Digestive Disorders

​ Chemical digestion breaks down food into absorbable nutrients using enzymes and fluids in the mouth, stomach, and small intestine.

Yellow bile aids digestion; its presence in vomit may indicate bile reflux or other digestive issues.

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is your gut's 'second brain,' communicating with your brain via the gut-brain axis.

Short-chain fatty acids are beneficial compounds produced during fiber digestion, promoting gut health and reducing inflammation.

Severe digestive disorders in children can cause symptoms like nausea and stomach pain, requiring medical diagnosis and treatment.

Dysbiosis is a gut imbalance that can trigger fatigue, bloating, skin issues, and raise your risk for chronic conditions.

Learn about esophageal spasms, their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options, including home care and medical therapies.

Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments for dysphagia—a swallowing disorder that can affect eating, drinking, and breathing.

Chronic inflammation of the esophagus linked to allergies; often misdiagnosed as GERD and managed with diet and medication.

Living with eosinophilic esophagitis? Learn how Dupixent can help reduce swallowing issues and inflammation over time.

Achalasia makes it hard to swallow. Learn the causes, symptoms, and how treatment can ease this rare esophagus condition.

Esophageal stricture can make swallowing tough. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and how dilation may help relieve it.

A Schatzki ring is a tissue ring in the esophagus that causes swallowing issues. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and treatments.

A Mallory-Weiss tear is an esophageal tear from severe vomiting or coughing, causing bleeding. Treatment may involve endoscopy.

Gastroenteritis causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Learn about symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention tips.

Gastritis is stomach lining inflammation, often caused by infection, alcohol, or NSAIDs. Symptoms include indigestion and pain.

Learn the key differences between reactive gastropathy and gastritis, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Gastroparesis causes delayed stomach emptying. Find out what it feels like and how to ease your symptoms.

Learn how diet changes can ease gastroparesis symptoms like nausea, bloating, early fullness, and help you feel more in control.

Learn what causes stomach ulcers, their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and how to help prevent complications.

Learn about ulcer symptoms like burning stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and when to seek urgent care for serious complications.

Explore ulcer treatment options like antibiotics, acid reducers, and tips to prevent flare-ups and manage daily life effectively.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome causes tumors that trigger excess stomach acid, leading to ulcers and other digestive issues.

Hypochlorhydria is a condition where low stomach acid affects digestion, nutrient absorption, and can cause digestive issues.

Aerophagia happens when you swallow excess air, leading to frequent burping, bloating, and stomach discomfort.

Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS) happens when carbs ferment into alcohol. Learn about its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

Duodenitis is inflammation of the duodenum, often due to infections or NSAIDs. Learn about its causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Typhlitis is an inflammation of the cecum, often affecting those with weakened immune systems. It requires immediate treatment.

Epiploic appendagitis is a rare condition causing severe abdominal pain. It usually resolves within 1-2 weeks without treatment.

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome compresses the duodenum, causing gastrointestinal issues, primarily in teens and young women.

Fecal impaction is a serious condition where a hard stool mass blocks the colon or rectum, often due to chronic constipation.

Dumping syndrome causes rapid food movement from the stomach, leading to nausea and diarrhea, often after gastric surgery.

Ileus is a temporary condition where the intestine can't move food, causing bloating, nausea, and constipation symptoms.

Learn what an anastomotic leak is, its symptoms, causes, treatments, and how to spot and manage this post-surgery complication early.

Gastrointestinal perforation occurs when the GI tract develops a hole, leading to serious complications if not treated early.

Learn how twisted bowel (volvulus) is treated with or without surgery, depending on its location and your overall health.

A tear in the anal lining can cause pain, bleeding, and spasms. Learn causes, symptoms, treatments, and ways to prevent fissures.

An anal fissure is a tear in the anus that causes pain during bowel movements, bleeding, and irritation.

Lateral internal sphincterotomy helps heal anal fissures by reducing pressure and easing pain during bowel movements.

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the inside of the anus and the skin around it.

Proctitis is an inflammation of the anus (the opening) and lining of the rectum (lower part of the intestine leading to the anus).

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum drops through the anus, causing discomfort, incontinence, and other complications.

Proctalgia fugax causes sudden rectal pain from muscle spasms that last seconds to minutes and can strike without warning.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins, similar to varicose veins, in the lowest part of your rectum and anus.

Hemorrhoids can cause pain, itching, or bleeding. Learn when to see a doctor, get a diagnosis, and explore treatment options.

Learn which foods help manage hemorrhoids, like fiber-rich beans, grains, and fruits, and which to avoid for relief.

Hemorrhoids usually improve with fiber, hydration, and soothing treatments. Severe cases may need procedures or surgery.

Hemorrhoids often improve with home remedies like warm baths, creams, ice packs, and lifestyle changes like fiber and hydration.

Explore various surgeries for hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoidectomy, PPH, and banding, to treat severe or persistent cases.

The biliary system helps digest fats and remove waste, but problems like bile reflux or gallstones can cause serious health issues.

Gallbladder polyps are abnormal growth, usually benign, causing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Treatment depends on size.

Cholecystitis is a swelling and irritation of your gallbladder, a small organ in the right side of your belly near your liver.

The Courvoisier sign indicates a swollen gallbladder due to bile buildup, often linked to jaundice and potential cancer.

Gallbladder problems are diagnosed using tests like liver tests, ultrasound, CT scans, and HIDA scans to assess function.

A HIDA scan evaluates gallbladder function and bile flow, helping diagnose conditions like gallstones and cholecystitis.

An intraoperative cholangiogram is an X-ray used during gallbladder surgery to visualize bile ducts and check for stones.

A cholecystostomy is a minimally invasive procedure to drain an infected gallbladder when surgery isn't safe.

After gallbladder surgery, follow a low-fat diet and avoid certain foods to support digestion and manage symptoms like diarrhea.

Gallbladder cleanses, like olive oil flushes, are ineffective and may cause health risks; consult a doctor for safe treatments.

Bile acid malabsorption (BAM) leads to diarrhea and urgency due to excess bile in the colon; it's often linked to IBS and more.

Biliary obstruction is a blockage in bile ducts, leading to complications like jaundice, pain, and digestive issues if untreated.

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) damages bile ducts in the liver, leading to inflammation and potential liver failure over time.

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is diagnosed through blood tests, imaging, and possibly a liver biopsy to assess liver damage.

Primary biliary cholangitis has no cure but can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and possibly a liver transplant.

Without treatment, the PBC can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure. The goal of treatments is to slow the disease as much as possible and relieve symptoms.

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction causes bile backup, leading to abdominal pain; treatment may involve medications or surgery.

The pancreas is key to digestion. See how its enzymes and hormones team up to break down food and stabilize blood sugar.

Rare annular pancreas can encircle the duodenum and form a ring. see its signs, tests, and surgical fixes.

Enlarged pancreas? Learn causes, signs, and the latest scans, meds, and procedures that can help.

Pancreatitis inflames the pancreas. Spot the causes, pain clues, types, risks, and treatment essentials.

Sudden mid‑belly pain after heavy food or drink? It might be pancreatitis; urgent care is vital.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency starves you of nutrients; look for weight loss and foul stools—PERT is the fix.

Fluid‑filled pancreatic pseudocysts may follow pancreatitis—see key signs, scans, and drainage options.

Acute pancreatitis can turn deadly when tissue dies—spot necrotizing signs, causes, and urgent treatments.

Diarrhea has many roots: viruses, stress, meds, gut diseases.Find out the key causes and red‑flag signs.

Diarrhea is a common side effect of drugs, and many medications can cause it. Explore treatment options.

Dairy distress? See the root of lactose intolerance and smart ways to get calcium without discomfort.

Diarrhea with a burn? Learn the symptoms, tests, treatments, and prevention tips for ‘fire poop’ you don’t want to ignore.

Most diarrhea cases resolve on their own in a few days, but you can take steps at home to feel better and recover faster.

If you get diarrhea often, it’s important to check if your treatment is effective and safe. Here are some key points to consider.

If nausea or vomiting come with other worrying symptoms like blood in vomit. Consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.

If nausea and vomiting last longer than 2 days or worsen, seek medical advice to rule out serious causes and get appropriate treatment.

Nausea and vomiting can result from various causes and may require specific treatments and care, especially in children.

Antiemetics are medications used to alleviate nausea and vomiting, available as both over-the-counter and prescription options.

Is your vomiting more intense than usual? Explore what projectile vomiting is, what might be causing it, and when to see a doctor.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome can be tough to understand and manage. Discover the possible triggers and the treatment options.

Curious about what diverticulitis is and how it differs from diverticulosis? Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Meckel’s diverticulum affects more males than females and can lead to serious issues if untreated.Â

Zenker’s diverticulum affects a tiny portion of people but can significantly impact quality of life.

Esophageal diverticulum is a rare condition where pouches form in the esophagus, usually needs treatment only if symptoms occur.

Diverticulitis is an inflammation of the colon that leads to severe belly pain, nausea, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Learn effective strategies to prevent diverticulitis through dietary changes, hydration, and lifestyle modifications.

Diverticulitis is caused by a low-fiber diet and increased pressure in the colon, and it can be treated with dietary changes and meds. Â

A diverticulitis diet includes a liquid diet during flare-ups, followed by low-fiber foods to help recovery and prevent future issues.

Lactose intolerance varies by age and ethnicity, with symptoms triggered when undigested lactose ferments in the colon.

Bloating, gas, or an upset stomach after dairy might signal lactose intolerance. Consult your doctor for managing your diet.

Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks lactase often due to genetics, illness, or rare genetic disorders.

Think you’re just ‘sensitive’? Hidden lactose in foods may be causing misery—find out how to outsmart it.

Dairy making you miserable? Discover whether it’s lactose trouble or a true milk allergy and why the difference matters.

Having tummy trouble after dairy? A simple two‑hour breath test can reveal whether lactose is the culprit.

Craving cheesy, frosty, or fluffy treats? Master these lactose‑free swaps and enjoy your favorites worry‑free.

Are fruit, honey, and soda causing pain? Unmask the two forms of fructose intolerance and why one can wreck your liver.

Malabsorption syndrome happens when your body isn’t able to take in enough nutrients from the food you eat.

It’s not unusual to spot bits of undigested food in your stool from time to time. Most often, it’s harmless.

A bezoar is a mass of undigested material that causes no symptoms, can lead to digestive blockages, and may need medical treatment.

Fecal fat refers to the presence of undigested fat in your stool—a sign that your body isn't properly absorbing nutrients.Â

C. diff poses the greatest risk to older adults, people with weakened immune systems, or those recently on antibiotics.

H. pylori affects more than half the world’s population. Learn how this bacterial infection spreads and what steps to take for treatment.

The urea breath test is a quick, noninvasive way to find out if you have H. pylori, a common stomach infection that can lead to ulcers.Â

Echovirus 11 is a contagious virus that can cause outbreaks in communities and child care settings.

Dysentery is a gut infection that causes bloody diarrhea and stomach pain. Good hygiene and safe food practices can help prevent it.

Tapeworms can infect kids and adults through undercooked meat or poor hygiene.Â

Whipple’s disease is a rare infection. Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent life-threatening complications.

The Entero-test (string test) is a diagnostic tool used to detect parasites in the upper GI tract, especially when stool exams are negative.Â

Learn about common causes of stomach cramps, including food poisoning, allergies, IBS, and when to seek medical attention.

Discover the causes of early satiety, from gastroparesis to ulcers, and learn when to seek medical advice for relief.

Bloating is a common condition that leads to abdominal discomfort and swelling, often due to digestive issues or food sensitivities.

Hematemesis is a serious condition where vomiting blood indicates digestive tract bleeding, requiring immediate medical attention.

Throwing up foam can occur due to dietary choices, infections, or conditions like GERD and hiatal hernia requiring attention.

Tenesmus is the uncomfortable feeling of needing a bowel movement even when the colon is empty, often indicating GI issues.

Black poop can indicate dietary changes or serious issues like internal bleeding. Always consult a doctor if it occurs.

Mucus in stool can indicate various digestive issues, from IBS to infections. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Floating stools can indicate excess gas or malabsorption issues. Consult a doctor if accompanied by blood, odor, or other symptoms.

Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is a condition where proteins leak into the gastrointestinal tract, leading to protein loss.

An upper GI series is an X-ray test that examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using barium to identify digestive issues.

Various imaging tests, including CT scans and MRIs, help diagnose digestive diseases by providing detailed images of the GI tract.

Hydrogen breath tests measure hydrogen levels to diagnose lactose intolerance, fructose intolerance, and bacterial overgrowth.

The Bristol Stool Chart categorizes stool types to help assess digestive health, indicating conditions like constipation or diarrhea.

Stool color changes can indicate dietary influences or health issues; normal poop is brown, while other colors may signal problems.

ERCP is a procedure that uses an endoscope and X-rays to diagnose and treat issues in the bile and pancreatic ducts.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) uses sound waves and an endoscope to create detailed images of the digestive tract and nearby organs.

Capsule endoscopy uses a small camera in a pill to capture images of the gastrointestinal tract for diagnosing digestive issues.

Esophagoscopy is a procedure that uses an endoscope to examine the esophagus, helping diagnose conditions like GERD and tumors.

Colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure that examines the colon and rectum to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal issues.

A clear liquid diet consists of transparent liquids to provide hydration and minimal nutrition, often used before medical procedures.

EndoFLIP uses a balloon and catheter to measure esophagus area and pressure, helping diagnose various gastrointestinal issues.

An anoscopy is a quick, painless test doctors use to check the anus and rectum for hemorrhoids, polyps, fissures, and more.

Enemas offer relief by treating constipation, managing stool leakage, and prepping the bowel for medical tests or surgeries.

Pyloroplasty widens the pylorus, aiding food passage and treating issues like pyloric stenosis, gastroparesis, and ulcers.

Laparoscopic surgery uses small cuts and a camera for minimal invasion, offering quicker recovery, less pain, and smaller scars.

Vagotomy reduces stomach acid by targeting the vagus nerve to treat ulcers, pyloric stenosis, and severe digestive conditions.

A GI cocktail combines medications like lidocaine and antacids, offering relief from chest pain and other digestive issues.

The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube, a lifesaving tool, stops severe esophageal and stomach bleeding using balloon pressure effectively.

A nasogastric tube provides nutrients and fluids through the nose to the stomach, aiding short-term feeding and requiring careful placement.

Feeding tubes deliver nutrition directly to the stomach or intestines when eating is difficult, with various types requiring specific care. Â

Many digestive problems can be prevented by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Here is the list of foods to follow.

Prebiotics help healthy bacteria grow in your gut to make your digestive system work better. Find prebiotic-rich foods and benefits.

Synbiotics combine probiotics and prebiotics to boost gut health, support immunity, ease digestion issues, and improve metabolism.

Probiotics are live "good" bacteria that support gut health, aid digestion, balance bacteria, and may help with various health conditions.

Probiotics are live microbes aiding digestion, balancing gut bacteria, boosting immunity, and supporting overall gut health.

If you’re ready to add probiotics to your diet, you have a lot of options. Check out which probiotic is right for you.

Choose the right probiotic by checking safety, quality, specific strains, CFUs, and proper storage for effective results.

Probiotics in foods and supplements support digestion, aid diarrhea, eczema, and more, with strains offering tailored benefits.

Probiotic enemas may treat IBD, but research is limited. Discover the pros, cons, and need for further studies.

LGG probiotics improve digestion, strengthen gut barriers, and alleviate issues like colic, diarrhea, and IBS symptoms.

Explore the benefits of probiotics for gut health, immunity, and more, plus potential side effects and safety tips.

Tips to ease gas, bloating, and heartburn, with guidance on managing and preventing common digestive troubles.

Improve gut health with fiber, probiotics, and lean meals. Manage stress and consult a doctor for persistent symptoms.

Ease nighttime tummy troubles by staying hydrated, cutting greasy foods, and addressing symptoms like bloating and gas.

Treat indigestion with OTC meds, talk therapy for stress, and ginger's anti-inflammatory benefits for digestion support.

Stomach pain often isn’t severe. Learn easy remedies, potential causes, and signs that need medical attention immediately.

Learn when smelly gas is normal and when symptoms like bloody stool or nausea signal it’s time to consult your doctor.

Understand the link between digestion, bacterial activity, and trapped gas that can lead to bloating and mild to intense pain.

Gas pain? Try these remedies and treatments to feel better fast—and find out when your symptoms may need a doctor’s attention.

Belly massage can ease constipation and tension. Discover safe, gentle techniques to support digestive health and comfort.

A sitz bath can ease pain, itching, or swelling in your perineal area. See how to use it safely and when to talk to your doctor.

Whether you're newly diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis or already in treatment, learn how to make the most of your doctor appointment.

Whether you're newly diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis or already in treatment, learn how to make the most of your doctor appointment.

More than half a million people in the United States have Crohn's disease. WebMD's slide show has 15 of them you've probably heard of.

Constipated? WebMD shows you why you may be having problems with your bowel movements and whether fiber, water, and exercise can help with constipation.

How much do you know about tapeworms? Find out more about what they are, how they get into your body, and how you can treat and prevent them.

Since there's no cure for phenylketonuria (PKU), you'll need treatment throughout your life. But advances in specialty foods and new diagnostics have improved the outlook for people with this rare disease.

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