Bowel and stomach problems are extremely common. This section includes articles which cover a wide range of bowel conditions and how they are treated.

ANAL FISSURE
An anal fissure is a small ulcer in the lining of the rectum. They can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements. The article contains several treatment recommendations.

APPENDICITIS
Appendicitis is a painful condition which usually requires removal of the appendix. This article outlines the symptoms and treatment of the condition.

BARIUM ENEMA
A barium enema is often used to diagnose bowel problems such as diverticular disease and polyps. This article explains the procedure and what preparation is required.

BIOPSY
This article explains what the word means and gives a brief outline of some of the common types of biopsy.

BOWEL ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES
These medicines are used to control bowel inflammation in conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. This article profiles the medication and its side effects.

BOWEL CANCER
Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers, but early detection can save lives. This article looks at the risk factors and treatment for colon cancer.

BOWEL POLYPS
Bowel polyps are a problem in older people. They have been linked to bowel cancer. This article outlines the risks of polyps and surgery to remove them.

BUSCOPAN
This medicine eases stomach and bowel cramps. This article looks at its properties and side effects.

COELIAC DISEASE
Coeliac disease is an intolerance to gluten found in wheat and other cereals. It is now believed to be more common than was thought in the past. This article discusses the symptoms and what foods to avoid.

COLONOSCOPY
Colonoscopy is an examination of the bowel and rectum. It is used to diagnose unexplained abdominal pain, diarrhoea and constipation. This article explains the procedure and how it is performed.

CONSTIPATION
Constipation is a common problem. This article looks at when someone is considered constipated and how to treat the problem.

CROHN'S DISEASE
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory disease of the digestive tract, and is more common than previously thought. This article looks at the symptoms, tests and possible treatments for the condition.

DIARRHOEA
This is a common condition which is usually self limiting. A variety of causes are outlined in this article.

DIVERTICULAR DISEASE
Diverticulitis is a painful bowel condition which is associated with ageing. This article details the symptoms of an attack and subsequent treatment.

FIBRE
This article outlines the different types of fibre and its role in treating certain conditions such as constipation, high cholesterol, diabetes and in probably reducing the risk of bowel cancer. Useful tips on how to eat more fibre are provided.

GASTROSCOPY
Gastroscopy is used to diagnose stomach pain, heartburn and indigestion. This article outlines the procedure and how it is performed.

HAEMORRHOIDS
Haemorrhoids are a common problem. There are several treatment options available. This article looks at these.

HEARTBURN
Heartburn is a common problem that can cause much discomfort when it is severe. This article looks at the causes, symptoms and treatment options for the disorder.

HELICOBACTER PYLORI
Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria which infects the stomach, causing stomach upsets and peptic ulcers. This article discusses the infection and how it can be eradicated.

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Irritable bowel is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. There is no cure but this article gives practical suggestions for managing the condition.

LAPAROSCOPIC HERNIA REPAIR
Laparoscopic surgery is replacing conventional surgery for repairing a hernia. This article gives clear details on how the operation is performed, and the advantages of key-hole surgery.

LOSEC
Losec is a drug used to treat stomach ulcers and gastric reflux. This article profiles the medication and its side effects.

METOCLOPRAMIDE
The medicine is used to ease vomiting and nausea. This article outlines the drug's uses and side effects.

PANCREATITIS
A detailed article outlining the causes and treatment of this condition.

PEPTIC ULCER
Peptic ulcers can cause much discomfort. This article details the symptoms and treatment options to cure the condition.

PROCTALGIA FUGAX
This common condition is characterised by a pain in the rectum. This article looks at the possible treatment options.

REHYDRATION FLUIDS (ELECTROLYTE SOLUTIONS)
Electrolyte solutions are used to replace water and salt lost from vomiting and diarrhoea. This article looks at the different products available and how they should be used.

SURGERY FOR GASTRIC REFLUX
Laparascopic surgery is now replacing traditional open surgery for controlling severe heartburn. This article looks at the best candidates for key-hole surgery and how the operation is performed.

ULCERATIVE COLITIS
This is a long term condition in which the large intestine becomes inflamed. This article covers symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, including diet, medications and surgical procedures.

A-Z of Digestive Disorders