We are all able to identify the signal to pass stool. It usually starts at a low intensity and gradually increases until we have a bowel movement. This sensation then subsides afterwards. However, in some cases a person may not find relief after passing stool. There may still be an urging to have a bowel movement and the >> Read More ...
The stomach is prone to a host of disturbances and diseases as is most parts of the gastrointestinal tract. One of the differences with the stomach lies the strong gastric acid and digestive enzymes which the stomach has to produce and contain. At times these substances may also prove harmful to the stomach itself and can >> Read More ...
Bowel habit refers to the frequency of passing stool. It varies among individuals but is considered normal if it is not more than three times a day and not less than three times a week. There are many other characteristics of bowel habit, like the time and trigger events. Some people have to pass stool first thing in the >> Read More ...
Having a bowel movement may not seem like a significant event to many people but for a person who is constipated it can be difficult and at times even excruciating. It is estimated that about 15% of the American population is constipated and for those with severe constipation, the search for means and methods to facilitate >> Read More ...
It is often self-diagnosed but irritable bowel syndrome presents with specific signs and symptoms and has to meet with certain criteria in order to be diagnosed. Most people think it is a condition associated with frequent bowel movements and diarrhea but there are different types of IBS and various other symptoms like >> Read More ...
Lower right side pain may be due to a host of causes but appendicitis is often suspected with severe pain in this quadrant. It can be a serious and even life-threatening condition that required emergency medical attention. Surgery is often performed to remove the appendix. Although death from appendicitis is rare these >> Read More ...
Acid reflux is a common condition and up to 40% of Americans experience symptoms with as many as 10% suffering with daily symptoms. The exact prevalence is unknown because in silent acid reflux there are no obvious symptoms. In addition many people suffer with acute reflux that is not reported and quickly remedied with >> Read More ...
Normal bowel habit means passing stool anywhere between three times a day to three times a week. More frequent or infrequent defecation may be classified as diarrhea or constipation, respectively. However, the volume of stool as well as the shape and size of the stool is not often taken into consideration. Sometimes the >> Read More ...
There are many different sensations that may be experienced which is not always described according to strict medical definitions. However, even these crude descriptions can at times be helpful in identifying the underlying cause before diagnostic investigations can be conducted. Abdominal pain is common problem and can be >> Read More ...
Most of us view milk as a nutritious food with a host of health benefits. Therefore it may seem inconceivable that symptoms arise after consuming milk. However, milk can be a problem for some people where it may exacerbate skin, nasal or lung symptoms and even lead to digestive symptoms such as abdominal cramps and >> Read More ...
