Gastroenterology

Tests
5'-nucleotidase
5'-nucleotidase (5'-NT) is a protein produced by the liver. A test can be done to measure the amount of this protein in your blood.

Tests
ALP - blood test
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone. bile A blood test can be done to measure the level of ALP....

Tests
ALP isoenzyme test
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in many body tissues such as liver, bile ducts, bone, and intestine. There are several different structural forms of ALP called isoenzymes. The structure of...

Symptoms
Abdomen - swollen
A swollen abdomen is when your belly area is bigger than usual.

Tests
Abdominal CT scan
An abdominal CT scan is an imaging method. This test uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the belly area. CT stands for computed tomography.

Tests
Abdominal MRI scan
An abdominal magnetic resonance imaging scan is an imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The waves create pictures of the inside of the belly area. It does not use radiation (x-rays)...

Symptoms
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the belly (abdomen) feels full and tight. Your belly may look swollen (distended).

Special Topics
Abdominal girth
Abdominal girth is the measurement of the distance around the abdomen at a specific point. Measurement is most often made at the level of the belly button (navel). Abdominal girth is used to diagnose and...

Symptoms
Abdominal mass
An abdominal mass is swelling in one part of the belly area (abdomen).

Symptoms
Abdominal pain
Abdominal pain is pain that you feel anywhere between your chest and groin. This is often referred to as the stomach region or belly.

Symptoms
Abdominal pain - children under age 12
Almost all children have abdominal pain at one time or another. Abdominal pain is pain in the stomach or belly area. It can be anywhere between the chest and groin. Most of the time, it is not caused by...

Symptoms
Abdominal rigidity
Abdominal rigidity is stiffness of the muscles in the belly area, which can be felt when touched or pressed.

Symptoms
Abdominal sounds
Abdominal sounds are the noises made by the intestines.

Tests
Abdominal tap
An abdominal tap is used to remove fluid from the area between the belly wall and the spine. This space is called the abdominal cavity or peritoneal cavity.

Tests
Abdominal ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound is a type of imaging test. It is used to look at organs in the abdomen, including the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. The blood vessels that lead to some of these...

Diseases & Conditions
Abscess - abdomen or pelvis
An abdominal abscess is a pocket of infected fluid and pus located inside the belly (abdominal cavity). This type of abscess can be located near or inside the liver, pancreas, kidneys or other organs. There...

Diseases & Conditions
Achalasia
The tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach is the esophagus or food pipe. Achalasia makes it harder for the esophagus to move food into the stomach.

Diseases & Conditions
Acute cholecystitis
Acute cholecystitis is sudden swelling and irritation of the gallbladder. It causes severe belly pain.

Diseases & Conditions
Acute pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is sudden swelling and inflammation of the pancreas.

Tests
Alanine transaminase (ALT) blood test
The alanine transaminase (ALT) blood test measures the level of the enzyme ALT in the blood. enzyme

Tests
Albumin blood (serum) test
Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood. Albumin can also be measured in the urine. urine

In-depth Report
Alcohol use disorders - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of alcohol use disorder.

Diseases & Conditions
Alcoholic liver disease
Alcoholic liver disease is damage to the liver and its function due to alcohol abuse. alcohol abuse

Tests
Alpha fetoprotein
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by the liver and yolk sac of a developing baby during pregnancy. AFP levels go down soon after birth. It is likely that AFP has no normal function in adults...

Diseases & Conditions
Amebiasis
Amebiasis is an infection of the intestines. It is caused by the microscopic parasite Entamoeba histolytica. Entamoeba histolytica

Tests
Ammonia blood test
The ammonia test measures the level of ammonia in a blood sample.

Tests
Amylase - blood
Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates. It is made primarily in the pancreas and the glands that make saliva, and can be found at low levels in other parts of the body. When the pancreas is...

Tests
Amylase - urine
This is a test that measures the amount of amylase in urine. Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates. It is produced mainly in the pancreas and the glands that make saliva. enzyme Amylase may...

Diseases & Conditions
Angiodysplasia of the colon
Angiodysplasia of the colon (large intestine) is swollen, fragile blood vessels in the colon. These can result in bleeding and blood loss from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Angiodysplasia can also occur...

Diseases & Conditions
Annular pancreas
An annular pancreas is a ring of pancreatic tissue that encircles the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The normal position of the pancreas is next to, but not surrounding the duodenum....

Discharge Instructions
Anti-reflux surgery - discharge
Fundoplication - discharge; Nissen fundoplication - discharge; Belsey (Mark IV) fundoplication - discharge; Toupet fundoplication - discharge; Thal fundoplication - discharge; Hiatal hernia repair - discharge...

Tests
Antiparietal cell antibody test
An antiparietal cell antibody test is a blood test that looks for antibodies against the parietal cells of the stomach. The parietal cells make and release a substance called intrinsic factor that the body...

Diseases & Conditions
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a condition in which your appendix gets inflamed. The appendix is a small pouch attached to the end of the large intestine.

Diseases & Conditions
Ascariasis
Ascariasis is an infection with the parasitic roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides. Ascaris lumbricoides

Diseases & Conditions
Ascites
Ascites is the build-up of fluid in the space between the lining of the abdomen and abdominal organs.

Tests
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test
The aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test measures the level of the enzyme AST in the blood. enzyme

Diseases & Conditions
Autoimmune hepatitis
Autoimmune hepatitis causes inflammation of the liver. It occurs when immune cells mistake the liver's normal cells for harmful invaders and attack them.

Tests
Autoimmune liver disease panel
An autoimmune liver disease panel is a group of tests that is done to check for autoimmune liver disease. An autoimmune liver disease means that the body's immune system attacks the liver. These tests include...

Diseases & Conditions
Bacterial gastroenteritis
Bacterial gastroenteritis occurs when there is a bacterial infection of your stomach or intestines.

Diseases & Conditions
Barrett esophagus
Barrett esophagus (BE) is a disorder in which the lining of the esophagus is damaged by stomach acid leading to changes in the cells of the lining. The esophagus is also called the food pipe, and it connects...

Symptoms
Belching
Belching is the act of bringing up air from the stomach.

Diseases & Conditions
Beriberi
Beriberi is a disease in which the body does not have enough thiamine (vitamin B1). thiamine

Tests
Bernstein test
The Bernstein test is a method to reproduce symptoms of heartburn. It is most often done with other tests to measure esophageal function. heartburn esophageal function.

Diseases & Conditions
Bezoar
A bezoar is a ball of swallowed foreign material most often composed of hair or fiber. It collects in the stomach and fails to pass through the intestines.

Special Topics
Bile
Bile is a fluid that is made and released by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Bile helps with digestion. It breaks down fats into fatty acids, which can be taken into the body by the digestive tract...

Tests
Bile culture
Bile culture is a laboratory test to detect disease-causing germs (bacteria, viruses, or fungi) in the biliary system.

Diseases & Conditions
Bile duct obstruction
Bile duct obstruction is a blockage in the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.

Diseases & Conditions
Bile duct stricture
A bile duct stricture is an abnormal narrowing, most often of the common bile duct. This is a tube that moves bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is a substance that helps with digestion. bile

Special Topics
Biliary system

Tests
Bilirubin - urine
Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, which is a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. bile This article is about a lab test to measure the amount of bilirubin in the urine...

Tests
Bilirubin blood test
The bilirubin blood test measures the level of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. Bilirubin can also be measured with a urine test. urine...

Tests
Biopsy - biliary tract
A biliary tract biopsy is the removal of small amounts of cells and fluids from the duodenum, bile ducts, pancreas, or pancreatic duct. The sample is examined under a microscope.

Symptoms
Black or tarry stools
Black or tarry stools with a foul smell are a sign of a problem in the upper digestive tract. It most often indicates that there is bleeding in the stomach, small intestine, or right side of the colon....

Self-Care Instructions
Bland diet
Heartburn - bland diet; Nausea - bland diet; Peptic ulcer - bland diet

Diseases & Conditions
Bleeding esophageal varices
The esophagus (food pipe) is the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. Varices are enlarged veins that may be found in the esophagus in people with cirrhosis of the liver. These veins may rupture...

Symptoms
Bowel incontinence
Bowel incontinence is the loss of bowel control, causing you to unexpectedly pass stool. This can range from sometimes leaking a small amount of stool and passing gas, to not being able to control bowel...

Special Topics
Bowel retraining
A program of bowel retraining, Kegel exercises, or biofeedback therapy may be used by people to help improve their bowel movements. Kegel exercises biofeedback

Tests
Bowel transit time
Bowel transit time refers to how long it takes for the food to move from the mouth to the end of the intestine (anus). This article talks about the medical test used to determine bowel transit time using...

Tests
CEA blood test
The carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test measures the level of CEA in the blood. CEA is a protein normally found in the tissue of a developing baby in the womb. The blood level of this protein disappears...

Diseases & Conditions
CMV - gastroenteritis/colitis
CMV gastroenteritis/colitis is inflammation of the stomach or intestine due to infection with cytomegalovirus. This same virus can also cause: Lung infectionInfection in the back of the eyeInfections of...

Tests
CT angiography - abdomen and pelvis
CT angiography combines a CT scan with the injection of dye. This technique is able to create pictures of the blood vessels in your belly (abdomen) or pelvis area. CT stands for computed tomography.

Diseases & Conditions
Campylobacter infection
Campylobacter infection occurs in the small intestine from bacteria called Campylobacter jejuni. It is a type of bacterial food poisoning. Campylobacter jejuni

Tests
Campylobacter serology test
Campylobacter serology test is a blood test to look for antibodies to bacteria called campylobacter. antibodies

Tests
Capsule endoscopy
Endoscopy is a way of looking inside the body. Endoscopy is often done with a tube put into the body that the doctor can use to look inside. Endoscopy Another way to look inside is to put a camera in a...

Nutrition
Celiac disease - nutritional considerations
Celiac disease is an immune disorder passed down through families. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, or rye. It may also be found in some medicines. When a person with celiac disease eats or drinks...

Special Topics
Celiac disease - resources

Diseases & Conditions
Celiac disease – sprue
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage comes from a reaction to eating gluten. This is a substance that is found in wheat, rye, barley, and...

Diseases & Conditions
Chagas disease
Chagas disease is an illness caused by tiny parasites and spread by insects. The disease is common in South and Central America.

Self-Care Instructions
Changing your ostomy pouch
Ostomy - pouch change; Colostomy - pouch change

Diseases & Conditions
Cholangitis
Cholangitis is an infection of the bile ducts, the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestines. Bile is a liquid made by the liver that helps digest food. bile

Diseases & Conditions
Choledocholithiasis
Choledocholithiasis is the presence of at least one gallstone in the common bile duct. The stone may be made up of bile pigments or calcium and cholesterol salts. bile

Diseases & Conditions
Cholera
Cholera is a bacterial infection of the small intestine that causes a large amount of watery diarrhea.

Diseases & Conditions
Cholestasis
Cholestasis is any condition in which the flow of bile from the liver is slowed or blocked. bile

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic cholecystitis
Chronic cholecystitis is swelling and irritation of the gallbladder that continues over time. The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores bile that is made in the liver. Bile helps with...

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is swelling of the pancreas. Chronic pancreatitis is present when this problem does not heal or recurs and does not improve, gets worse over time, and leads to permanent damage.

Diseases & Conditions
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver and poor liver function. It is the last stage of chronic liver disease.

In-depth Report
Cirrhosis - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cirrhosis.

Discharge Instructions
Cirrhosis - discharge
Liver failure - discharge; Liver cirrhosis - discharge

Self-Care Instructions
Clear liquid diet
Surgery - clear liquid diet; Medical test - clear liquid diet

Diseases & Conditions
Colitis
Colitis is swelling (inflammation) of the large intestine (colon).

In-depth Report
Colon and rectal cancers - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of colorectal cancer.

Special Topics
Colon cancer screening
Colon cancer screening can detect polyps and early cancers in the large intestine. This type of screening can find problems that can be treated before cancer develops or spreads. Regular screenings may...

Tests
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an exam that views the inside of the colon (large intestine) and rectum, using a tool called a colonoscope. The colonoscope has a small camera attached to a flexible tube that can reach...

Discharge Instructions
Colonoscopy discharge
Lower endoscopy

Diseases & Conditions
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum (end of the colon). It is also sometimes simply called colon cancer. In the United States, colorectal cancer is one of...

Diseases & Conditions
Colorectal polyps
A colorectal polyp is a growth on the lining of the colon or rectum.

Surgery
Colostomy
Colostomy is a surgical procedure that brings one end of the large intestine out through an opening (stoma) made in the abdominal wall. Stools moving through the intestine drain through the stoma into a...

Self-Care Instructions
Constipation - self-care

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Constipation - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about constipation

Symptoms
Constipation in infants and children
Constipation in infants and children means they have hard stools or have problems passing stools. A child may have pain while passing stools or may be unable to have a bowel movement after straining or...

Diseases & Conditions
Crohn disease
Crohn disease is a disease where parts of the digestive tract become inflamed. It most often involves the lower end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine.It may also occur in any...

In-depth Report
Crohn disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Crohn disease.

Discharge Instructions
Crohn disease - children - discharge
Inflammatory bowel disease in children - Crohn disease; IBD in children - Crohn disease; Regional enteritis - children; Ileitis - children; Granulomatous ileocolitis - children; Colitis in children; CD...

Discharge Instructions
Crohn disease - discharge
Inflammatory bowel disease - Crohn disease - discharge; Regional enteritis - discharge; Ileitis - discharge; Granulomatous ileocolitis - discharge; Colitis - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Cryptosporidium enteritis
Cryptosporidium enteritis is an infection of the small intestine that causes diarrhea. The parasite cryptosporidium causes this infection. diarrhea

Tests
Culture - colonic tissue
A colonic tissue culture is a lab test to check for the cause of disease. The sample of tissue for the test is taken from the large intestine during a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.

Tests
Culture - duodenal tissue
A duodenal tissue culture is a laboratory exam to check a piece of tissue from the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). The test is to look for organisms that cause infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Cysticercosis
Cysticercosis is an infection by a parasite called Taenia solium (T solium). It is a pork tapeworm that creates cysts in different areas of the body. Taenia solium T solium cysts

Tests
D-xylose absorption
D-xylose absorption is a laboratory test to check how well the intestines absorb a simple sugar (D-xylose). The test helps detect if nutrients are being properly absorbed.

Self-Care Instructions
Daily bowel care program
Incontinence - care; Dysfunctional bowel - care; Neurogenic bowel - care

Special Topics
Dialysis - hemodialysis
Artificial kidneys - hemodialysis; Dialysis; Renal replacement therapy - hemodialysis; End-stage renal disease - hemodialysis; Kidney failure - hemodialysis; Renal failure - hemodialysis; Chronic kidney...

Special Topics
Dialysis centers - what to expect
Artificial kidneys - dialysis centers; Dialysis - what to expect; Renal replacement therapy - dialysis centers; End-stage renal disease - dialysis centers; Kidney failure - dialysis centers; Renal failure...

Symptoms
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is when you pass loose or watery stool.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Diarrhea - what to ask your doctor - child
What to ask your doctor about diarrhea - child; Loose stools - what to ask your doctor - child

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Diarrhea - what to ask your health care provider - adult
What to ask your health care provider about diarrhea - adult; Loose stools - what to ask your health care provider - adult

Nutrition
Diet - liver disease
Some people with liver disease must eat a special diet. This diet helps the liver function and protects it from working too hard. liver disease

Diseases & Conditions
Dificultad con la deglución
Es la sensación de que el alimento sólido o líquido se atora en la garganta o en cualquier punto antes de que este ingrese al estómago. Este problema también se denomina disfagia.

Special Topics
Digestive diseases
Digestive diseases are disorders of the digestive tract, which is sometimes called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In digestion, food and drink are broken down into small parts (called nutrients) that...

Tests
Digital rectal exam
A digital rectal exam is an exam of the lower rectum. Your health care provider uses a gloved, lubricated finger to check for any abnormal findings.

Diseases & Conditions
Diverticulitis
Diverticula are small, bulging sacs or pouches that form on the inner wall of the intestine. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected. Most often, these pouches are in the lower...

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Diverticulitis - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about diverticulitis

Discharge Instructions
Diverticulitis and diverticulosis - discharge
Diverticular disease - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis occurs when small, bulging sacs or pouches form on the inner wall of the intestine. These sacs are called diverticula. Most often, these pouches form in the large intestine (colon). They...

Diseases & Conditions
Drug-induced diarrhea
Drug-induced diarrhea is loose, watery stools that occur when you take certain medicines. diarrhea

Diseases & Conditions
Drug-induced liver injury
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an injury of the liver that may occur when you take certain medicines. Other types of liver injury include: Viral hepatitisAlcoholic hepatitisAutoimmune hepatitisIron...

Diseases & Conditions
Dubin-Johnson syndrome
Dubin-Johnson syndrome (DJS) is a disorder passed down through families (inherited). In this condition, you may have mild jaundice throughout life.

Diseases & Conditions
Duodenal atresia
Duodenal atresia is a condition in which the first part of the small bowel (the duodenum) has not developed properly. It is not open and does not allow the passage of stomach contents. duodenum

Special Topics
Duodenum
The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine. It is located between the stomach and the middle part of the small intestine, or jejunum. After foods mix with stomach acid, they move into the duodenum...

Diseases & Conditions
E coli enteritis
E coli enteritis is swelling (inflammation) of the small intestine from Escherichia coli (E coli) bacteria. It is the most common cause of travelers' diarrhea. E coli Escherichia coli E coli

Tests
EGD - esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a test to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine (the duodenum). duodenum

Discharge Instructions
EGD discharge
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy - discharge; Upper endoscopy - discharge; Gastroscopy - discharge

Surgery
ERCP
ERCP is short for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. It is a procedure that looks at the bile and pancreatic ducts. It is done through an endoscope. Bile ducts are the tubes that carry bile...

Diseases & Conditions
Encopresis
If a child over 4 years of age has been toilet trained, and still passes stool and soils clothes, it is called encopresis. The child may or may not be doing this on purpose.

Tests
Endoscopic ultrasound
Endoscopic ultrasound is a type of imaging test. It is used to see organs in and near the digestive tract.

Tests
Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a way of looking inside the body using a flexible tube that has a small camera and light on the end of it. This instrument is called an endoscope. Small instruments can be inserted through...

Symptoms
Enlarged liver
Enlarged liver refers to swelling of the liver beyond its normal size. Hepatomegaly is another word to describe this problem. If both the liver and spleen are enlarged, it is called hepatosplenomegaly....

Self-Care Instructions
Enteral nutrition - child - managing problems

Diseases & Conditions
Enteritis
Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine.

Tests
Enteroscopy
Enteroscopy is a procedure used to examine the small intestine (small bowel).

Diseases & Conditions
Eosinophilic esophagitis
Eosinophilic esophagitis involves a buildup of a specific type of white blood cells, called eosinophils, in the lining of your esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your...

Diseases & Conditions
Esophageal atresia
Esophageal atresia is a birth defect in which the esophagus does not develop properly. The esophagus is the tube that normally carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Tests
Esophageal culture
Esophageal culture is a laboratory test that checks for infection-causing germs (bacteria, viruses, or fungi) in a sample of tissue from the esophagus.

Tests
Esophageal manometry
Esophageal manometry is a test to measure how well the esophagus is working.

Tests
Esophageal pH monitoring
Esophageal pH monitoring is a test that measures how often stomach acid enters the tube that leads from the mouth to the stomach (called the esophagus). The test also measures how long the acid stays there...

Diseases & Conditions
Esophageal perforation
An esophageal perforation is a hole in the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube food passes through as it goes from the mouth to the stomach.

Diseases & Conditions
Esophageal spasm
Esophageal spasms are abnormal contractions of the muscles in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. These spasms do not move food effectively to the stomach. spasms

Diseases & Conditions
Esophageal stricture - benign
Benign esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). It causes swallowing difficulties. Benign means that it is not caused by cancer of the esophagus. cancer...

Diseases & Conditions
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus becomes swollen, inflamed, or irritated. The esophagus is the tube that leads from your mouth to the stomach. It is also called the food pipe...

Tests
Fecal culture
A fecal culture is a lab test to find organisms in the stool (feces) that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and disease.

Tests
Fecal fat
The fecal fat test measures the amount of fat in the stool. This can help gauge the percentage of dietary fat that the body does not absorb.

Special Topics
Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
Immunochemical fecal occult blood test; iFOBT; Colon cancer screening - FIT

Diseases & Conditions
Fecal impaction
A fecal impaction is a large lump of dry, hard stool that stays stuck in the rectum. It is most often seen in people who are constipated for a long time.

Surgery
Fecal microbiota transplant
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) helps to replace some of the "bad" bacteria of your colon with "good" bacteria. The procedure helps to restore the good bacteria that have been killed off or limited...

Tests
Fecal smear
Fecal smear is a laboratory test of a stool sample. This test is done to check for bacteria and parasites. Presence of organisms in stool shows diseases in the digestive tract.

Special Topics
Feeding tube - infants
A feeding tube is a small, soft, plastic tube placed through the nose (NG) or mouth (OG) into the stomach. These tubes are used to provide feedings and medicines into the stomach until the baby can take...

Surgery
Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy
A gastrostomy feeding tube (G-tube) insertion is the placement of a feeding tube through the skin and the stomach wall. It goes directly into the stomach.

Diseases & Conditions
Femoral hernia
A hernia occurs when the contents of the abdomen push through a weak point or tear in the muscle wall of the belly. This layer of muscle holds the abdominal organs in place. hernia A femoral hernia is a...

Nutrition
Fiber
Fiber is a substance found in plants. Dietary fiber, which is the type of fiber you can eat, is found in fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is an important part of a healthy diet.

Diseases & Conditions
Fish tapeworm infection
Fish tapeworm infection is an intestinal infection with a parasite found in fish.

Tests
Flushable reagent stool blood test
Flushable reagent stool blood test is an at-home test to detect invisible blood in the stool.

Diseases & Conditions
Food poisoning
Food poisoning occurs when you swallow food or water that contains bacteria, parasites, viruses, or the toxins made by these germs. Most cases are caused by common bacteria such as staphylococcus or E coli...

Special Topics
Food poisoning prevention

Self-Care Instructions
Full liquid diet
Surgery - full liquid diet; Medical test - full liquid diet

Tests
Gallbladder radionuclide scan
Gallbladder radionuclide scan is a test that uses radioactive material to check gallbladder function. It is also used to look for bile duct blockage or leak.

Discharge Instructions
Gallbladder removal - laparoscopic - discharge
Cholecystectomy laparoscopic - discharge; Cholelithiasis - laparoscopic discharge; Biliary calculus - laparoscopic discharge; Gallstones - laparoscopic discharge; Cholecystitis - laparoscopic discharge

Discharge Instructions
Gallbladder removal - open - discharge
Cholelithiasis - open discharge; Biliary calculus - open discharge; Gallstones - open discharge; Cholecystitis - open discharge; Cholecystectomy - open discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Gallstones
Gallstones are hard deposits that form inside the gallbladder. These may be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.

Discharge Instructions
Gallstones - discharge
Chronic cholecystitis - discharge; Dysfunctional gallbladder - discharge; Choledocholithiasis - discharge; Cholelithiasis - discharge; Acute cholecystitis

In-depth Report
Gallstones and gallbladder disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gallstones.

Tests
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test
The gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test measures the level of the enzyme GGT in the blood. enzyme

Symptoms
Gas – flatulence
Gas is air in the intestine that is passed through the rectum. Air that moves from the digestive tract through the mouth is called belching. belching Gas is also called flatus or flatulence.

Tests
Gastric culture
Gastric culture is a test to check a child's stomach contents for the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). tuberculosis

Tests
Gastric suction
Gastric suction is a procedure to empty the contents of your stomach.

Diseases & Conditions
Gastritis
Gastritis occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or swollen. Gastritis may last for only a short time (acute gastritis) or it may linger for months to years (chronic gastritis).

Discharge Instructions
Gastroesophageal reflux - discharge
Peptic esophagitis - discharge; Reflux esophagitis - discharge; GERD - discharge; Heartburn - chronic - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which the stomach contents leak backward from the stomach into the esophagus (food pipe). Food travels from your mouth to the stomach through your...

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease - children
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs when the stomach contents leak backwards from the stomach into the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). This is also called reflux. GER can irritate the...

In-depth Report
Gastroesophageal reflux disease and heartburn - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of GERD.

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux in infants
Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach contents leak backward from the stomach into the esophagus. This causes "spitting up" in infants. spitting up

Symptoms
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding refers to any bleeding that starts in the gastrointestinal tract. Bleeding may come from any site along the GI tract, but is often divided into: Upper GI bleeding: The upper...

Special Topics
Gastrointestinal disorders - resources

Diseases & Conditions
Gastrointestinal fistula
A gastrointestinal fistula is an abnormal opening in the stomach or intestines that allows the contents to leak to another part of the body. Leaks that go through to a part of the intestines are called...

Diseases & Conditions
Gastrointestinal perforation
A perforation is a hole that develops through the wall of a body organ. This problem may occur in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, or gallbladder.

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition that reduces the ability of the stomach to empty its contents. It does not involve a blockage (obstruction).

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroschisis
Gastroschisis is a birth defect in which an infant's intestines are outside of the body because of a hole in the abdominal wall.

Self-Care Instructions
Gastrostomy feeding tube - bolus
Feeding - gastrostomy tube - bolus; G-tube - bolus; Gastrostomy button - bolus; Bard Button - bolus; MIC-KEY - bolus

Discharge Instructions
Gastrostomy feeding tube - pump - child
PEG tube feeding; PEG tube care; Feeding - gastrostomy tube - pump; G-tube - pump; Gastrostomy button - pump; Bard Button - pump; MIC-KEY - pump

Diseases & Conditions
Giardia infection
Giardia, or giardiasis, is a parasitic infection of the small intestine. A tiny parasite called Giardia lamblia causes it. Giardia lamblia

Diseases & Conditions
Gilbert syndrome
Gilbert syndrome is a common disorder passed down through families. It affects the way bilirubin is processed by the liver, and may cause the skin to take on a yellow color (jaundice) at times. jaundice

Special Topics
Glucuronyl transferase
Glucuronyl transferase is a liver enzyme. It changes bilirubin into a form that can be removed from the body through the bile. It also changes some hormones, medicines, and toxins into non-harmful products...

Discharge Instructions
H2 blockers
Peptic ulcer disease - H2 blockers; PUD - H2 blockers; Gastroesophageal reflux - H2 blockers; GERD - H2 blockers

Symptoms
Heartburn
Heartburn is a painful burning feeling just below or behind the breastbone. Most of the time, it comes from the esophagus. The pain often rises in your chest from your stomach. It may also spread to your...

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Heartburn - what to ask your provider
What to ask your provider about heartburn and reflux; Reflux - what to ask your provider; GERD - what to ask your provider; Gastroesophageal reflux disease - what to ask your provider

Diseases & Conditions
Helicobacter pylori infection
Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach. It is very common, affecting about two thirds of the world's population. H pylori infection is the most common cause of peptic...

Diseases & Conditions
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a condition in which there is too much iron in the body. It is also called iron overload.

Self-Care Instructions
Hemodialysis access - self care
Kidney failure - chronic-hemodialysis access; Renal failure - chronic-hemodialysis access; Chronic renal insufficiency - hemodialysis access; Chronic kidney failure - hemodialysis access; Chronic renal...

Discharge Instructions
Hemorrhoid removal - discharge
Hemorrhoidectomy - discharge; Hemorrhoid surgery - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower part of the rectum.

Special Topics
Hepatic
The term "hepatic" refers to the liver. For example, the hepatic duct drains bile from the liver.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatic hemangioma
A hepatic hemangioma is a liver mass made of widened (dilated) blood vessels. It is not cancerous.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatic ischemia
Hepatic ischemia is a condition in which the liver does not get enough blood or oxygen. This causes injury to liver cells.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatic vein obstruction (Budd-Chiari)
Hepatic vein obstruction is a blockage of the hepatic vein, which carries blood away from the liver. hepatic

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is swelling and inflammation of the liver.

In-depth Report
Hepatitis - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of viral hepatitis.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the liver from the hepatitis A virus.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis A - children
Hepatitis A in children is swelling and inflamed tissue of the liver due to the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A is the most common type of hepatitis in children.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of the liver due to infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Other types of viral hepatitis include hepatitis A, hepatitis C, hepatitis D, and hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis B - children
Hepatitis B in children is swelling and inflamed tissue of the liver due to infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Other common hepatitis virus infections include hepatitis A and hepatitis C. hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral disease that leads to swelling (inflammation) of the liver. Other types of viral hepatitis include: Hepatitis AHepatitis BHepatitis DHepatitis E Hepatitis A Hepatitis A Hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis C - children
Hepatitis C in children is inflammation of tissue of the liver. It occurs due to infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Other common hepatitis virus infections include hepatitis A and hepatitis B. hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis D (Delta agent)
Hepatitis D is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis D virus (previously called the Delta agent). It causes symptoms only in people who also have hepatitis B infection. hepatitis B

Tests
Hepatitis virus panel
The hepatitis virus panel is a series of blood tests used to detect current or past infection by hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C. It can screen blood samples for more than one kind of hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatocerebral degeneration
Hepatocerebral degeneration is a brain disorder that occurs in people with liver damage.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatorenal syndrome
Hepatorenal syndrome is a condition in which there is progressive kidney failure that occurs in a person with cirrhosis of the liver. It is a serious complication that can lead to death. cirrhosis

Diseases & Conditions
Hiatal hernia
Hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach extends through an opening of the diaphragm into the chest. The diaphragm is the sheet of muscle that divides the chest from the abdomen.

Self-Care Instructions
High-fiber foods
Dietary fiber - self-care; Constipation - fiber

Diseases & Conditions
Hirschsprung disease
Hirschsprung disease causes a blockage of the large intestine. It occurs due to poor muscle movement in the bowel. It is a congenital condition, which means it is present from birth.

Diseases & Conditions
Hookworm infection
Hookworm infection is caused by roundworms. The disease affects the small intestine and lungs.

Diseases & Conditions
Hypersplenism
Hypersplenism is an overactive spleen. The spleen is an organ found in the upper left side of your abdomen. The spleen helps filter old and damaged cells from your bloodstream. If your spleen is overactive...

Self-Care Instructions
Ileostomy - caring for your stoma
Standard ileostomy - stoma care; Brooke ileostomy - stoma care; Continent ileostomy - stoma care; Abdominal pouch - stoma care; End ileostomy - stoma care; Ostomy - stoma care; Crohn's disease - stoma care...

Self-Care Instructions
Ileostomy - changing your pouch
Standard ileostomy - pouch change; Brooke ileostomy - pouch change; Continent ileostomy - changing; Abdominal pouch changing; End ileostomy - pouch change; Ostomy - pouch change; Inflammatory bowel disease...

Discharge Instructions
Ileostomy - discharge
Standard ileostomy - discharge; Brooke ileostomy - discharge; Continent ileostomy - discharge; Abdominal pouch - discharge; End ileostomy - discharge; Ostomy - discharge; Crohn's disease - ileostomy discharge...

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Ileostomy - what to ask your doctor
Ostomy - what to ask your doctor; What to ask your doctor about ileostomy or colostomy; Colostomy - what to ask your doctor

Self-Care Instructions
Ileostomy and your child
Standard ileostomy and your child; Brooke ileostomy and your child; Continent ileostomy and your child; Abdominal pouch and your child; End ileostomy and your child; Ostomy and your child; Inflammatory...

Self-Care Instructions
Ileostomy and your diet
Standard ileostomy - diet; Brooke ileostomy - diet; Continent ileostomy - diet; Abdominal pouch - diet; End ileostomy - diet; Ostomy - diet; Inflammatory bowel disease - ileostomy and your diet; Crohn disease...

Diseases & Conditions
Imperforate anus
Imperforate anus is a defect in which the opening to the anus is missing or blocked. The anus is the opening to the rectum through which stools leave the body. This is present from birth (congenital).

Symptoms
Indigestion
Indigestion (dyspepsia) is a mild discomfort in the upper belly or abdomen. It often occurs during or right after eating. It may feel like: Heat, burning, or pain in the area between the navel and the lower...

Diseases & Conditions
Infectious esophagitis
Esophagitis is a term for any inflammation, irritation, or swelling of the esophagus. This is the tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Infectious esophagitis is an infection...

Diseases & Conditions
Intestinal leiomyoma
A leiomyoma is a benign tumor made up mostly of smooth muscle cells. It is called an intestinal leiomyoma when the tumor is located in the intestinal tract. Most often, these tumors cause no symptoms. They...

Diseases & Conditions
Intestinal obstruction and Ileus
Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the bowel. The contents of the intestine cannot pass through it.

Surgery
Intestinal obstruction repair
Intestinal obstruction repair is surgery to relieve a bowel obstruction. A bowel obstruction occurs when the contents of the intestines cannot pass through and exit the body. A complete obstruction is a...

Diseases & Conditions
Intestinal pseudo-obstruction
Intestinal pseudo-obstruction is a condition in which there are symptoms of blockage of the intestine (bowels) without any physical blockage.

Diseases & Conditions
Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that leads to pain in abdomen and changes in bowel movements. IBS is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Discharge Instructions
Irritable bowel syndrome - aftercare
IBS; Mucus colitis; IBS-D; IBS-C

Diseases & Conditions
Jaundice
Jaundice is a yellow color of the skin, mucus membranes, or eyes. The yellow coloring comes from bilirubin, a byproduct of old red blood cells. Jaundice can be a symptom of several health problems.

Special Topics
Jaundice causes
Jaundice is a yellow color in the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes. The yellow color comes from bilirubin, a byproduct of your body processing old red blood cells. Jaundice is often a sign of a disease....

Self-Care Instructions
Jejunostomy feeding tube
Feeding - jejunostomy tube; G-J tube; J-tube; Jejunum tube

Diseases & Conditions
Kwashiorkor
Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition that occurs when there is not enough protein in the diet. malnutrition protein

Diseases & Conditions
Lactose intolerance
Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products. An enzyme called lactase is needed by the body to digest lactose. Lactose intolerance develops when the small intestine does not make enough...

Tests
Lactose tolerance tests
Lactose tolerance tests measure the ability of your intestines to break down a type of sugar called lactose. This sugar is found in milk and other dairy products. If your body cannot break down this sugar...

Tests
Leucine aminopeptidase - urine
Leucine aminopeptidase is a type of protein called an enzyme. It is normally found in liver cells and cells of the small intestine. This test is used to measure how much of this protein appears in your...

Tests
Leucine aminopeptidase blood test
The leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) test measures how much of this enzyme is in your blood. enzyme Your urine can also be checked for LAP. urine

Tests
Lipase test
Lipase is a protein (enzyme) released by the pancreas into the small intestine. It helps the body absorb fat. This test is used to measure the amount of lipase in the blood. enzyme

Tests
Liver biopsy
A liver biopsy is a test that takes a sample of tissue from the liver for examination. biopsy

Diseases & Conditions
Liver cancer - hepatocellular carcinoma
Hepatocellular carcinoma is cancer that starts in the liver.

Diseases & Conditions
Liver disease
The term "liver disease" applies to many conditions that stop the liver from working or prevent it from functioning well. Abdominal pain or swelling, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or abnormal...

Special Topics
Liver disease - resources

Tests
Liver function tests
Liver function tests are common tests that are used to see how well the liver is working. Tests include: AlbuminAlpha-1 antitrypsinAlkaline phosphatase (ALP)Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)Aspartate aminotransferase...

Self-Care Instructions
Living with your ileostomy
Standard ileostomy - living with; Brooke ileostomy - living with; Continent ileostomy - living with; Abdominal pouch - living with; End ileostomy - living with; Ostomy - living with; Crohn disease - living...

Diseases & Conditions
Loss of brain function - liver disease
Loss of brain function occurs when the liver is unable to remove toxins from the blood.  This is called hepatic encephalopathy (HE). This problem may occur suddenly or it may develop slowly over time. ...

Self-Care Instructions
Low FODMAP diet
Irritable bowel syndrome - low FODMAP diet

Self-Care Instructions
Low-fiber diet
Fiber restricted diet; Crohn disease - low fiber diet; Ulcerative colitis - low fiber diet; Surgery - low fiber diet

Diseases & Conditions
Lower esophageal ring
A lower esophageal ring is an abnormal ring of tissue that forms where the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) and stomach meet.

Diseases & Conditions
Macroamylasemia
Macroamylasemia is the presence of an abnormal substance called macroamylase in the blood.

Diseases & Conditions
Malabsorption
Malabsorption involves problems with the body's ability to take in (absorb) nutrients from food.

Diseases & Conditions
Mallory-Weiss tear
A Mallory-Weiss tear occurs in the mucous membrane of the lower part of the esophagus or upper part of the stomach, near where they join. The tear may bleed. mucous membrane

Diseases & Conditions
Meckel diverticulum
A Meckel diverticulum is a pouch on the wall of the lower part of the small intestine that is present at birth (congenital). The diverticulum may contain tissue similar to that of the stomach or pancreas...

Diseases & Conditions
Mesenteric artery ischemia
Mesenteric artery ischemia occurs when there is a narrowing or blockage of one or more of the three major arteries that supply the small and large intestines. These are called the mesenteric arteries.

Diseases & Conditions
Mesenteric venous thrombosis
Mesenteric venous thrombosis (MVT) is a blood clot in one or more of the major veins that drain blood from the intestine. The superior mesenteric vein is most commonly involved. blood clot

Diseases & Conditions
Mucormycosis
Mucormycosis is a fungal infection of the sinuses, brain, or lungs. It occurs in some people with a weakened immune system.

Self-Care Instructions
Nasogastric feeding tube
Feeding - nasogastric tube; NG tube; Bolus feeding; Continuous pump feeding; Gavage tube

Symptoms
Nausea and vomiting – adults
Nausea is feeling an urge to vomit. It is often called "being sick to your stomach." Vomiting or throwing-up forces the contents of the stomach up through the food pipe (esophagus) and out of the mouth...

Diseases & Conditions
Necrotizing enterocolitis
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the death of tissue in the intestine. It occurs most often in premature or sick babies.

Diseases & Conditions
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the buildup of fat in the liver that is not caused by drinking too much alcohol. People who have it do not have a history of heavy drinking. NAFLD is usually...

Diseases & Conditions
Omphalocele
An omphalocele is a birth defect in which an infant's intestine or other abdominal organs are outside of the body because of a hole in the belly button (navel) area. The intestines are covered only by a...

Discharge Instructions
PEG tube insertion - discharge
Gastrostomy tube insertion-discharge; G-tube insertion-discharge; PEG tube insertion-discharge; Stomach tube insertion-discharge; Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion-discharge

Symptoms
Painful swallowing
Painful swallowing is any pain or discomfort while swallowing. You may feel it high in the neck or lower down behind the breastbone. Most often, the pain feels like a strong sensation of squeezing or burning...

Diseases & Conditions
Pancreas divisum
Pancreas divisum is a birth defect in which parts of the pancreas do not join together. The pancreas is a long, flat organ located between the stomach and spine. It helps in food digestion.

Diseases & Conditions
Pancreatic abscess
A pancreatic abscess is an area filled with pus within the pancreas.

Diseases & Conditions
Pancreatic pseudocyst
A pancreatic pseudocyst is a fluid-filled sac in the abdomen that arises from the pancreas. It may also contain tissue from the pancreas, enzymes, and blood.

Diseases & Conditions
Pancreatitis - children
Pancreatitis in children, as in adults, occurs when the pancreas becomes swollen and inflamed.

Discharge Instructions
Pancreatitis - discharge
Chronic pancreatitis - discharge; Pancreatitis - chronic - discharge; Pancreatic insufficiency - discharge; Acute pancreatitis - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Pellagra
Pellagra is a disease that occurs when a person does not get enough niacin (one of the B complex vitamins) or tryptophan (an amino acid). niacin tryptophan

Diseases & Conditions
Peptic ulcer
A peptic ulcer is an open sore or raw area in the lining of the stomach or intestine. There are two types of peptic ulcers: Gastric ulcer -- occurs in the stomachDuodenal ulcer -- occurs in the first part...

Discharge Instructions
Peptic ulcer disease - discharge
Ulcer - peptic - discharge; Ulcer - duodenal - discharge; Ulcer - gastric - discharge; Duodenal ulcer - discharge; Gastric ulcer - discharge; Dyspepsia - ulcer - discharge; Peptic ulcer discharge

In-depth Report
Peptic ulcers - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of stomach and gastrointestinal (GI) ulcers.

Tests
Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram
A percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram (PTC) is an x-ray of the bile ducts. These are the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. x-ray

Special Topics
Peristalsis
Peristalsis is a series of muscle contractions. These contractions occur in your digestive tract. Peristalsis is also seen in the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. Peristalsis is an automatic...

Tests
Peritoneal fluid analysis
Peritoneal fluid analysis is a lab test. It is done to look at fluid that has built up in the space in the abdomen around the internal organs. This area is called the peritoneal space. The condition is...

Tests
Peritoneal fluid culture
Peritoneal fluid culture is a laboratory test performed on a sample of peritoneal fluid. It is done to detect bacteria or fungi that cause infection (peritonitis). peritonitis Peritoneal fluid is the fluid...

Diseases & Conditions
Peritonitis - secondary
The peritoneum is the thin tissue that lines the inner wall of the abdomen and covers most of the organs in the abdomen. Peritonitis is present when this tissue becomes inflamed or infected. Secondary peritonitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Peritonitis - spontaneous bacterial
The peritoneum is the thin tissue that lines the inner wall of the abdomen and covers most of the organs in the abdomen. Peritonitis is present when this tissue becomes inflamed or infected. Spontaneous...

Diseases & Conditions
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare disorder in which growths called polyps form in the intestines. A person with PJS has a high risk for developing certain cancers.

Tests
Pharmacogenetic testing
Pharmacogenetic testing provides information about your genes and how they control your response to certain medicines. Your genes can affect the desired result of a drug. Your provider can use the information...

Special Topics
Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genes affect the way medicines work in a person. Your health care provider can use the information from pharmacogenetic testing to prescribe medicines that will work...

Symptoms
Pilonidal sinus disease
Pilonidal sinus disease is an inflammatory condition involving the hair follicles that can occur anywhere along the crease between the buttocks, which runs from the bone at the bottom of the spine (sacrum...

Diseases & Conditions
Plummer-Vinson syndrome
Plummer-Vinson syndrome is a condition that can occur in people with long-term (chronic) iron deficiency anemia. People with this condition have problems swallowing due to small, thin growths of tissue...

Symptoms
Point tenderness - abdomen
Abdominal point tenderness is the pain you feel when pressure is placed over a certain part of the belly area (abdomen).

Tests
Polyp biopsy
A polyp biopsy is a test that takes a sample of, or removes polyps (abnormal growths) for examination. biopsy

Surgery
Portacaval shunting
Portacaval shunting is a surgical treatment to create new connections between two blood vessels in your abdomen. It is used to treat people who have severe liver problems.

Special Topics
Potbellies and toddlers

Special Topics
Preventing food poisoning
To prevent food poisoning, take the following steps when preparing food: food poisoning Carefully wash your hands often, and always before cooking or cleaning. Always wash them again after touching raw...

Self-Care Instructions
Preventing hepatitis A

Self-Care Instructions
Preventing hepatitis B or C

Diseases & Conditions
Primary biliary cirrhosis
The bile ducts are tubes that move bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is a substance that helps with digestion. All of the bile ducts together are called the biliary tract. bile When the bile...

Diseases & Conditions
Proctitis
Proctitis is an inflammation of the rectum. It can cause discomfort, bleeding, and the discharge of mucus or pus.

Tests
Protein electrophoresis - serum
This lab test measures the types of protein in the fluid (serum) part of a blood sample. This fluid is called serum.

Diseases & Conditions
Protein-losing enteropathy
Protein-losing enteropathy is an abnormal loss of protein from the digestive tract. It can also refer to the inability of the digestive tract to absorb proteins.

Discharge Instructions
Proton pump inhibitors
PPIs

Diseases & Conditions
Pseudomembranous colitis
Pseudomembranous colitis refers to swelling or inflammation of the large intestine (colon) due to an overgrowth of Clostridioides difficile (C difficile) bacteria. Clostridioides difficile C difficile This...

Diseases & Conditions
Radiation enteritis
Radiation enteritis is damage to the lining of the intestines (bowels) caused by radiation therapy, which is used for some types of cancer treatment. enteritis radiation therapy

Symptoms
Rectal bleeding
Rectal bleeding is when blood passes from the rectum or anus. Bleeding may be noted on the stool or be seen as blood on toilet paper or in the toilet. The blood may be bright red. The term "hematochezia...

Tests
Rectal culture
Rectal culture is a lab test to identify bacteria and other germs in the rectum that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and disease.

Diseases & Conditions
Rectal prolapse
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum sags and comes through the anal opening.

Tests
Rotavirus antigen test
The rotavirus antigen test detects rotavirus in the feces. This is the most common cause of infectious diarrhea in children. diarrhea

Diseases & Conditions
Rumination disorder
Rumination disorder is a condition in which a person keeps bringing up food from the stomach into the mouth (regurgitation) and rechewing the food.

Diseases & Conditions
Salmonella enterocolitis
Salmonella enterocolitis is a bacterial infection in the lining of the small intestine that is caused by Salmonella bacteria. It is a type of food poisoning.

Symptoms
Satiety - early
Satiety is the satisfied feeling of being full after eating. Early satiety is feeling full sooner than normal or after eating less than usual.

Diseases & Conditions
Sclerosing cholangitis
Sclerosing cholangitis refers to swelling (inflammation), scarring, and destruction of the bile ducts inside and outside of the liver. bile

Diseases & Conditions
Scurvy
Scurvy is a disease that occurs when you have a severe lack of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in your diet. Scurvy causes general weakness, anemia, gum disease, poor wound healing, and skin hemorrhages. anemia...

Tests
Secretin stimulation test
The secretin stimulation test measures the ability of the pancreas to respond to a hormone called secretin. The small intestine produces secretin when partially digested food from the stomach moves into...

Diseases & Conditions
Shigellosis
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection of the lining of the intestines. It is caused by a group of bacteria called Shigella.

Diseases & Conditions
Short bowel syndrome
Short bowel syndrome is a problem that occurs when part of the small intestine is missing or has been removed during surgery. Nutrients are not properly absorbed into the body as a result. not properly...

Tests
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the sigmoid colon and rectum. The sigmoid colon is the area of the large intestine nearest to the rectum.

Diseases & Conditions
Small bowel bacterial overgrowth
Small bowel bacterial overgrowth is a condition in which very large numbers of bacteria grow in the small intestine.

Tests
Small bowel tissue smear/biopsy
Small bowel tissue smear is a lab test that checks for disease in a sample of tissue from the small intestine.

Diseases & Conditions
Small intestinal ischemia and infarction
Intestinal ischemia and infarction occurs when there is a narrowing or blockage of one or more of the arteries or veins that supply the small intestine.

Tests
Small intestine aspirate and culture
Small intestine aspirate and culture is a lab test to check for infection in the small intestine.

Tests
Smear of duodenal fluid aspirate
Smear of duodenal fluid aspirate is an exam of fluid from the duodenum to check for signs of an infection (such as giardia or strongyloides). Rarely, this test is also done in a newborn to check for biliary...

Special Topics
Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

Tests
Stool C difficile toxin
The stool C difficile toxin test detects harmful substances produced by the bacterium Clostridioides difficile (C difficile). This infection is a common cause of diarrhea after antibiotic use. C difficile...

Tests
Stool Gram stain
A stool Gram stain is a laboratory test that uses different chemical stains to detect and identify bacteria in a stool sample. The Gram stain method is sometimes used to quickly diagnose bacterial infections...

Tests
Stool guaiac test
The stool guaiac test looks for hidden (occult) blood in a stool sample. It can find blood even if you cannot see it yourself. It is a common type of fecal occult blood test (FOBT). Guaiac is a substance...

Tests
Stool ova and parasites exam
Stool ova and parasites exam is a lab test to look for parasites or eggs (ova) in a stool sample. The parasites are associated with intestinal infections.

Symptoms
Stools - foul smelling
Foul-smelling stools are stools with a very bad odor. They very often have to do with what you eat, but may be a sign of a medical condition.

Symptoms
Stools - pale or clay-colored
Stools that are pale, clay, or putty-colored may be due to problems in the biliary system. The biliary system is the drainage system of the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas.

Symptoms
Stools – floating
Stools that float are most often due to poor absorption of nutrients (malabsorption) or too much gas (flatulence). malabsorption gas

Tests
String test
A string test involves swallowing a string to obtain a sample from the upper part of the small intestine. The sample is then tested to look for intestinal parasites.

Diseases & Conditions
Strongyloidiasis
Strongyloidiasis is an infection with the roundworm Strongyloides stercoralis (S stercoralis). Strongyloides stercoralis (S stercoralis).

Diseases & Conditions
Swallowing difficulty
Difficulty with swallowing is the feeling that food or liquid is stuck in the throat or at any point before the food enters the stomach. This problem is also called dysphagia.

Self-Care Instructions
Swallowing problems
Dysphagia

Self-Care Instructions
Taking antacids
Heartburn - antacids; Reflux - antacids; GERD - antacids

Symptoms
Tenesmus
Tenesmus is the feeling that you need to pass stools, even though your bowels are already empty. It may involve straining, pain, and cramping.

Tests
Tests for H pylori
Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) is the bacteria (germ) responsible for most stomach (gastric) and duodenal ulcers and many cases of stomach inflammation (chronic gastritis). Helicobacter pylori H pylori...

Surgery
Total abdominal colectomy
Total abdominal colectomy is the removal of the large intestine from the lowest part of the small intestine (ileum) to the rectum. After it is removed, the end of the small intestine is sewn to the rectum...

Self-Care Instructions
Total parenteral nutrition
Hyperalimentation; TPN; Malnourishment - TPN; Malnutrition - TPN

Special Topics
Total parenteral nutrition - infants
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. Fluids are given into a vein to provide most of the nutrients the body needs. The method is used when a...

Surgery
Total proctocolectomy and ileal-anal pouch
Total proctocolectomy and ileal-anal pouch surgery is the removal of the large intestine and most of the rectum. The surgery is done in one or two stages.

Surgery
Total proctocolectomy with ileostomy
Total proctocolectomy with ileostomy is surgery to remove all of the colon (large intestine) and rectum.

Tests
Total protein
The total protein test measures the total amount of two classes of proteins found in the fluid portion of your blood. These are albumin and globulin. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues...

Diseases & Conditions
Toxic megacolon
Toxic megacolon occurs when swelling and inflammation spread into the deeper layers of your colon. As a result, the colon stops working and widens. In severe cases, the colon may rupture.

Surgery
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a procedure to create new connections between two blood vessels in your liver. You may need this procedure if you have severe liver problems.

Nutrition
Traveler's diarrhea diet
Traveler's diarrhea causes loose, watery stools. People can get traveler's diarrhea when they visit places where the water is not clean or the food is not handled safely. This can include developing countries...

Diseases & Conditions
Trichinosis
Trichinosis is an infection with the roundworm Trichinella spiralis. Trichinella spiralis

Diseases & Conditions
Tropical sprue
Tropical sprue is a condition that occurs in people who live in or visit tropical areas for extended periods of time. It impairs nutrients from being absorbed from the intestines. Tropical sprue (TS) is...

Tests
Trypsin and chymotrypsin in stool
Trypsin and chymotrypsin are substances released from the pancreas during normal digestion. When the pancreas does not produce enough trypsin and chymotrypsin, smaller-than-normal amounts can be seen in...

Tests
Trypsinogen test
Trypsinogen is a substance that is normally produced in the pancreas and released into the small intestine. Trypsinogen is converted to trypsin. Then it starts the process needed to break down proteins...

Self-Care Instructions
Types of ileostomy
Ileostomy - types; Standard ileostomy; Brooke ileostomy; Continent ileostomy; Abdominal pouch; End ileostomy; Ostomy; Inflammatory bowel disease - ileostomy and your ileostomy type; Crohn disease - ileostomy...

Discharge Instructions
Ulcerative Colitis - children - discharge
UC - children; Inflammatory bowel disease in children - UC; Ulcerative proctitis - children; Colitis in children - UC

Diseases & Conditions
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum become inflamed. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn disease is another form of IBD. Crohn...

In-depth Report
Ulcerative colitis - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ulcerative colitis.

Discharge Instructions
Ulcerative colitis - discharge
Inflammatory bowel disease - discharge; Ulcerative proctitis - discharge; Colitis - discharge

Symptoms
Ulcers
An ulcer is a crater-like sore on the skin or mucous membrane. Ulcers form when the top layers of skin or tissue have been removed. They can occur in the mouth, stomach, and other parts of the body. mucous...

Special Topics
Umbilical cord care in newborns

Tests
Upper GI and small bowel series
An upper GI and small bowel series is a set of x-rays taken to examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. x-rays Barium enema is a related test that examines the large intestine. Barium enema

Diseases & Conditions
Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Viral gastroenteritis is an infection of the stomach and intestine caused by a virus. The infection can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. It is sometimes called the "stomach flu." diarrhea

Tests
Virtual colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy (VC) is an imaging or x-ray test that looks for cancer, polyps, or other disease in the large intestine (colon). The medical name of this test is CT colonography. polyps

Diseases & Conditions
Visceral larva migrans
Visceral larva migrans (VLM) is a human infection with certain parasites found in the intestines of dogs and cats.

Diseases & Conditions
Volvulus - childhood
A volvulus is a twisting of the intestine that can occur in childhood. It causes a blockage that may cut off blood flow. Part of the intestine may be damaged as a result.

Symptoms
Vomiting blood
Vomiting blood is regurgitating (throwing up) contents of the stomach that contains blood. Vomited blood may appear bright red, dark red, or look like coffee grounds. The vomited material may be mixed with...

Self-Care Instructions
When you have diarrhea
Diarrhea - self-care; Diarrhea - gastroenteritis

Self-Care Instructions
When you have nausea and vomiting
Nausea - self-care; Vomiting - self-care

Diseases & Conditions
Whipple disease
Whipple disease is a rare condition that mainly affects the small intestine. This prevents the small intestine from allowing nutrients to pass into the rest of the body. This is called malabsorption. malabsorption

Diseases & Conditions
Whipworm infection
Whipworm infection is an infection of the large intestine with a type of roundworm.

Diseases & Conditions
Yaws
Yaws is a long-term (chronic) bacterial infection that mainly affects the skin, bones, and joints.

Diseases & Conditions
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a condition in which the body produces too much of the hormone gastrin. Most of the time, a small tumor (gastrinoma) in the pancreas or small intestine is the source of the...