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Digestive disorders health centre

Digestive disorders overview

Common digestive problems such as heartburn, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes daily suffering for millions and can limit a person's quality of life.

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Medications

When to call a doctor about digestive problems

You should call your doctor if you have any of the following digestive symptoms:

  • Your heartburn persists and/or becomes more severe.
  • You have the sensation of food caught in your chest or throat.
  • You have unusual or persistent abdominal pain.
  • Your discomfort interferes with your lifestyle or daily activities.
  • You have difficulty swallowing or have pain when swallowing.
  • Your heartburn is not relieved by medication or causes you to vomit.
  • You vomit blood.
  • You have bloody or black stools.
  • You have lost a significant amount of weight.
  • You have persistent hoarseness and/or a sore throat.
  • You have episodes of choking.
  • You have persistent diarrhoea.
  • You have new or persistent constipation.

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