Common gastrointestinal diseases in the elderly

As we age, our bodies can become less efficient. As a result, it can experience several health issues, including gastrointestinal diseases and digestive problems. Even though digestive issues can occur at any age, most the elderlies suffer one or more issues with digestion. Here are some of the most common digestive problems that older adults may face:

Constipation:

Constipation is a frequent digestive problem in the elderly. It is difficult to pass stool when you’re constipated. Several factors, such as a lack of fibre in your diet, dehydration or taking certain medications, can cause this disease. When people enter their sixties and seventies, we see a change in their bowel movements which can be painful or infrequent. Digestion is a process in which the food passes through various muscle contractions. As one age, this process slows down and affects the food movement in the colon.

Medication:

Old age can lead to a plethora of health conditions which require medications. Several medications, especially those taken for high blood pressure and pain, directly affect the bowel.

Acid reflux:

Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. This is a common problem in the elderly and can be made worse by certain medications. The oesophagus is a tube connecting the mouth and stomach. Old age slows down the oesophagus and makes swallowing challenging. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common issue amongst the elderly. In addition, poor eating habits such as late-night meals, fast foods, and fried foods can trigger reflux. Some medications, including blood pressure medicines, also cause heartburn.

Irritable bowel syndrome:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), common amongst older adults, is a condition that causes digestive problems like abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea. If you are seeking stomach pain and diarrhoea treatment, search “best gastroenterologist near me” to get directed to the SeekMed page.

Diverticulosis:

Diverticulosis is a state in which small pouches called diverticula accumulate in the digestive tract. There are no visible symptoms, but digestive problems like pain, bloating, cramps and bleeding are possible. Diverticulosis occurs when the pouches get inflamed.

Lack of fluids:

Dehydration is a contributing factor to constipation. It is increasingly seen in older adults who take diuretics to treat high blood pressure. Diuretics reduce blood pressure by getting rid of salt and water through urination. Patients often drink fewer fluids to avoid using the washroom all day long. However, urinating more and consuming less water dehydrates the body and leads to constipation.

If you’re experiencing any digestive issues, it’s crucial to consult a medical expert. You may download the SeekMed app and book an appointment with our super-specialist, Dr Ajay Kumar. He is a renowned gastroenterologist with more than 30 years of experience, specialising in the intestine, liver, stomach, pancreas and biliary system. We have a panel of the best gastroenterologists in India who can help you identify the cause of your problems and find the best treatment.