Book An Appointment
For Emergency +91 96444 96444
Book An Appointment

What are Gastrointestinal Disorders?

Gastrointestinal disorders encompass a broad range of conditions affecting the digestive system—including the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. These may disrupt the body's ability to digest food, absorb nutrients, or eliminate waste properly.
Some GI disorders are acute and resolve quickly, while others are chronic or life-threatening. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential to prevent complications and maintain overall health.

Common Gastrointestinal Disorders​ Treated at SRM Global Hospitals

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Definition : Chronic digestive condition with stomach acid or bile flowing back into the esophagus, irritating its lining.

Causes : Weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, certain foods.

Symptoms :

  • Frequent heartburn
  • Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
  • Chest pain or burning
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Chronic cough or sore throat Treatment: Lifestyle changes, antacids, PPIs, H2 blockers, or anti-reflux surgery.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Definition : A functional bowel disorder affecting the colon, without structural abnormalities.

Triggers : Stress, certain foods (gluten, dairy, high FODMAPs), hormonal changes.

Symptoms :

  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Bloating and gas
  • Alternating diarrhea and constipation
  • Mucus in stool

Treatment : Dietary modification, stress management, antispasmodics, probiotics, fiber supplements.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Includes : Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

Definition : Autoimmune conditions causing chronic inflammation in the GI tract

Symptoms :

  • Persistent diarrhea
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Urgency to defecate
  • Abdominal pain and fatigue
  • Weight loss

Complications : Dietary modification, stress management, antispasmodics, probiotics, fiber supplements.

Treatment : Anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, biologics, surgery if complications arise.

Gastritis

Definition : Inflammation or erosion of the stomach lining

Causes : H. pylori infection, long-term NSAID use, excessive alcohol, stress, bile reflux

Symptoms :

  • Upper abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Feeling full after a few bites

Treatment : Antacids, antibiotics (if H. pylori), dietary changes.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Definition : Open sores on the lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus.

Causes : H. pylori, chronic NSAID use, stress, smoking.

Symptoms :

  • Burning stomach pain
  • Bloating and belching
  • Nausea
  • Blood in vomit or stools (in severe cases)

Treatment : PPIs, antibiotics, acid reducers, lifestyle modifications.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Diagnosis

  • Clinical evaluation based on symptoms
  • Upper GI endoscopy (if symptoms are severe or persistent)
  • Esophageal pH monitoring (for refractory or unclear cases)
  • Esophageal manometry (to assess esophageal motility in select patients)

Treatment

  • Lifestyle changes (weight loss, elevating head of bed, avoiding trigger foods, smaller meals)
  • Antacids for quick relief
  • H2 receptor blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid suppression
  • Prokinetic agents (in select cases
  • Surgical options (e.g., Nissen fundoplication) for severe or refractory GERD

Whom to Consult?​

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms related to gastrointestinal disorders, it’s important to consult a Medical Gastroenterologist at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai. Here are some specialists you may consider,

Dr. U.P. Srinivasan

Dr. U.P. Srinivasan

MBBS, MS, MCH

Lead & Senior Consultant

Know More
Book an Appointment
Dr. Sugi Subramaniam R.V

Dr. Sugi Subramaniam R.V

MBBS, MS, MCH(Surgical Gastro), PDF (Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery), FACS, FICRS

Senior Consultant

Know More
Dr.Gopi Ramu

Dr.Gopi Ramu

MBBS, DNB

Consultant

Know More
Dr. O. L. Naganath Babu

Dr. O. L. Naganath Babu

MBBS, MS, DNB, MCH

Consultant - Surgical Gastroenterology

Know More
Dr. Karikal Chakravarthi. R

Dr. Karikal Chakravarthi. R

MBBS, MS, MCH

Consultant - Surgical Gastroenterology

Know More

Schedule an appointment with Gastroenterologist Today

Book an Appointment

When to See a Doctor

  • Persistent abdominal pain or cramps
  • Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
  • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
  • Chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea or vomiting lasting more than 2–3 days
  • Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools

Consult our expert if you experience​​

  • Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
  • Changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few days
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools

Common FAQs About Gastrointestinal Disorders at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai

Q: Can dietary changes help manage gastrointestinal disorders?

A: Yes, certain dietary modifications, such as avoiding trigger foods and increasing fiber intake, can help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.

Q: Are gastrointestinal disorders hereditary?

A: Some gastrointestinal disorders, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, have a genetic component, but not all gastrointestinal disorders are hereditary.

Q: Can stress increase symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?

A: Yes, stress can trigger or worsen symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders like IBS. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes may help improve symptoms.

Q: Is it normal to experience occasional digestive discomfort?

A: Occasional digestive discomfort is common and often resolves on its own. However, persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

SRM Global Hospitals Pvt Ltd strives to deliver exceptional patient care with world-class expertise supported by next – gen medical and digital technologies because you deserve the quality care and are at the core of everything we do.

Quick Links
FAQ's
Our Specialties
Contact Us
Connect Us
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Youtube
Copyright © 2025 SRM Global Hospitals Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved.