1. What is an anal fissure? An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anus, the opening where your bowel movements come out. Anal fissures cause pain, especially during a bowel movement. There is a muscle that wraps around the anus and holds it shut. It is called the “anal sphincter.” The […]
1. What are hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum. They can cause itching, bleeding, and pain. Hemorrhoids are very common. In some cases, you can see or feel hemorrhoids around the outside of the rectum. In other cases, you cannot see them because they are hidden inside the rectum. 2. What are the
1. What is a splenectomy? Splenectomy is surgery in which your spleen is removed. The spleen is an organ in the upper left part of the belly. It is part of the body’s infection-fighting system, or “immune system.” It makes blood cells that help you fight infection. The spleen also filters the blood. It removes
1. What is ischemic bowel disease? Ischemic bowel disease is a condition in which there is not enough blood flow to the intestines. This happens when veins or arteries in the intestines are blocked. It can happen in the large intestine or the small intestine. It can cause belly pain, nausea, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
1. What is intussusception? Intussusception is a condition that can cause severe belly pain. It happens when one part of the intestine slides into another part of the intestine. Intussusception can happen with either the small or large intestine. When one part of the intestine slides into another, it causes a blockage. When the intestine
1. What is a small bowel obstruction? A small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a condition in which the small intestine gets blocked. “Small bowel” is another term for the small intestine. In an SBO, air, fluid, and food get stuck in the intestine. They can’t move through the small intestine the way they normally would.
1. What is minimally invasive surgery? Minimally invasive surgery is a type of surgery that uses special tools designed to decrease the size of incisions and reduce how much the body’s tissues get damaged. One kind of minimally invasive surgery involves the use of a “scope,” a viewing device that allows surgeons to look inside
1. What is the gallbladder? The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that is tucked under your liver. It stores bile, a fluid that helps the body break down fat. 2. What are gallstones? Gallstones are small stones that form inside the gallbladder. They can be tiny specks or get as big as the whole
1. What is pancreatitis? Pancreatitis is a condition that can cause severe belly pain. The pancreas is an organ that makes hormones and juices that help break down food. Pancreatitis is the term for when this organ gets irritated or swollen. Most people get over pancreatitis without any long-lasting effects. But a few people get
1. What is a peptic ulcer? A peptic ulcer is a sore that can form on the lining of the stomach or duodenum. The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine. 2. What are the symptoms of a peptic ulcer? Some people with peptic ulcers have no symptoms. Other people can have symptoms
