Is Your Stomach Trying to Tell You Something? Understanding Persistent Digestive Symptoms in the UK

Are You Experiencing Ongoing Digestive Symptoms?

Many people in the UK grapple with stomach pain, bloating, or unexpected changes in bowel habits. Sometimes, those niggling digestive symptoms—like diarrhoea, cramping, or blood in your stool—are brushed off as being stress-related or due to a change in diet. But when symptoms persist, it can be worrying and disruptive to daily life.

Did you know?
Digestive concerns are among the top reasons for GP visits in the UK, according to NHS data.

What Causes Persistent Gut Symptoms?

Common causes include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Can cause bloating, pain, and altered bowel habits, but without gut inflammation.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis; these involve inflammation and often require ongoing medical care.
• Infections or food intolerances: Sometimes a short-term tummy bug or reaction to certain foods is to blame.

How Does the Faecal Calprotectin Test Work?

Calprotectin is a marker of inflammation in your gut. If you have digestive symptoms and are unsure whether it’s something serious, this test helps differentiate between IBS and potentially more serious conditions like IBD. A small stool sample, collected at home, is analysed in a laboratory. If calprotectin is high, it suggests underlying inflammation.

What Can You Do for Better Gut Health?

• Track your symptoms in a diary.
• Eat a varied, fibre-rich diet and stay hydrated.
• Manage stress, as it often impacts the gut.
• See your GP if you notice red flags (unexplained weight loss, blood in stool, or you’re over 50 with new symptoms).

When Should You Consider a Test?

If symptoms are lingering, if you have a family history of gut issues, or if your GP recommends it, consider using the Mayfield Clinic At-Home Faecal Calprotectin Test Kit. It’s discreet, easy to use, and results are provided online within five days. You can also book an in-person appointment with our GPs.

Take Control of Your Digestive Health

Don’t let gut worries linger. Understand your symptoms, and if you’re in doubt, act today:

• Order your home faecal calprotectin test kit now for peace of mind.
• Or book a face-to-face consultation to discuss in person.