Digestive issues are more common than you might think. Whether it’s heartburn, bloating, or something more serious, most of us have dealt with some kind of gut trouble. But do you know what’s really going on inside your digestive system when things go wrong? Knowing the most common digestive disorders—and what causes them—can help you manage symptoms, get the right treatment, and feel better faster. Let’s break it down.
Reflux
Ever felt a burning sensation in your chest after eating? That’s acid reflux, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) when it becomes chronic. It happens when stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus.
Causes include:
- Eating large or fatty meals
- Lying down after eating
- Obesity
- Smoking or alcohol
- Pregnancy
- Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
It’s uncomfortable, but often manageable with diet changes and medication.
IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder, meaning there’s no visible damage to the digestive tract—but boy, can it cause chaos.
Symptoms include:
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation and/or diarrhea
- Cramping
Triggers include:
- Stress
- Certain foods (dairy, fried foods, caffeine)
- Hormonal changes
- Gut sensitivity
IBS is super common, and while it’s not life-threatening, it can be life-disrupting.
Ulcers
Ulcers are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or small intestine. Most are caused by a bacterium called H. pylori or from long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen.
Common signs include:
- Burning stomach pain
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Indigestion
Left untreated, ulcers can get serious. Thankfully, antibiotics and antacids often do the trick.
Gallstones
Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder. They can block bile flow and cause sharp pain in the upper right abdomen.
Risk factors include:
- Obesity
- High-cholesterol diets
- Rapid weight loss
- Genetics
- Female gender (especially over 40)
Sometimes gallstones don’t cause symptoms at all. Other times, they require surgery.
Lactose
Lactose intolerance happens when your body doesn’t produce enough lactase—the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar in milk.
Symptoms appear after eating dairy and include:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
It’s not dangerous, but it’s definitely uncomfortable. Many people manage it with diet changes or lactase supplements.
Celiac
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye). When people with celiac eat gluten, their immune system attacks their small intestine.
Symptoms include:
- Chronic diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Malabsorption of nutrients
It’s serious, but manageable with a strict gluten-free diet.
Here’s a helpful overview:
| Disorder | Main Cause | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Acid Reflux | Weak LES, fatty foods | Heartburn, chest pain |
| IBS | Stress, food triggers | Bloating, cramping, diarrhea |
| Ulcers | H. pylori, NSAIDs | Burning pain, nausea |
| Gallstones | Fatty diet, genetics | Upper-right abdominal pain |
| Lactose Intolerance | Lack of lactase | Gas, bloating, cramps |
| Celiac Disease | Autoimmune gluten reaction | Diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss |
Knowing what causes these common digestive disorders is the first step to managing them. If you’re dealing with regular gut issues, don’t just brush it off as “normal.” Your digestive health affects your whole body—from energy levels to mood. Talk to a doctor, make some changes, and give your gut the love it deserves.
FAQs
What causes acid reflux?
Weak LES muscle, fatty foods, and lying down after eating.
Is IBS a serious condition?
It’s not dangerous but can affect daily life.
Can ulcers be cured?
Yes, with antibiotics and antacids.
Are gallstones always painful?
Not always—some cause no symptoms at all.
Is celiac the same as gluten intolerance?
No, celiac is autoimmune; gluten intolerance is not.
