Grumbling stomach, bloating, heartburn, abdominal pains, and problems going to the bathroom?
Sure, we all suffer from these issues from time to time, but if you find yourself constantly dealing with ’em, it could be what is called a digestive disorder. From conditions like Crohn’s Disease to ulcerative colitis, gastritis, and hemorrhoids, digestive diseases can vary far and wide. In fact, they can affect all parts of your digestive tract, even impacting remote areas of your body that you wouldn’t think are related.
Digestive Disorders & The Black Community
Did you know the Black community may be particularly at risk of certain digestive disorders?
According to The Association of Black Gastroenterologists and Hepatologists, many Black folks are not getting the medical attention and treatment they deserve.
There is a lack of Black physicians in the field of gastroenterology, accounting for just around four percent of all practicing gastroenterologists and hepatologists (digestive doctors) in the U.S. This is bad news, especially when considering that Black Americans have a 20 percent higher risk of colorectal cancer diagnosis and a 40 percent greater chance of dying from colorectal cancer compared to white Americans!
Clearly, these numbers from the American Cancer Society paint a bleak picture.
That’s why you must know what to look for. While gastrointestinal disorders share many common symptoms, some symptoms may slip through the cracks (pun not intended).
Here are five signs you could be missing that you have a digestive disorder.
RELATED: 11 Great Ways to Improve Your Digestion Naturally
1. Difficulty Swallowing
Called dysphagia, difficulty swallowing can be a rather scary occurrence. You may feel like you have something stuck in your throat, like your tongue and saliva aren’t working properly. Sometimes, it may lead to coughing and even a feeling of choking.
Well, it turns out Black Americans and individuals with Mediterranean ancestry may be more prone to this condition. Caused by many digestive disorders, dysphagia can occur when nerves and muscles are damaged. Oftentimes, stomach acid may cause