‘D’ is for Doctor – when to see your physician about digestive problems
Many people do not want to bother their doctor, and many also like to look after their health naturally or holistically. There are some signs and symptoms, however, that can be indicators of more serious problems. If you suffer from any of these, then it would be a good idea to get them checked out.
- Heartburn that persists and/or becomes more severe, or is not relieved by medication
- A sensation of food caught in the chest or throat
- Unusual or persistent abdominal pain
- Gastrointestinal discomfort that interferes with daily activities
- Difficult or painful swallowing, or a feeling that there is a lump in the oesophagus
- Heartburn that causes vomiting
- Vomiting of blood, or vomit that contains ‘coffee grounds’ material
- Bloody or black stools
- Mucous in the stools
- Dramatic and unintentional weight loss
- Persistent hoarseness and/or a sore throat or cough
- Episodes of choking
- Persistent diarrhoea (four weeks or more)
- Acute and explosive diarrhoea
- New or persistent constipation
- A change in the kind of stools you are producing