Most people experience an occasional bout of constipation or diarrhea, and this is very normal in most cases. What isn't normal is suffering from some type of digestive issue every single day. If you are tired of the issues you have been experiencing lately, it might be a good idea to visit a family doctor. Digestive issues can be hard to diagnose, and here are a couple things your doctor might do to help narrow down the cause of your digestive issues.

Elimination diet

If you do not want to undergo any tests right away, your doctor might suggest trying an elimination diet. This often involves cutting out certain foods from your diet and tracking the results. In some cases, doctors will tell you to stop eating anything that contains dairy products, gluten, soy, and eggs. These are four common triggers for digestive issues such as bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.

If you cut these types of foods out of your diet for around three weeks and notice a huge improvement in your digestive system, it's likely that your body has an allergy to one or more of these products.

Tests that can help

Trying an elimination diet is a great place to start when trying to determine what is causing your digestive issues, but it is not always the only step required. In most cases, doctors will have to perform various types of tests to find the issues. Your doctor might suggest taking a blood test and stool test to begin. These tests can help determine if there are any problems with the way your intestines, colon, pancreas, and liver are working.

Doctors can also perform a lower GI series test, which is designed to locate any problems you might have in your intestines or rectum. Laparoscopic testing is also commonly used to find digestive issues, and this is ideal for locating problems such as gallstones. Doctors will also commonly recommend MRIs or CT scans when they are having problems locating the issues a person has. There are many different tests that can be completed to find out what is causing the issues you are having.

If you are tired of living with digestive issues, visit a doctor. Most digestive issues can be treated and solved with medication or lifestyle changes, and the best way to get help for your issues is by visiting a family doctor like Harvey Harold E II MD PLLC in your area.