Understanding the intricacies of your gut is like attempting to understand the darkest depths of the ocean – there is still much to be discovered and areas that are not always seen in black and white.
Leaky gut syndrome is one such medical mystery. For some, leaky gut isn’t a diagnosis but the absence of one that takes a skilled gastroenterologist to discover. For others, it is an underlying cause and symptom of other gastrointestinal diseases.
So, is a leaky gut a GI condition? A symptom of underlying GI issues? Find out what our GI doctors in Charleston, SC have to say!
First and Foremost – Is Leaky Gut Real?
Leaky gut is somewhat of a mystery. Not currently recognized as a medical diagnosis, leaky gut syndrome can be viewed in some medical circles as a hypothetical condition and in others as a potential symptom or cause for certain GI conditions.
Leaky gut, or intestinal permeability, is real, but research is still ongoing on its classification as a disease.
What is Leaky Gut?
Within our stomachs, there is an extensive intestinal lining covering the surface of our gut. As the digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine break down nutrients, tight openings in the intestinal wall allow those nutrients to pass through into the bloodstream.
The rate of this passing is known as intestinal permeability. An unhealthy gut lining may have large cracks or holes, allowing partially digested food and toxic substances to leak into the bloodstream.
This may trigger an inflammatory response or change the balance of good bacteria, or flora, in the gut which can manifest into other GI tract conditions, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.
Common Symptoms and Signs of Leaky Gut
Proposed symptoms of leaky gut syndrome may resemble the symptoms of other health conditions, making it that much more difficult for your GI doctors near you to identify.
Leaky gut syndrome may cause or contribute to the following symptoms:
The increase in intestinal permeability is a recognized symptom of several digestive system conditions. Along with Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, the chronic increase in intestinal permeability may contribute to the following digestive conditions:
Chronic low-grade inflammation may also be a factor in metabolic disorders, such as arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia.
Research is still ongoing as to the link between intestinal permeability and other GI conditions, and its contributions to these conditions.
If you believe you are experiencing the above GI symptoms, contact your Charleston gastroenterology specialist. It could be an indicator of a more serious GI issue.
Is There a Test for Leaky Gut?
There is no standard test to measure intestinal permeability, which is part of the reason it is not a medical diagnosis. We recommend talking to your gastroenterologist about your symptoms, so we can get a greater understanding of your needs and get down to the root cause of your symptoms.
Get to the Bottom of Your Gut Health with the Help of Charleston GI
As research continues to be conducted on leaky gut syndrome, one aspect remains clear – you should never ignore your gut symptoms. The health of your gut depends on your ability to look out for possible GI tract symptoms and recognize when your gut is working both with you and against you. With the help of a gastroenterologist near you, you can find relief.
When it comes to your health, it’s important to trust your gut and your body! We have four convenient Charleston area locations to choose from, in West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Carnes Crossroads. Our Charleston GI doctors are ready five days a week to offer you relief.
