Digestive System Articles
Browse eMedTV's wide range of articles related to digestive system including topics such as pancreatitis, heartburn, and diverticulitis. Use the search box at the top-right corner of the page to find information about other health topics.
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As this eMedTV Web page explains, the digestive system allows your body to absorb nutrients from food (to use for energy, growth, and repairs), and then remove the leftover waste products. This article provides an overview of the digestive system.
Diverticulitis occurs when small sacs in the colon become infected. As this article from the eMedTV library explains, diverticulitis can develop suddenly and without warning, so it is important to know the symptoms and causes of the disease.
Appendicitis is a serious medical attention, often requiring emergency treatment. This page of the eMedTV website provides an in-depth look at appendicitis, including symptoms, and includes links to additional information.
A colonoscopy is used to look for early signs of cancer or the causes of changes in bowel habits. This eMedTV Web page further describes the procedure in detail, including how it is carried out and possible risks associated with it.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. As this eMedTV article explains, it comes in two forms: acute and chronic. This portion of the Web site provides detailed information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of pancreatitis.
The pancreas is a gland in the abdomen that makes insulin, other hormones, and pancreatic juices. This eMedTV Web page describes the location and purpose of the pancreas in the body, including its role in helping the body use and store energy.
People who have diverticulosis have small pouches in their colons that bulge outward through weak spots. As this eMedTV page explains, diverticulosis itself is harmless, but if infection occurs in the pouches, it can cause pain in the lower abdomen.
In someone with cirrhosis, liver injuries cause scar tissue to replace normal, healthy tissue in the liver. This eMedTV article lists causes of cirrhosis (such as hepatitis C) and explains how cirrhosis scarring keeps the liver from working properly.
Hemochromatosis is a disorder in which the intestines absorb too much iron. The information in this eMedTV Web page discusses the types, causes, symptoms, and treatment of this condition and provides links to more information.
The colon is a tube that connects rectum and anus to the small intestine and absorbs nutrients, salts, and water from food. This eMedTV page discusses the function of the colon and the rest of the digestive system, such as the esophagus and stomach.
Lactose intolerance is a condition in which a person is unable to digest lactose (a sugar found in milk). This eMedTV Web page offers an overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatment of lactose intolerance.
Heartburn occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach come back up the esophagus and cause irritation. This eMedTV Web page discusses risk factors for heartburn, key symptoms associated with the condition, and treatment options that are available.
Following a diverticulitis diet simply means sticking to high-fiber foods and avoiding foods that can get caught in the diverticula. This eMedTV article suggests diverticulitis diet foods that can help eliminate diverticulitis attacks.
This eMedTV Web page offers a detailed look at rectal bleeding, which can be a symptom of various diseases, from hemorrhoids to cancer. This page also explains the types of bleeding that can occur, possible causes, and treatment options.
Ranitidine is a drug that may be used to treat heartburn, ulcers, GERD, and other conditions. This eMedTV Web page covers both over-the-counter and prescription forms of ranitidine, including details about how they reduce acid in the stomach.
Appendicitis symptoms include pain in the abdomen, nausea, and constipation, although not everyone with appendicitis has these symptoms. This eMedTV article lists possible appendicitis symptoms and explains how other medical conditions can have an effect.
Anal bleeding can be caused by things like infection, hemorrhoids, inflammation, cancer, and ulcers. This eMedTV article explores the different types of anal bleeding as well as common diagnostic tests (such as endoscopy) and treatment options.
A colonoscopy procedure allows your doctor to examine the inside of your colon through a camera inserted in the rectum. This eMedTV page explains the colonoscopy procedure more thoroughly, including details on what to expect and how to prepare.
Colon polyps are growths that develop in the large intestine. As explained in this eMedTV article, most polyps that grow in the colon are benign; however, some polyps may become cancerous over time.
As this eMedTV article explains, spastic colon is another name for irritable bowel syndrome, a disorder that often results in diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramping. This page offers an overview of the symptoms and diagnosis of spastic colon.