What is pancreatitis? The primary symptom of pancreatitis is upper abdominal pain that may spread to your back. Additional symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, rapid pulse, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and cough. In the United States, acute pancreatitis is one of the most common reasons people with gastrointestinal problems are admitted to the...
A baby with stomach pain may have the following signs and symptoms the baby is grumpy or fussy and more. When a baby has a stomachache or stomach pain, it can cause significant discomfort, making it difficult for the baby to sleep or rest. Knowing the cause of the pain can help determine if the...
What is a colostomy? A colostomy is a surgery where an opening is made from the colon out through the abdomen allowing stools to pass out through the abdomen instead of passing through the bowels and rectum. Your colon plays an important role in supporting your health. It processes food, removes waste, and may even...
What is heartburn? Heartburn symptoms can be similar to angina (heart attack), including pain in your chest or upper torso, irregular heartbeat, cold sweats, weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. Whoever coined the phrase "hurts so good" may have just finished a spicy meal. If you've ever felt a burning sensation...
An abdominal incision is a cut made through your skin on the belly to expose the abdominal organs or to facilitate an operation or a procedure. Incisions or cuts on your belly are mostly made during an emergency or a planned surgery. Although laparoscopic surgery has reduced the need for large incisions, certain conditions still...
What is intestinal anastomosis? An intestinal anastomosis is the opening between two parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Surgeons must sometimes remove diseased parts and reconnect the healthy parts with an opening for food to pass through. An anastomosis is a medical term used to describe connection or opening between two organs or tissues. When a...
*Ricin definition and facts *Ricin definition and facts medically edited by: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Ricin is a toxic protein found naturally in castor beans from the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis). It can be deadly, but it depends on the dose and route of exposure. If castor beans are chewed and swallowed ricin...
What is a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)? A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) connects the hepatic vein and portal vein in the liver with a stent. A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an artificial connection that is created by a radiologist between two veins (hepatic vein and portal vein) in the liver. These...
What are hiccups? A woman who drinks from the opposite edge of the glass can decrease hiccuping. Source: Getty Images The main muscle that helps your lungs expand and contract to breathe is the diaphragm, which is in your abdomen and controls the volume of your chest cavity. Hiccups (also spelled hiccough) happen when this...
What is peptic ulcer disease? Peptic ulcers are treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Peptic ulcers are sores that develop on the inner lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small bowel (duodenum). There are two types of ulcers, stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers. A peptic ulcer can give you belly...