Gastrointestinal diseases

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Gastrointestinal diseases

Gastrointestinal diseases (pronunciation: gas-tro-in-tes-ti-nal di-zeez) refer to diseases involving the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum, and the accessory organs of digestion, the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Etymology

The term "gastrointestinal" is derived from the Greek words "gaster" (stomach) and "enteron" (intestine). The term "disease" comes from the Old French "desaise" meaning lack of ease.

Types of Gastrointestinal Diseases

There are many types of gastrointestinal diseases, including:

  • Peptic ulcer disease: A condition where ulcers develop in the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus.
  • Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily the stomach and intestines, that results in vomiting and diarrhea.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus).
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A group of inflammatory conditions of the colon and small intestine, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.
  • Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder that can cause abdominal pain.
  • Celiac disease: An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.
  • Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements.

Related Terms

  • Gastroenterologist: A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Endoscopy: A procedure used to examine the digestive tract.
  • Colonoscopy: A test that allows your doctor to look at the inner lining of your large intestine.
  • Biopsy: A procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope.

External links

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