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 …
Read More »Gallstones – Definition, Treatment, and Management.
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 …
Read More »Diarrhea – Definition, Complications, and Prevention.
Definition Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. A person with this typically passes stool more than three times a day. People with it 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 …
Read More »Stomach Ulcer – Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention.
Definition Stomach ulcer, 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 …
Read More »Gastritis: Risk factors, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Prevention
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 …
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