CONDITIONS, DISEASES, AND TERMINOLOGY

Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is a disorder in which the lining of the esophagus is damaged by stomach acid. The cells become altered and change into those that line the intestine. This may predispose to esophageal cancer.

Celiac

A disorder characterized by inflammation of the small intestine, felt to be caused by the body's allergic reaction to a protein called gluten. This substance is present in certain grains such as wheat.

Colorectal Cancer

An abnormal growth in the colon or large intestine Usually, this begins as a smaller growth or polyp which can then progress to cancer if not treated.

Crohn's Disease

One of the inflammatory bowel diseases, characterized by inflammation that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation that occurs in association with diverticulosis.

Diverticulosis

Small pouches which form in the lining of the intestine.

Esophagus

The tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.

Gallstones

Small pebble-like deposit in or outside of the gallbladder which can be made predominantly of cholesterol, calcium, or other substances.

GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A chronic digestive disorder usually characterized by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus causing heartburn-type symptoms.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

A common bacteria which can inhabit the stomach and lead to ulcers and possibly even cancer in some patients.

Hemorrhoids

Prominent veins in the rectum and/or anus.

Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver.

Hiatal Hernia

A condition where a portion of the stomach is positioned above the diaphragm.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

A variety of chronic disorders involving the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

A common gastrointestinal condition which may cause a variety of symptoms including diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Large Intestine (colon)

The last portion of the gastrointestinal tract which acts primarily to absorb water and salt.

Pancreatitis

Irritation or inflammation of the pancreas gland, often due to gallstones or alcohol.

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Disruption of the mucosa or lining of the stomach or intestine.

Polyp

An abnormal growth of tissue that may be precancerous This is commonly found at the time of colonoscopy and upper endoscopy.

Small Intestine

The portion of the gastrointestinal tract between the stomach and the colon where most of digestion and absorption of nutrients takes place.

Stomach

The portion of the gastrointestinal tract between the esophagus and small intestine which digestion of food takes place.

Ulcerative Colitis

One of the inflammatory bowel diseases, characterized by inflammation of the colon.