Blood Testing
Digestive Health Screen
What is Digestive Health?
Digestive health refers to the proper functioning of your digestive system, which includes your stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. This system is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. Maintaining good digestive health is essential for overall well-being, as it affects your energy levels, immunity, and even mental health.
Common Digestive Problems
Several issues can impact digestive health, leading to discomfort and potential long-term health concerns. Some of the most common digestive problems include:
Indigestion (Dyspepsia): A general term for discomfort in the upper abdomen, often related to overeating, stress, or certain foods.
Heartburn and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): Occurs when stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition causing symptoms like bloating, cramping, diarrhoea, and constipation.
Constipation: Difficulty passing stools, often associated with a low-fibre diet, dehydration, or lack of physical activity.
Diarrhoea: Frequent, loose stools often caused by infections, food intolerances, or stress.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation in the intestines.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it could indicate a digestive issue:
- Persistent or severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between both)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stools or dark, tarry stools
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Nausea or vomiting
Digestive Health Screening
If you have persistent symptoms, our Digestive Health Screen can help identify key conditions:
- Calprotectin: Detects intestinal inflammation, useful for diagnosing IBD (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis).
- tTG Antibodies: Tests for coeliac disease, an autoimmune reaction to gluten.
- H. Pylori Antibody IgG: Identifies Helicobacter pylori infection, a common cause of ulcers and gastritis.
Supporting Digestive Health
There are several ways to support and maintain good digestive health:
- Balanced Diet: High-fibre foods aid digestion, while fatty, spicy, and processed foods may cause irritation.
- Hydration & Exercise: Water and regular movement prevent constipation and support gut health.
- Stress Management: Techniques like deep breathing and meditation can reduce digestive discomfort.
- Limit Smoking & Alcohol: Both can irritate the digestive tract and increase health risks.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should also seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or unexplained abdominal pain
- Persistent diarrhoea or constipation
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Difficulty swallowing or persistent nausea
Maintaining digestive health is crucial for your overall well-being. Simple lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can go a long way in supporting proper digestion
Price
£87.00
