Permeable bowel syndrome is a disorder of the digestive system. Also known as leaky gut, this condition is associated with problems in the intestinal wall. This condition, which has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of people, can be seen with different signs and symptoms. Recovery is possible if the disease is diagnosed early and the treatment is applied correctly.
In some cases, the function of the intestinal wall can be impaired. In such cases, disruptions can lead to bacteria, food particles or substances such as toxins reaching the bloodstream through the intestines. For this reason, this disease can also occur due to different causes. It is important to diagnose and plan the treatment process correctly. Treatment is determined individually and by specialist doctors depending on the condition of the disease.
What are the Symptoms of Permeable Bowel Syndrome?
It is not easy to identify the disease with any symptoms or complaints. Because the symptoms experienced in this disease are similar to many different health problems.
Symptoms and findings that can complicate or delay diagnosis are common symptoms of many gastroenterological disorders. However, there are also some common symptoms.
Thesymptoms of permeable bowel syndrome are as follows:
- Nutrition problems
- Vitamin deficiency
- Mineral deficiency
- Slimming and weight loss without a cause
- Chronic bloating, constipation or diarrhea
- Problems with consciousness, loss of consciousness or blurred vision
- Impaired concentration and focus
- Recurrent feeling of extreme fatigue
- Pain in the head and joints
- Widespread inflammation in the body
- Skin problems and rashes (acne, eczema)
As seen in the symptoms given above, it is a matter of debate whether this condition, which has similar complaints with many different diseases, is a disease or a symptom.
It can also be seen as a risk factor for different health problems. Given the connection between the brain and the gut, depression and anxiety may be among the different psychological problems that this disease can cause.
What Causes Permeable Bowel Syndrome?
Although there is no conclusively proven information and data on the causes of the disease, there are some risk factors that are thought to play a role in its development. First of all, the barrier in the intestines is not seen as a completely impenetrable wall and may be permeable in some cases.
If the permeability rate increases, health problems may occur. One of the important factors in permeability is genetic predisposition. In addition, there are factors that can cause the disease.
The causes of permeable bowel syndrome can be listed as follows:
- Excessive alcohol use
- Exposure to too much stress
- Disruption of the gut microbiota
- Diabetes
- Irregular and malnutrition
- Autoimmune disorder
- Some allergic conditions and diseases
- Infectious diseases
- Irritable bowel syndrome and some gastrointestinal disorders
According to some research and studies, it is thought that many diseases and health problems may be caused by this disease. For this reason, it is possible that health problems in different parts of the body may also be linked to leaky gut syndrome. Detailed and precise data is needed to reach a conclusion on this issue.
How is Permeable Bowel Syndrome Diagnosed?
It is known that the disease is difficult to diagnose and the symptoms experienced in cases are similar to those of different diseases. In cases where health problems such as constipation or chronic diarrhea are experienced, there is a high probability that a health problem related to the intestines may occur. In cases where such symptoms and complaints are experienced, people should consult gastroenterology specialists and be examined.
The patient should explain the complaints and symptoms to the specialist in detail. A number of tests deemed necessary by the doctor can be performed. One of the procedures performed after the examination is to take a stool sample and perform a stool test. This procedure is highly preferred in terms of identifying problems and infections in the intestinal flora.
In addition, in cases where the disease is suspected, a zonulin test can be performed to examine the integrity of the intestinal barrier. If there is a problem in the structure of the intestinal wall, the zonulin level in the blood will increase, which is important for detecting the disease.
The digestive system and blood are examined through endoscopic applications. It can be determined whether there is a condition that may cause permeability in the intestines. Treatment planning for people diagnosed with permeable bowel syndrome as a result of examinations, tests and examinations is determined by the doctor by looking at the condition of the disease and the different problems it causes.
What is the Treatment of Permeable Bowel Syndrome?
Permeable bowel syndrome is a treatable disease. Since treatment methods may vary from person to person and depending on the severity of the disease, planning is made as the doctor deems necessary.
In case of examination, examination and medical history by the doctor, a special treatment process is planned for the patient. In this process, some suggestions and recommendations are at the forefront.
In addition, since this condition is not a disease alone, efforts can be made to reduce complaints with different methods.
There may be some changes that need to be made about the diet. The patient can be referred to a dietitian by the doctor and an appropriate nutrition program can be prepared for the patient.
Establishing a diet and ensuring a balanced intestinal flora is the most effective method to cure the disease, absorb nutrients and control symptoms. Foods that the person is allergic to should be transferred to the specialist doctor and dietitian and removed from the diet program.
Making some lifestyle changes can also improve intestinal health. The person may be advised to do sports and exercise regularly, to ensure and maintain sleep patterns.
It is also important to stop smoking and avoid stress as much as possible. Since smoking and stress affect intestinal health, it is beneficial for people to stay away from substances such as cigarettes and stress.
Since most specialist doctors and physicians do not consider this disease as a problem alone, treatment planning is carried out with different methods. It is important to take the necessary precautions as antibiotics that the person is using as a result of different diseases have a triggering role in this disease. In addition, the person should avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.