted.

Signs to seek urgent care:

  • - Have a fever
  • - Rapid, shallow breathing
  • - Sudden bloody diarrhoea
  • - High volumes of blood lost
  • - Feeling lightheaded/ weak
  • - Severe abdominal pain or cramping

What does blood in your poo look like?

The presence of blood in your stool indicates bleeding in some part of your digestive system. This condition is commonly known as rectal bleeding, which refers to bleeding from the rectum or anus.

You might experience:

  • - Blood on your toilet paper
  • - Red streaks on your poo (stool)
  • - Pink toilet water (blood in the toilet bowl)
  • - Bloody diarrhoea or blood in your poo
  • - Black, tarry poo

Symptoms associated with blood in your poo :

  • - Fainting
  • - Confusion
  • - Tar-like poo
  • - Rectal pain or pressure
  • - Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

The colour of the blood in your poo signals where the blood is coming from in your digestive tract. It could be bright red, dark red, or black and tarry. The colour of your poo may also change due to harmless reasons, such as the food you ate. High quantities of beetroot, for example, may turn your poo red.

Bright red

If the blood in your poo is bright red, it has likely come from low in your colon or rectum. The rectum is the last part of your colon/large intestine.

During pregnancy or postpartum, it’s possible to develop hemorrhoids or an anal fissure due to elevated pressure on blood vessels in the lower abdomen. These conditions are typical during and following pregnancy.

Causes of bright red blood in your poo include :

  • - Diverticular disease (may also cause dark red or black blood)
  • - Anal fissure (a small tear in the lining of your bottom)
  • - Broken blood vessels in the gut
  • - A side effect of medication
  • - Haemorrhoids (piles)
  • - Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
  • - Severe gastroenteritis (usually caused by food poisoning
  • - Bowel cancer

Dark red/maroon

If the blood in your stool is dark red or maroon in color, it suggests that the bleeding is occurring further up in the colon or small intestine. There is also a possibility that it is originating from the stomach.

Causes of dark red blood in your poo include :

  • - Diverticular disease – may also cause bright red blood
  • - Bleeding in your stomach or gut
  • - Bowel cancer (less common)
  • - Stomach ulcer

Black and tarry

Very dark red and black poo suggests the bleeding is coming from your upper digestive tract. This can range from your mouth and food pipe (oesophagus) to your stomach and upper small intestine (duodenum).

Generally, the darker the blood, the higher the source of the bleed. If you are bleeding from your stomach, your poo may appear plum or black and tarry. Your blood might also look sticky.

Iron tablets can cause black poo, as can eating a lot of dark foods. If you are taking iron tablets, speak to your doctor about the possible side effects.

Occult (hidden) blood

For some people, we can only identify the presence of blood in their poo using a stool test.  This is a test of your poo to look for microscopic traces of blood. If the blood is present but not visible, we call this occult. 

We may perform stool tests if you are experiencing symptoms of a GI condition. Such as a change in your bowel habits or abdominal pain.

Causes of occult blood include :

  • - Ulcers
  • - Bowel cancer
  • - Haemorrhoids
  • - Diverticular disease
  • - Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • - Polyps on your colon lining or rectum

Polyps and Bowel Cancer

Blood in your poo is rarely caused by bowel cancer or polyps (abnormal growths). It’s still important to be aware of the signs.

Polyps and Bowel Cancer

  • - Losing weight
  • - Pain in your abdomen
  • - Tiredness (fatigue)
  • - Breathing problems
  • - Frequently feeling as if you need to poo
  • - Looser bowel movements or constipation
  • - Change in bowel habits, such as more frequent bowel movements

Diagnosis

If we believe your symptoms are due to a GI condition, we may perform the following tests.

  • - Stool test
  • - Abdominal scan
  • - Complete blood count
  • - Digital rectal examination
  • - Endoscopy – commonly a colonoscopy, though you may need a sigmoidoscopy or gastroscopy

Whether we perform an endoscopy will depend on your symptoms.

Treatment

How we treat blood in the poo depends on what is causing it.

Possible Treatments :

  • - Lifestyle changes
  • - Medication
  • - Endoscopic treatment
  • - Surgery

If you are experiencing an anal fissure or haemorrhoids, we may recommend a high-fibre diet and other lifestyle changes. If we find signs of an infection, we may prescribe antibiotics.

Endoscopic treatment may be appropriate if the bleed does not stop. This could involve injecting medicine, cauterising the site of the bleed, or closing off a blood vessel.

If your colon has been damaged by diverticula, IBD, or cancer, we may recommend surgery to treat this.

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What is Acid reflux?

Symptoms

What is Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.

In a normal digestive system, a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens to allow food and liquid to flow into the stomach, and then closes to prevent the contents of the stomach from flowing back into the esophagus. However, in people with acid reflux, the LES is weak or relaxed, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

Common symptoms of acid reflux :

  • - Heartburn
  • - Regurgitation
  • - Chest Pain
  • - Difficulty swallowing

If left untreated, acid reflux can cause damage to the esophagus and increase the risk of developing other health problems, such as esophageal cancer.

Treatment for acid reflux may include lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and losing weight, as well as medications to reduce acid production and heal the esophagus. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to tighten the LES and prevent acid reflux.

If you are experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

HOW CAN I CURE ACID REFLUX WITHOUT MEDICATIONS ?

There are several lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux and avoid the need for medication:

  • - Lose weight: Extra weight puts pressure on the stomach and can cause acid to leak back into the esophagus.
  • - Avoid trigger foods: Common trigger foods include citrus, tomato-based products, chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, fatty and fried foods, and spicy foods.
  • - Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals can help to reduce the amount of pressure in the stomach and reduce the risk of acid reflux.
  • - Avoid eating close to bedtime: Eating a large meal close to bedtime can cause acid to flow back into the esophagus while lying down.
  • - Avoid tight-fitting clothing: Wearing tight-fitting clothing can put pressure on the stomach and increase the risk of acid reflux.
  • - Raise the head of your bed: Elevating the head of your bed can help to prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus while you sleep.
  • - Practice relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can increase the risk of acid reflux, so practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be helpful.
  • - Chew gum: Chewing gum can help to increase saliva production and neutralize stomach acid.
  • - Drink herbal tea: Drinking herbal tea, such as chamomile or fennel, can help to soothe the digestive system and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

It’s important to note that these lifestyle changes may not work for everyone, and some people may still require medication to manage their symptoms. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you.

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bloating

What diet is good for bloating

Gastroenterology

What diet is good for bloating

A healthy and balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber, fluids, and probiotics can help alleviate bloating. Here are some general guidelines for an anti-bloating diet:

  • Increase fiber intake: Fiber helps keep the digestive system moving and can prevent constipation, which can contribute to bloating. Good sources of fiber include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help prevent bloating by softening stools and promoting regular bowel movements. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.
  • Limit gas-producing foods: Certain foods, such as beans, lentils, broccoli, cabbage, onions, and carbonated drinks, can cause bloating by producing gas in the digestive system.
  • Eat probiotic-rich foods: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help improve gut health and reduce bloating. Foods that are high in probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
  • Avoid artificial sweeteners: Some artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol and mannitol, can cause bloating in some people.
  • Chew your food thoroughly: Chewing your food thoroughly can help prevent bloating by reducing the amount of air swallowed during meals.
  • Small, frequent meals: Eating smaller, frequent meals throughout the day can help reduce bloating by preventing overeating and reducing the amount of air swallowed during meals.

It’s important to note that everyone is different, and what may cause bloating in one person may not cause it in another. Keeping a food diary can help you identify which foods may be causing your bloating. If you are experiencing persistent bloating, it’s always a good idea to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

HOW DO YOU INVESTIGATE BLOATING

If you are experiencing persistent bloating, your doctor may perform several tests to help identify the underlying cause. Here are some of the tests that may be used:

  • Physical exam: Your doctor will perform a physical exam to assess your abdomen for swelling, tenderness, and any other physical signs of bloating.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests can help rule out underlying conditions, such as anemia or liver disease, that may cause bloating.
  • Stool sample analysis: Your doctor may ask for a stool sample to check for any abnormalities or signs of infection that could be causing bloating.
  • Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as an abdominal X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound, can help determine if there is a blockage in the intestines or other abdominal organs that could be causing bloating.
  • Gastrointestinal function tests: Tests, such as a lactose intolerance test or hydrogen breath test, can help determine if you have a food intolerance that is causing bloating.
  • Endoscopy: An endoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look inside your digestive tract using a lighted scope. This test can help determine if there is a structural problem in your intestines that is causing bloating.

It’s important to keep in mind that not all tests are necessary for every individual, and the specific tests recommended will depend on your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of action for investigating your bloating.

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