What is lower gastrointestinal bleeding?

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is loss of blood from the lower part of the gut, namely the large intestine and to a lesser extent the ileum of the short intestine. Although lower gastrointestinal bleeding is less common than upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it can lead to significant blood loss over time as many patients are not aware of the condition or do not seek medical assistance. Bleeding from the lower gut is not a disease on its own but rather a symptom of some underlying disease. It can arise with common conditions such as hemorrhoids (piles) or may be a sign of serious bowel conditions like colon cancer.

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What is erosive gastritis?

Gastritis is a well known and common condition where the stomach wall is inflamed. It can be broadly classified as erosive or non-erosive. The term ‘erosive gastritis’ refers to a condition where there is minimal inflammation of the stomach wall but instead the wall wears away. This is seen as open sores (ulcers) or erosions. It is often considered to be a more serious type of gastritis because there is a potential for significant bleeding from the eroded or ulcerated site. Erosive gastritis can be both acute or chronic.

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What is abdominal angina?

Abdominal angina is a type of abdominal pain that starts after eating (postprandial pain) as the blood flow to the bowels are insufficient to for the increased demands. The bowels are essentially starved of oxygen eventually leading to damage and even tissue death over time. It is an uncommon condition and more commonly seen in females after the age of 60 years. Although the condition is fairly well understood and can be effectively treated with surgery, the chance of death is very high without prompt medical attention.

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What is gastric outlet obstruction?

Gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is a condition where the opening between the stomach and small intestine is blocked either partially or completely. This portion of the stomach where the blockage is located is known as the pylorus, hence the alternative term for gastric outlet obstruction – pyloric obstruction. It is not a disease but rather a consequence of some underlying disease involving the stomach and more specifically the pylorus of the stomach.

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Although it is the source of much amusement, passing wind through the rear is also  the cause of much embarrassment when it occurs in public. It is a normal act that occurs in every person from time to time. However, there are instances where it can be excessive and therefore cause significant distress due to its social impact. Most of us are able to retain flatulence when we feel the need to pass wind until the setting is appropriate to expel it. However, in some people there is an inability to control flatulence leading to the passing of wind at the most inappropriate of times. It can be such a major problem that a person may withdraw from social interaction and it can even lead to anxiety and depression.

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