Digestive health changes: When to seek medical care

It has been an eventful year, and if your gastrointestinal tract seems to have had a bumpy ride of its own, with bouts of heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation, this is a good moment to ask whether you are dealing with temporary symptoms or signs of something more serious or chronic.

Put a name to the problem

The first step in understanding gastrointestinal distress is identifying exactly what is wrong.

Heartburn. This fiery feeling in your chest is usually caused by stomach acid leaking upward into the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. It occurs when the ring of muscle that normally seals the junction temporarily loosens or stops working well. Heartburn can also bring a sore throat, a cough, or a metallic taste after meals.