Care and recovery
I would like to understand my options
Use your Dow resources and tools to help you navigate treatment, receive quality care and improve your wellbeing.
Dow’s tools and resources are here when you need them for your digestive health.
Understand diagnosis and care for digestive conditions
Symptoms of digestive issues can vary greatly. Some might be mild and temporary, while others can be severe and chronic (long-lasting). It's important to remember that many digestive disorders are treatable, and early intervention can prevent more serious complications.
Common symptoms:
- Changes in bowel movements: This includes constipation, diarrhea, incontinence (lack of bowel control) or blood in the stool.
- Abdominal discomfort: Pain, bloating, cramps or a feeling of fullness.
- Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up.
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest or throat.
- Difficulty swallowing: Pain or discomfort when swallowing.
- Unexplained weight changes: Sudden weight gain or loss without a clear reason.
If you experience any of these symptoms regularly or notice any concerning changes in your digestion, it's important to consult your health care provider. Keeping track of your symptoms, their frequency and any potential triggers can be helpful when discussing your concerns with your doctor.
Diagnosis
Accurately diagnosing digestive disorders involves a thorough medical history, including your symptoms, frequency, severity and how long you’ve been experiencing them, as well as a physical exam. In some cases, additional diagnostic evaluations may be needed for an accurate diagnosis, including endoscopic procedures, imaging tests like CT scans and MRIs, lab tests and/or a colonoscopy.
Treatment
The treatment for a gastrointestinal disorder will vary depending on the specific condition and the severity of your symptoms. Often, the focus is on relieving symptoms and improving your quality of life. Here are some common approaches to treatment:
Lifestyle modifications
Simple changes to your daily habits can make a big difference:
- Eating a balanced diet that's rich in fiber and low in processed foods can improve digestion.
- Physical activity helps keep your digestive system functioning properly.
- Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of certain digestive problems.
- Finding healthy ways to manage stress can positively impact your gut health.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address structural abnormalities or severe complications.
Ongoing monitoring
Depending on your condition, regular follow-up appointments with your doctor may be needed to monitor your progress, manage any complications and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Medications
Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications, such as:
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid (for heartburn or acid reflux)
- Laxatives to relieve constipation
- Anti-diarrheal medications to reduce diarrhea
- Pain relievers to manage abdominal discomfort
If over-the-counter medications aren't effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger prescription medications, such as:
- Antibiotics to treat infections
- Immune system suppressors to reduce inflammation (for conditions like IBD)
- Prescription-strength pain relievers
Receive personalized care for your digestive health
Medical coverage
When you enroll in a Dow medical plan, you have access to comprehensive medical coverage with an out-of-pocket maximum that protects you from significant medical expenses, as well as best-in-class resources so you can feel confident in your treatment plan. Based on your medical plan selection, available resources may include specific nurse support, 24/7 nurse lines, telehealth services, weight management programs and more.
Contact your medical plan carrier using the number on the back of your ID card for details.
Prescription drug coverage
Prescription medications can be an important part of your treatment. Your prescription drug coverage may include certain prescription medications to help you manage symptoms if over-the-counter medications don’t work.
If you’re enrolled in an Aetna medical plan, you have access to prescription drug coverage through CVS. If you’re enrolled in one of the HMO plans, your prescription drug coverage is provided through the HMO. Call the number on the back of your ID card to learn more.
Aetna: Weight management reimbursement
Aetna helps you save money on your weight loss journey. From Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers to counseling with a registered dietitian, the program covers up to $1,000 in eligible weight management expenses at 100% with no deductible each year. Visit the Health Resources section of the Dow Benefits & Wellbeing Site to learn more.
Cigna: Virtual digestive health Center of Excellence
Cigna members who are 18 and older can access Oshi Health, a virtual digestive health Center of Excellence that brings together a multidisciplinary care team to help improve and control symptoms. Access Oshi Health in the myCigna.com directory under GI focused search terms.
Personify Health programs
The Transform for Weight Management and Transform for Prediabetes programs through Personify Health offer evidence-based solutions with proven effectiveness. Transform embraces sustainable and steady lifestyle modifications that last long after the program is complete. Each program includes virtual lessons and opportunities to communicate directly with a coach through your smartphone, tablet or computer, as well as devices to help track your progress. Access more information and get started through the Dow Wellbeing Portal.
Nurture your mental and emotional health
It’s natural to focus on the physical aspects of a health condition and the treatment. However, it’s important to remember that a health condition can have significant impacts on your emotional health. You have access to a wide range of benefits and resources through Dow to help you care for your emotional health alongside your physical health.
Find what you need, whether you’re looking for a boost, would like personal support or need immediate help, in the Dow mental health guide.
Did you know?
The Dow Family Health Centers offer convenient, affordable health care — including mental health care. Also, you have access to additional mental health virtual care options if you’re enrolled in an Aetna medical plan.