COMMON DIGESTIVE DISORDERS: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

 In childhood, one of the most common digestive diseases is colic, which causes difficulties in evacuating gases, alteration of the intestinal flora or contraction of the muscle fibers of the intestine.

Digestive diseases represent more than 20% of visits to the Primary Care physician. Although some last a short time, others are chronic or long-lasting.

In childhood, one of the most common digestive diseases is colic, which causes difficulties to evacuate gases, alteration of the intestinal flora or contraction of the muscle fibers of the intestine, according to the Valencian Pediatric Society. It is produced by the immaturity of the digestive system and its duration is temporary, so that after weeks or a few months it disappears without the need for treatment.

Another of the most common diseases, not only in childhood, but also in adolescence and adulthood, is gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which occurs when the contents of the stomach return to the esophagus. The most common symptom is a burning or heartburn sensation in the pit of the stomach and an acid taste in the throat. The treatment of this disorder is based on postural and hygienic-dietary measures and on pharmacological treatments, as highlighted by the General Council of Official Medical Associations. The latter are based on the inhibition of gastric acid secretion with antisecretory drugs.