Digestive problems can make living life to its fullest difficult. Although work, travel and socializing have changed dramatically in recent years, don’t let recent circumstances keep you from getting the digestive care you need to stay healthy physically and mentally.
An All-Too-Common Problem
Nearly one in five of us is affected by some type of digestive disease that prevents our bodies from properly breaking down food into the nutrients needed for energy, growth and cell repair. “Common digestive problems include heartburn, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), diverticulosis, and colon cancer,” says Lola Kwan, MD, a gastroenterologist with UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group.
While some digestive problems last only a short time, others are chronic in that they last longer or recur frequently. Symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Stomach cramps
- Stomach pain
Don’t Suffer in Silence
Dr. Kwan explains, “Many people with digestive issues suffer in silence because talking about things like bowel habits can be uncomfortable.” Rest assured that UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group’s gastroenterology specialists are ready to listen, answer your questions, and explain treatment options.
“Our goal is simple: Diagnose the problem quickly, deliver the care you need and do everything in our power to prevent the problem from happening again,” says Dr. Kwan.
Managing Your Digestive Health
We will work with you to devise the best treatment plan to get the symptoms of your digestive disorder under control. This includes everything from dietary and lifestyle changes, to medication, to minimally invasive techniques.
Keep Stress at Bay
Taking care of your digestive system is just a part of managing your health. Another important way to do this is to avoid excess anxiety. Dr. Kwan says, “Stress has a major impact on your gastrointestinal system, and it’s important to take care of your emotional health, too.”
Ways to cope with stress might include:
- Connecting with others
- Making time to unwind by doing activities that you enjoy
- Taking breaks from the news, including social media
- Taking care of your body by eating healthy meals, exercising regularly and getting plenty of rest
You can also keep yourself healthy and keep COVID, the flu and other viruses away by washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick people, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, using a cloth face mask and covering coughs and sneezes.
We’re Here to Help
Lola Kwan, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with UChicago Medicine AdventHealth and sees adults and older adults. She is accepting new patients at her two office locations in Bolingbrook and Hinsdale.
Call
Call630-312-2590 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
