Medical Services

Malabsorption Syndromes – Conditions Causing Poor Nutrient Absorption, Like Lactose Intolerance

A collection of diseases known as malabsorption syndromes compromises the body's capacity to absorb vital nutrients, including carbs, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. These disorders could arise from structural defects, digestive enzyme deficits, or underlying illnesses compromising the small intestine. Typical reasons are lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease, pancreatic insufficiency, and coeliac disease.
Though the nutrient impact determines the symptoms, they usually include weight loss, persistent diarrhoea, bloating, gas, tiredness, and nutritional shortages. Lactose intolerance, for instance, results from a lactase deficiency, an enzyme needed to break down lactose, which causes stomach pain after eating dairy products. Gluten sets off an immunological response in coeliac disease that compromises the gut lining and reduces food absorption.
To find the underlying cause, diagnosis calls for endoscopic assessments, blood testing, bowel analysis, and breath tests. The particular issue will determine the treatment; it may call for dietary changes, enzyme supplements, or drugs to lower inflammation or assist digestion. Often important for preventing long-term deficits is nutritional support with vitamin and mineral supplements.
Effective control of malabsorption syndromes enhances quality of life and helps avoid problems including anaemia, osteoporosis, and child growth abnormalities. Maintaining the best health depends on early diagnosis and focused treatment.