Many people suffer from leaky gut and are unaware. This gastrointestinal disorder causes a range of symptoms that are sometimes mistaken for other common disorders. Individuals need to know the symptoms of this condition so they can take action to ensure they receive relief.
What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?
Before considering curing a leaky gut, individuals need to know what this condition entails. Leaky gut syndrome, while considered a condition, is more of a byproduct of other gastrointestinal problems. Because the symptoms can mimic other illnesses, many doctors find it difficult to diagnose patients with leaky gut.
What Are the Symptoms of Leaky Gut?
Those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders need to be aware of the symptoms that may occur with a leaky gut. Being aware of the symptoms will help individuals know when they need to seek further testing to see if they have this syndrome. The following are some of the symptoms people begin to experience.
People may suffer from chronic bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
A person with leaky gut syndrome cannot process foods properly, so they may lack key nutrients.
Individuals will also experience fatigue.
People with leaky gut may encounter frequent headaches and bouts of confusion.
Those with leaky gut often experience widespread inflammation.
Someone with this condition may also develop skin conditions like rashes and acne.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Leaky Gut?
Detecting a leaky gut is difficult and sometimes impossible. While there are no definitive tests, many doctors perform mannitol and lactulose testing. During this test, the patient drinks a solution containing these two water-soluble molecules. The patient's urine is collected for six hours. The amounts found in the urine determine how much was absorbed in the gut.
Foods to Avoid With Leaky Gut
Healing a leaky gut begins with addressing the foods people eat. If a doctor feels confident their patient has leaky gut syndrome, they will ask them to reduce or eliminate the following foods, as these can worsen the condition and cause advanced symptoms.
Processed foods
Foods high in sugar
Refined oils
Alcohol
High-fat foods
Foods that trigger allergies and sensitivities
What Is the Treatment For Leaky Gut Syndrome?
As of right now, there is no FDA-approved medication for leaky gut syndrome because so much is still unknown about the condition and its causes. The treatment approach will be based on the underlying condition causing the leaky gut, which could be inflammatory bowel disease.
For this condition, doctors will prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to bring the inflammation levels under control. Some patients may need to take immunosuppressants, anticholinergic medications, or antibiotics, depending on their underlying conditions. The condition takes time and a concerted approach to heal.
Discover More Information on Leaky Gut Syndrome
Once a doctor determines a patient has leaky gut syndrome, they will offer extensive information to help patients address their condition. Lifestyle changes are often necessary for leaky gut syndrome. Depending on the severity, some people can experience benefits from changing their diets alone.
If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms of leaky gut, now is the time to schedule an appointment with your physician. Waiting too long to seek treatment will only lead to increased symptoms that become more difficult to manage. With a prompt diagnosis and treatment, you can begin to understand the steps involved in getting relief.
