In brief

• Russian gastroenterologist Nurija Dianowa lists symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases that may occur without abdominal pain.
• As warning signs she includes bloating, irregular peristalsis, a feeling of fullness, belching, and skin changes.
• Medical consultation is advised, among other things, for blood in the stool, unexplained weight changes, or dyspepsia lasting longer than 4–6 weeks.
• This is the opinion of a single doctor, without cited data and without confirmation in Polish media.

Symptoms without pain

Digestive problems do not always begin with abdominal pain. So says Nurija Dianowa, a dietitian and gastroenterologist, executive director of the Russian center NIC „Zdrowe Odżywianie” (Врач назвала скрытые признаки болезней ЖКТ – radio1.ru) (Диетолог Дианова: Частая отрыжка и высыпания на коже могут указывать на проблемы с ЖКТ – ОСН – osnmedia.ru).

Signals requiring attention

According to the doctor, even mildly intensified symptoms may warrant attention. These include frequent bloating and gas, irregular peristalsis lasting for weeks, a feeling of fullness after a small portion of food, frequent belching, and changes on the skin.

When to see a doctor

According to her, urgent consultation is needed for persistent or worsening abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or its clearly black color. Unexplained changes in body weight, dyspepsia lasting longer than 4–6 weeks, symptoms of anemia, and constant tiredness or weakness should also be a concern. The doctor advises keeping a diary of symptoms and food intake, which may help the physician identify the necessary tests more quickly.

Diet in the doctor's opinion

According to Dianowa, digestive problems in most cases are linked to improper nutrition. She lists snacks, convenience foods, sweet carbonated drinks, and excess sugar, as well as excess red meat, cold cuts, and fried foods. In her view, these products harm the gut microbiota.

What cannot be verified

The message is based on the statement of a single doctor. She did not provide data or studies confirming her claims, and did not refer to any guidelines. These claims have no confirmation in Polish media. People with worrying symptoms should consult a doctor.