Stomach Disorders

What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD comprises a group of diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract. Ulcerative colitis occurs when the lining of your large intestine (also called the colon), rectum, or both become inflamed. This inflammation produces tiny sores called ulcers …

Definition Peritonitis is when the peritoneum the thin layer of tissue that covers the inner wall of the abdomen and abdominal organs becomes irritated or inflamed. It’s usually due to a bacterial or fungal infection, In some cases, the peritonitis could be the result of something else going on in …

Definition An enlarged spleen, known formally as splenomegaly, is a medical condition in which a person or animal’s spleen increases in size due to some sort of inflammation or other problem. The swelling doesn’t usually cause any immediate symptoms or pain, and as such people aren’t usually aware of what’s …

Definition Constipation is the infrequent and difficult passage of stool. The stool may be too hard, infrequent, small or difficult to expel. In some people, constipation is sudden and often a manifestation of another abdominal problem, such as a bowel obstruction. The incidence of constipation increases with age and is …

Definition Gallstones, or choleliths, are solid masses formed from bile precipitates. These “stones” may occur in the gallbladder or the biliary tract (ducts leading from the liver to the small intestine). There are two types of gallstones: cholesterol and pigment stones. Both types have their own unique epidemiology and risk …

Definition Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. A person with diarrhea typically passes stool more than three times a day. People with diarrhea may pass more than a quart of stool a day. Acute diarrhea is a common problem that usually lasts 1 or 2 days and goes away on its …

Definition Stomach ulcers, which are also known as gastric ulcers, are painful sores in the stomach lining. Stomach ulcers are a type of peptic ulcer disease. Peptic ulcers are any ulcers that affect both the stomach and small intestines. Stomach ulcers occur when the thick layer of mucus that protects …

Definition Gastritis is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. This may be caused by many factors including infection, alcohol, particular medications and some allergic and immune conditions. It can be either acute (with severe attacks lasting a day or two) or chronic (with long-term appetite …