Ask a doctor - What are symptoms of bad intestines?

Q. What are symptoms of bad intestines?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

When your intestines are not functioning properly, you might experience a range of symptoms that can indicate something's off. Here's a rundown:

1. Digestive Issues: This can include things like bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of these. If you're frequently feeling uncomfortable after eating, it could be a sign of intestinal trouble.

2. Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain or discomfort in your abdomen, especially if it's crampy or sharp, might be pointing to intestinal problems. The pain can vary in intensity and might come and go.

3. Changes in Bowel Habits: If you notice significant changes in your bowel movements, like suddenly having diarrhea or being constipated for an extended period, it's worth paying attention to. Your intestines play a big role in regulating your bowel movements, so changes can signal an issue.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss: If you're losing weight without trying, and there's no clear explanation like changes in diet or exercise, it could be due to problems in your intestines interfering with nutrient absorption.

5. Fatigue: Your intestines absorb nutrients from the food you eat, so if they're not working properly, you might not be getting the nutrients your body needs. This can lead to fatigue and overall weakness.

6. Blood in Stool: Finding blood in your stool can be alarming and should always be checked out by a doctor. It can be a sign of various intestinal issues, including inflammation, hemorrhoids, or even something more serious like colorectal cancer.

7. Persistent Nausea or Vomiting: While nausea and vomiting can be caused by many things, if they're persistent and accompanied by other digestive symptoms, it could be related to intestinal problems.

8. Food Intolerances: If you frequently experience discomfort or digestive issues after eating certain foods, it could indicate that your intestines are struggling to process those foods properly.

9. Bad Breath: Sometimes, intestinal issues can lead to bad breath that doesn't improve with regular oral hygiene. This can be due to problems like bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.

10. Skin Problems: In some cases, problems in the intestines can manifest on the skin, leading to conditions like acne, eczema, or rashes.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms regularly or if they're severe, it's important to see a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.