digestion

What Is bloating? Bloating is an uncomfortable belly feeling of being too full from food or air. Bloating usually resolves on its own after digestion and any gas that has passed. However, there are some medications and over-the counter food additives that can relieve symptoms faster than your body's normal processes. Bloating is that uncomfortable …

What Is food poisoning? Food poisoning usually isn't dangerous and affects millions every year. Serious cases can be treated with medication and home care. Anti-diarrhea medicines, such as Pepto-Bismol or Imodium help along with pain relievers and fever reducers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Food poisoning affects millions of Americans every year. Most of the time, it isn’t dangerous. There …

What is cholecystitis? You should avoid high-fat foods with cholecystitis. These include fried foods, canned fish, processed meats, full-fat dairy products, processed baked goods, fast food, and most packaged snack foods. The gallbladder is a small sac attached to the duct (tube) that carries bile from the liver to the intestine. Bile is a fluid that helps break down fats, …

What is gastritis? When you have gastritis, focus on a diet rich in high-fiber, low-acid foods. Your stomach is a powerful part of your digestive system. This organ contains a lining or inner layer that produces stomach acid and stomach enzymes. Your stomach uses these secretions along with strong stomach muscles to churn food and begin the digestion process. Your …

What is the function of bile? Bile is digestive fluid made by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It aids in digestion, absorption, excretion, hormone metabolism and other functions. Bile juice is a digestive fluid produced by the liver. It is stored and concentrated in the gallbladder. Its main function is to convert fats in food into fatty acids, …

What are hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoid symptoms may usually go away with diet and lifestyle modifications. You must, however, seek immediate medical care if your symptoms do not go away in a week. Hemorrhoids are inflamed or swollen veins near the anus (external hemorrhoids) or in the lower rectum (internal hemorrhoids). If you have hemorrhoids, you might feel some of the following …

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 require abdominal cuts or incisions. …

What is heartburn? Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning feeling in the chest and throat. Get rid of heartburn fast with medications, home care and alternative therapies. Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest and throat. It doesn't have anything to do with your heart. However, the sensation is so close to your heart that it can feel like …

What is pancreatitis?  Pancreatitis is inflammation and swelling of the pancreas. Pancreatitis can't be cured, but it can be treated with diet and lifestyle changes and medication. You can usually cure acute cases of pancreatitis with proper treatment and changes in diet. While a doctor cannot always cure chronic cases of pancreatitis, treatment options can help you manage your symptoms. …

What is constipation? Constipation involves having less than three bowel movements per week or having difficulty passing stool. Help constipation fast by drinking water, eating more fiber and exercising. Constipation is a common symptom some people experience. While it can be uncomfortable, it isn’t usually serious.  Constipation is one of the most common reasons for visiting the doctor. About 2.5 …