What happens if your digestive system doesn work

Constipation involves having fewer than three bowel movements a week. Stools may be firm or hard to pass. Swelling or bloating of the abdomen may occur. Common causes of constipation include not eating enough fiber, not drinking enough water, certain medications, and changes in routine such as travel. Constipation can occur during pregnancy. The increased levels of hormones during pregnancy can slow down the digestive system.

If constipation continues, your health care provider may suggest a laxative. Most of these products are available without a prescription. If you have diarrhea, drink plenty of fluids to replace those that are lost. If diarrhea does not go away in a few hours, drink fluids and liquid foods that contain salt, such as sports drinks or broth.

Avoid drinking dairy products, soda, and juices. They may contain lactose, caffeine, or sugar, which may make diarrhea worse. Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications can be helpful. However, they should not be taken if you have a high fever or bloody diarrhea, which can be signs of a bacterial infection. If diarrhea lasts more than 2 days, see your health care provider.

Also see your health care provider if your stools contain blood or pus or if you have a fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration thirst, dry skin, fatigue, dizziness, less frequent urination, or dark-colored urine.

If you use birth control pills, diarrhea or vomiting may decrease their effectiveness. Call your health care provider about what to do if you have vomiting or diarrhea that lasts for 48 hours or more after taking a combined birth control pill or that lasts for 3 hours or more after taking a progestin-only pill. Acid reflux occurs when the muscle in your esophagus that opens and closes when you swallow does not work properly.

When this happens, food and digestive fluids, which contain acid, back up into your esophagus. Acid reflux can cause a burning feeling in your chest and throat, which sometimes is called heartburn. Several over-the-counter medications are available that may help reduce your symptoms. Antacids reduce the acid content in the stomach. Other medications stop the digestive system from making too much acid.

Some of these medications are available over the counter. If acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, or if you have been taking over-the-counter medications for more than 2 weeks with no relief, you may have a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD. Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medication.

Surgery also is used to treat GERD in some cases. GERD that is not treated can lead to complications, including ulcers in the esophagus, narrowing of the esophagus, and a precancerous condition called Barrett esophagus. If you have GERD, it is important to see your health care provider regularly for treatment and follow-up.

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum. They can become painful, itchy, and irritated. The symptoms of hemorrhoids can be relieved with ice packs to reduce swelling. Sitting in a bath of warm water may relieve symptoms. You also may use a hemorrhoid cream or suppositories. Surgery may be needed to remove hemorrhoids in some cases. Adding fiber and fluids to your diet can help prevent hemorrhoids.

These disorders affect more women than men. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Feldman M, et al. Gastric neuromuscular function and neuromuscular disorders. Elsevier; Accessed Aug. Cameron AM, et al. Management of motility disorders of the stomach and small bowel. In: Current Surgical Therapy. Camilleri M. Gastroparesis: Etiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis. Treatment of gastroparesis.

Parsi MA, et al. Techniques and devices for the endoscopic treatment of Gastroparesis. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Hasler WL. Electrical stimulation for gastroparesis. The digestive system is a complex and wide ranging part of the body.

It spans from the mouth and all the way to the rectum. The main function of the digestive system is to get rid of the waste and help the body absorb important nutrients and minerals. Our gut is vital to our overall health and is linked to our immune system, mood, mental health, autoimmune diseases, endocrine diseases, skin conditions, and cancer among other things.