Digestive Problems

Introduction: Why Digestive Problems Need a New Approach

Digestive issues are widespread and can significantly affect your quality of life. From bloating to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, and more, these conditions often result from underlying imbalances in the gut. At Patients Medical in New York City, we take an integrative approach to address digestive problems by uncovering the root causes, not just masking the symptoms. Our expert team combines conventional, holistic, and functional medicine to restore balance to your digestive system and improve overall health.

We treat the whole person—not just the gut.

What Are Digestive Problems?

Digestive problems refer to a variety of conditions that affect the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. These conditions can cause discomfort, pain, bloating, and other symptoms that interfere with daily life. Some common digestive issues include:

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A functional disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux causing heartburn and discomfort.
  • Leaky Gut Syndrome: A condition where the lining of the intestines becomes damaged, allowing toxins to leak into the bloodstream.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, where inflammation affects the intestines.
  • Constipation and Diarrhea: Chronic issues with bowel movements that affect digestive health.

These conditions can stem from a variety of causes, and it’s important to find the right approach for healing.

What Are Digestive Problems?

Common Symptoms of Digestive Problems

Digestive issues can present in various forms, and the symptoms may vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, it’s important to get a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause.

Root Causes: Why Do You Have Digestive Problems?

Functional medicine aims to identify the root causes of digestive problems, focusing on systemic factors that impact gut health. These may include:

  • Poor diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can promote inflammation and disrupt gut flora.
  • Chronic stress: Stress can negatively affect digestion by altering gut motility and increasing acid production.
  • Leaky gut syndrome: The breakdown of the intestinal lining allows toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic inflammation.
  • Gut microbiome imbalances: An imbalance of gut bacteria can cause symptoms like bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements.
  • Food sensitivities or intolerances: Common foods like gluten, dairy, or FODMAPs can trigger digestive distress.
  • Toxin overload: Exposure to environmental toxins or medications can disrupt digestion and gut health.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Issues like thyroid dysfunction, adrenal imbalances, or estrogen dominance can contribute to digestive disturbances.
  • Infections: Pathogens such as parasites or bacteria can lead to chronic digestive issues.

By addressing these root causes, we can promote healing from the inside out.

Root Causes: Why Do You Have Digestive Problems?

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we use advanced diagnostic tools to identify what’s causing your digestive problems. Some of the tests we use include:

Stool microbiome analysis to assess gut flora

Comprehensive digestive stool analysis (for inflammation, infections, and enzyme imbalances)

Food sensitivity testing (gluten, dairy, FODMAPs, etc.)

Blood tests for inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR)

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) testing

Leaky gut testing (intestinal permeability)

Hormone panels (thyroid, cortisol, estrogen)

Liver function and bile acid tests

Integrative Treatments for Digestive Problems

Nutritional Therapy

  • Anti-inflammatory, whole-food-based diets
  • Low-FODMAP or gluten-free diets to address sensitivities
  • Nutrient-dense meal planning to promote gut health
  • Elimination diets to identify food triggers

IV Therapy & Nutraceuticals

  • Magnesium for muscle relaxation and bowel regularity
  • Vitamin B12 for energy and digestive health
  • Glutathione to reduce gut inflammation
  • Vitamin C for immune support and tissue repair

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

  • Probiotics to restore gut flora balance
  • L-glutamine to promote intestinal healing
  • Digestive enzymes to support nutrient absorption
  • Turmeric and ginger for their anti-inflammatory properties

Stress Reduction Techniques

  • Meditation and mindfulness practices
  • Acupuncture for digestive support and stress relief
  • Adaptogenic herbs (like ashwagandha) to support adrenal health

Hormone Balancing

We use bioidentical hormones and thyroid optimization to address hormonal imbalances that may contribute to digestive issues. Balancing these hormones can improve gut motility and reduce symptoms.

Real Case Study: Jessica’s Journey to Digestive Health

Jessica, 38, came to us with chronic bloating, constipation, and fatigue. Despite trying various treatments, she couldn’t find lasting relief. After testing, we discovered an imbalance in her gut microbiome, leaky gut, and low thyroid function.

We created a customized treatment plan, which included:

  • A gut-healing protocol with probiotics and L-glutamine
  • A low-FODMAP meal plan
  • Nutrient IVs for gut inflammation and fatigue
  • Thyroid optimization

Three months later, Jessica’s symptoms were significantly reduced, and she had regained energy and digestive comfort.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common causes include poor diet, stress, gut microbiome imbalances, food sensitivities, leaky gut, and infections.

Symptoms include bloating, gas, food sensitivities, fatigue, and autoimmune issues. Testing for intestinal permeability is necessary to confirm.

Yes, diet plays a crucial role in managing and healing digestive issues. Anti-inflammatory diets, low-FODMAP diets, and gluten-free diets are often recommended.

Yes, probiotics help restore the balance of gut bacteria, supporting digestion and reducing inflammation. They are essential in healing the gut.

Improvement timelines vary, but many patients report feeling better within 1-3 months of implementing the right treatment plan.

Yes, we offer comprehensive food sensitivity testing to identify potential triggers that may be causing digestive distress

Yes, chronic stress can disrupt digestion, lead to gut inflammation, and worsen conditions like IBS and acid reflux.

While we focus on natural, integrative treatments, we may recommend medications for short-term symptom relief, working alongside your primary care provider.

If you experience digestive problems along with symptoms of hormonal imbalance (like fatigue, weight changes, or irregular periods), hormone testing may be recommended.

We are an out-of-network provider but offer superbills for potential reimbursement. Lab tests may be partially covered by insurance.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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