Best Medical Gastroenterology Hospital in Hyderabad, India

Biliary dyskinesia is a functional disorder where the gallbladder fails to contract properly, impairing bile flow into the small intestine. The patients commonly have recurrent pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, and digestive discomfort, especially after fatty meals. This condition can occur without gallstones and is diagnosed mainly by gallbladder imaging studies assessing bile ejection fraction.

Bile reflux disease results from the abnormal backward flow of bile into the stomach and esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a bitter taste in the mouth. It often coexists with acid reflux, complicating diagnosis and symptom management.

Cholangitis is an infection and inflammation of the bile ducts, usually caused by obstruction such as stones or strictures. The patients present with fever, jaundice, and right upper abdominal pain.

Choledocholithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones in the common bile duct, leading to bile flow obstruction. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and sometimes pancreatitis.

Biliary strictures are narrowings of the bile ducts which can be benign or cancerous. They cause obstruction of bile flow, leading to jaundice and liver dysfunction.

PBC is a chronic autoimmune disease causing progressive destruction of the small bile ducts within the liver. It leads to cholestasis, fatigue, and itching, and may eventually cause cirrhosis. It primarily affects middle-aged women and is diagnosed through blood tests and liver biopsy.

PSC is a chronic disease characterized by inflammation and scarring of bile ducts inside and outside the liver. It often occurs in association with inflammatory bowel disease and causes progressive bile duct narrowing, leading to cholestasis and liver damage.

Cholestasis refers to impaired bile flow either within the liver (intrahepatic) or outside the liver (extrahepatic). It manifests as jaundice, itching, and fat malabsorption. Causes include liver diseases, bile duct obstruction, or drug effects.

Biliary atresia is a rare congenital condition in infants where bile ducts are absent or blocked, preventing bile flow from the liver to the intestine. It causes jaundice, pale stools, and liver damage. Early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial, often requiring surgical intervention.

Amoebiasis is an infection caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, primarily affecting the intestines but potentially spreading to the liver. Intestinal infection may be asymptomatic or present with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sometimes bloody stools. When the parasite invades the liver, it can cause hepatic abscesses characterized by fever, right upper abdominal pain, and tenderness. The complications can include perforations, widespread infection, and involvement of other organs.

Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the protozoan Giardia lamblia. It commonly presents with watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, and weight loss. The parasite attaches to the intestinal lining, interfering with nutrient absorption and causing gastrointestinal discomfort, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

Helminthic infections involve parasitic worms such as roundworms and tapeworms infecting the gastrointestinal tract. Roundworms may cause abdominal pain, malnutrition, and intestinal obstruction, while tapeworms can lead to nutrient deficiencies and occasionally migrate outside the gut causing systemic symptoms. These infections are often related to contaminated food or water.

Bacterial gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by pathogenic bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. It typically presents with diarrhea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and sometimes fever. The severity ranges from mild to life-threatening, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Viral gastroenteritis is a contagious infection causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines, commonly caused by rotavirus and norovirus. The symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain. It is a leading cause of diarrhea worldwide, especially in children, and spreads rapidly through contaminated food and water.

This condition is an inflammation of the colon caused by overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria, often following antibiotic use. It results in severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes life-threatening complications such as colonic perforation. It is a significant healthcare-associated infection.

Typhoid enteritis is intestinal inflammation caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria, leading to prolonged fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, and sometimes intestinal bleeding or perforation. It is transmitted via contaminated food and water and remains a major health concern in developing countries.

Hydatid cyst disease is caused by the larval stage of the Echinococcus tapeworm, leading to cyst formation in the liver. These cysts grow slowly and may be asymptomatic but can cause abdominal discomfort, liver enlargement, or biliary obstruction. Rupture of cysts can lead to severe allergic reactions or secondary infections.

Mesenteric ischemia occurs when blood flow to the intestines is reduced or blocked, leading to bowel tissue damage. The symptoms include sudden abdominal pain disproportionate to physical findings, nausea, vomiting, and later signs of bowel necrosis. It may be caused by arterial blockage, thrombosis, or low blood flow states. 

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare tumors arising from the muscular layer of the digestive tract, most commonly found in the stomach or small intestine. They may be asymptomatic or cause abdominal pain, bleeding, or obstruction. 

GI vasculitis refers to inflammation of blood vessels supplying the gastrointestinal tract caused by systemic autoimmune diseases like lupus or polyarteritis nodosa. It can present with abdominal pain, bleeding, and malabsorption. The inflammation leads to impaired blood flow and tissue ischemia, which can cause serious GI complications.

Amyloidosis involves abnormal deposition of amyloid proteins in various organs, including the gastrointestinal tract. In the GI tract, it can cause motility issues, malabsorption, bleeding, and weight loss. Diagnosis is confirmed by a tissue biopsy showing amyloid deposits.

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease that can rarely involve the gastrointestinal tract. GI involvement may cause symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, or obstruction due to granuloma formation. 

This rare condition is characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal wall layers causing abdominal pain, malabsorption, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It may involve any part of the GI tract and is associated with allergic or immune system dysfunction.

Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease causing fibrosis of skin and internal organs, including the GI tract. GI involvement leads to motility dysfunction, reflux, malabsorption, and often severe constipation or pseudo-obstruction.

Thyroid and diabetes disorders can affect GI motility and function. Hypothyroidism often reduces gut motility causing constipation, while hyperthyroidism may increase motility causing diarrhea. Diabetes can cause autonomic neuropathy leading to gastroparesis, constipation, or diarrhea.

Infantile gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as frequent spitting up, irritability during feeding, poor weight gain, and respiratory problems. Unlike physiologic reflux common in infants, GERD involves troublesome symptoms or complications. It usually improves by 12 to 18 months of age as the digestive system matures.

It results from reduced lactase enzyme activity, which impairs the digestion of lactose found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gas after consuming lactose-containing foods. It may develop after gastrointestinal infections or as a primary lactose deficiency in certain populations.

Celiac disease in children is an autoimmune disorder triggered by ingestion of gluten, leading to damage of the small intestine lining. Symptoms vary and may include chronic diarrhea, growth failure, abdominal pain, and anemia. Early diagnosis is important to prevent long-term nutritional deficiencies and complications.

Hirschsprung’s disease is a congenital condition characterized by absence of nerve cells in parts of the colon, causing severe constipation or intestinal obstruction. Medical management before surgery focuses on relieving symptoms with bowel decompression, enemas, and preventing infection until definitive surgical correction is performed.

Inflammatory bowel disease in children includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, chronic inflammatory disorders that affect the digestive tract. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and growth delays. The pediatric form may have a more aggressive course, impacting nutrition and development.

Functional constipation is a common childhood problem characterized by infrequent, hard stools and painful defecation without an underlying organic cause. It often develops from withholding behaviors or dietary factors and may lead to abdominal discomfort and fecal impaction.

Hepatitis A and E are viral infections transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, often causing acute liver inflammation in children. Symptoms typically include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and vomiting, with most children recovering fully without chronic liver disease.

Children with gastrointestinal disorders may develop deficiencies of key nutrients including iron, vitamin D, and calcium due to impaired absorption or dietary inadequacies. These deficiencies can lead to anemia, impaired bone growth, and delayed development if not recognized and addressed early.

GERD is a common chronic digestive disorder characterized by the backflow of stomach acids into the esophagus due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter. This reflux causes symptoms like heartburn, chest discomfort, and regurgitation of sour liquid. In some cases, GERD leads to complications such as esophagitis, strictures, or Barrett’s esophagus, requiring lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions for effective management.

Barrett’s esophagus involves abnormal changes in the lining of the esophagus often caused by prolonged acid reflux from GERD. It is marked by the transformation of normal squamous cells into intestinal-type cells, increasing the risk of developing esophageal cancer. Frequently diagnosed in individuals with longstanding GERD, it requires regular monitoring through endoscopy to detect precancerous changes early and prevent progression.

Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophageal lining resulting from acid reflux (reflux esophagitis), infections, or allergic reactions (eosinophilic esophagitis). Some patients may experience chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or a burning sensation.

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, often causing symptoms similar to GERD, such as heartburn and chest discomfort. Many cases are managed conservatively with lifestyle modifications, including diet adjustments, weight management, and medications to control reflux. Surgery might be considered if symptoms persist or complications develop.

Achalasia is a rare motility disorder where the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax properly, causing difficulty in swallowing, chest pain, and regurgitation of food. The diagnosis involves esophageal manometry and imaging. 

Esophageal motility disorders involve abnormal muscle contractions within the esophagus, leading to swallowing difficulties, chest pain, and regurgitation. The conditions like diffuse esophageal spasm or hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter fall under this category. 

An esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophageal lumen caused by scarring, often from chronic acid reflux (peptic stricture) or injury. Some patients experience swallowing difficulty and food impaction.

Functional heartburn is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest without any detectable abnormalities in the esophageal tissue or motility issues. It is often related to visceral hypersensitivity or esophageal nerve sensitivity. Management may include lifestyle modifications, stress reduction, and medications aimed at symptom relief.

Esophageal spasm involves abnormal, simultaneous contractions of esophageal muscles, producing chest pain and difficulty swallowing. It might mimic angina and require diagnostic testing such as manometry. Treatment options range from smooth muscle relaxants to endoscopic or surgical interventions aimed at reducing spasms.

Esophageal webs and rings are thin membranes or bands that protrude into the esophageal lumen, causing partial obstruction and swallowing difficulty. They are often asymptomatic but can lead to food impaction. Endoscopic removal or dilation usually relieves symptoms, and corrective measures are tailored based on the severity.

Viral hepatitis represents inflammation of the liver caused by infection with one of five viruses - A, B, C, D, or E. Each type differs in transmission routes, severity, and chronicity. Symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Some forms are acute and self-limiting, while others may progress to chronic liver disease if untreated.

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic liver disorder where the body's immune system attacks liver cells, causing ongoing inflammation and damage. It can manifest with fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort, often leading to cirrhosis if not diagnosed and managed timely.

Alcoholic liver disease results from excessive alcohol consumption damaging liver cells. It ranges from fatty liver changes to inflammation (alcoholic hepatitis) and ultimately cirrhosis. Early symptoms may include fatigue and abdominal discomfort, progressing to liver dysfunction in advanced stages.

NAFLD occurs when fat accumulates in liver cells in people who drink little or no alcohol. It's associated with metabolic syndrome factors like obesity and diabetes. Although initially silent, it can progress to inflammation and fibrosis, affecting liver function over time.

NASH is an aggressive form of NAFLD involving liver inflammation and damage, which can lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Patients may have few symptoms early on, but are at increased risk for liver-related complications and cardiovascular diseases.

Acute liver failure is a rapid loss of liver function occurring within days or weeks, often in previously healthy individuals. It can lead to severe complications such as brain swelling and coagulopathy. Early recognition and supportive care are critical.

Chronic liver disease denotes progressive liver damage over months to years, resulting from conditions like viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or metabolic diseases. This slow deterioration impairs liver functions, potentially leading to cirrhosis and liver failure.

Cirrhosis is the advanced scarring of liver tissue, disrupting normal structure and function. Compensated cirrhosis means the liver still performs adequately without major symptoms, while decompensated cirrhosis involves complications like ascites, jaundice, and encephalopathy.

Hepatic fibrosis refers to the accumulation of excess connective tissue in the liver due to chronic injury, which can interfere with liver function. It is a reversible stage before cirrhosis if the underlying cause is addressed early.

Portal hypertension is a condition with increased blood pressure within the portal venous system, often due to cirrhosis. It results in complications such as varices and ascites. Medical management aims to reduce pressure and prevent bleeding episodes.

Hepatic encephalopathy is a neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by liver dysfunction, leading to the accumulation of toxins like ammonia in the brain. Symptoms range from confusion and forgetfulness to coma in severe cases.

DILI occurs when medications, supplements, or toxins cause liver damage. It can mimic viral hepatitis or lead to acute liver failure, requiring careful evaluation of drug history.

Wilson’s disease is a genetic disorder causing copper accumulation in the liver and other organs. It presents liver disease, neurological symptoms, or psychiatric disturbances, usually in younger individuals.

Hemochromatosis is an inherited condition characterized by excessive iron absorption and accumulation in tissues, leading to liver damage, diabetes, and heart disease if untreated.

This genetic disorder leads to low levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein, causing liver disease and lung problems due to uninhibited inflammation and tissue damage.

Fatty liver disease associated with metabolic syndrome results from fat deposition linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and dyslipidemia, posing risks of liver inflammation and fibrosis.

Liver abscesses are localized collections of pus due to bacterial (pyogenic) or amoebic infections. The symptoms often include fever, abdominal pain, and elevated inflammatory markers.

Jaundice is the yellowing of skin and eyes caused by elevated bilirubin levels due to liver dysfunction, hemolysis, or bile duct obstruction. It indicates underlying systemic or hepatic issues.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary liver cancer, usually developing in cirrhotic livers. Early stages may be asymptomatic, but later symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice.

Functional dyspepsia is a chronic disorder characterized by persistent or recurrent upper abdominal discomfort or pain without an identifiable organic cause. Common symptoms include bloating, heartburn, early satiety, and nausea, which can significantly impair quality of life. This condition is diagnosed based on symptom criteria after excluding structural diseases, with underlying causes thought to involve altered gut motility, gastric hypersensitivity, and brain-gut interactions.

Functional constipation involves persistent difficulty in passing stool, infrequent bowel movements, and feelings of incomplete evacuation without identifiable structural abnormalities. Functional diarrhea is characterized by frequent loose stools lasting for months with no underlying infection or inflammation. Both are common functional bowel disorders influenced by altered intestinal motility and sensitivity.

This syndrome is marked by chronic, unexplained abdominal pain without any detectable organic disease. The pain is often severe and persistent, sometimes linked with psychological factors affecting pain perception and processing. It can coexist with other functional gastrointestinal disorders, greatly affecting daily activities.

Aerophagia is the excessive swallowing of air that accumulates in the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms such as bloating, belching, and abdominal discomfort. It is often associated with anxiety or abnormal swallowing patterns and may contribute to functional gut disorders.

Intestinal pseudo-obstruction presents as symptoms of bowel obstruction without a mechanical cause, caused by abnormalities in intestinal muscle or nerve function. It causes abdominal pain, distension, and severe constipation or vomiting. 

Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine, typically after gastrectomy or gastric surgery. The symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat shortly after eating, due to rapid fluid shifts and hormonal responses.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes of intense nausea and vomiting separated by symptom-free periods. The exact causes are unclear, but it may be related to migraines or mitochondrial dysfunction and is diagnosed after excluding other causes.

This condition refers to frequent loose stools occurring after gallbladder removal. It may result from altered bile flow into the intestines and changes in gut motility or microbiota and typically occurs within weeks to months after surgery.

These disorders involve abnormal muscle contractions and nerve control in the gastrointestinal tract leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, constipation, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Examples include esophageal achalasia and chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, affecting digestion and quality of life.

Malnutrition arising as a consequence of gastrointestinal diseases occurs due to impaired digestion, absorption, or increased nutrient losses. Conditions such as chronic inflammation, malabsorption syndromes, and infections disrupt normal nutrient uptake, leading to deficiencies in macronutrients and micronutrients essential for growth and repair.

These essential nutrients are often deficient in gastrointestinal disorders that impair absorption. Vitamin B12 absorption primarily occurs in the ileum, iron in the duodenum, and folate in the proximal small intestine. Deficiencies can result in anemia, neurological symptoms, and fatigue, reflecting underlying malabsorption syndromes or mucosal damage.

Reduced blood albumin levels from protein loss through the gastrointestinal tract occur in conditions like protein-losing enteropathy. This leads to edema, muscle wasting, and compromised immune function, indicating significant disruption in nutrient retention and absorption.

Obesity predisposes individuals to various gastrointestinal problems, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), gallbladder disease, and altered gut microbiota. These disorders complicate digestive health and contribute to systemic inflammation and metabolic imbalances.

NAFLD is the accumulation of fat in liver cells without significant alcohol intake, closely linked to metabolic syndrome. NASH is a severe form characterized by liver inflammation and fibrosis. Both conditions can progress silently, potentially leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer over time.

Steatorrhea is the excretion of excess fat in stool due to ineffective digestion or absorption, often caused by pancreatic insufficiency, bile salt deficiency, or intestinal mucosal diseases. It presents as bulky, foul-smelling, and oily stools, indicating malabsorption with nutrient loss.

Chronic diarrhea leads to significant loss of water and electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate, causing dehydration and acid-base disturbances. Persistent electrolyte imbalances can impair cellular functions and require vigilant assessment in chronic GI diseases.

Nutrient deficiencies after bariatric surgery result from reduced absorption due to anatomical and physiological changes in the gastrointestinal tract. Common deficiencies include iron, vitamin B12, calcium, and fat-soluble vitamins, necessitating careful monitoring to prevent complications.

Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining, which may develop suddenly (acute) or persist over time (chronic). Acute gastritis often results from infections, alcohol, or medications such as NSAIDs, while chronic forms are linked to long-term Helicobacter pylori infection or autoimmune conditions. Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and discomfort after meals. Chronic inflammation can lead to thinning of the stomach lining and an increased risk of ulcers.

Peptic ulcer disease involves the formation of open sores in the inner lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers) or the upper small intestine (duodenal ulcers). These ulcers develop when stomach acid damages the mucosal barrier, often due to H. pylori infection or prolonged use of NSAIDs. The patients may experience burning pain in the upper abdomen, which worsens or improves with food intake. Complications can include bleeding, perforation, or scarring that narrows the digestive tract.

Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that colonizes the stomach lining and is a major cause of chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. It triggers inflammation by disrupting the mucosal defense barrier, leading to acid injury. In some individuals, long-standing infection may increase the risk of gastric cancer or mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Eradication of the infection helps prevent recurrence of ulcers and long-term complications.

Functional dyspepsia is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic upper abdominal discomfort or pain without any identifiable structural cause. It is often related to abnormal gut sensitivity, delayed gastric emptying, or stress. Symptoms may include early fullness, bloating, belching, or mild nausea. Although benign, the persistent nature of the condition can significantly impact quality of life.

Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach empties food into the small intestine more slowly than normal, despite no physical blockage. It is commonly associated with diabetes but can also occur without a known cause (idiopathic). Patients often report nausea, vomiting, bloating, and a feeling of fullness after small meals. Over time, it can interfere with nutrition and blood sugar control, particularly in diabetic individuals.

Zollinger–Ellison Syndrome is a rare condition caused by gastrin-secreting tumors (gastrinomas), usually located in the pancreas or duodenum. These tumors stimulate excessive acid production, leading to multiple or recurrent peptic ulcers and severe heartburn. Patients may also experience chronic diarrhea and weight loss due to acid-induced damage to the intestinal lining. It is often associated with genetic endocrine disorders such as MEN-1 syndrome.

Prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can irritate the stomach lining, reducing protective mucus and leading to inflammation or ulceration. This results in symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and burning discomfort in the upper abdomen. In severe cases, NSAID-induced injury may cause bleeding or perforation, especially in older adults or those with a history of ulcers.

Postprandial distress syndrome is a subtype of functional dyspepsia marked by persistent fullness, bloating, or discomfort after meals. The condition arises from impaired gastric accommodation - the stomach’s ability to relax and expand after eating. Even small meals can cause distress, leading to reduced appetite and weight loss in chronic cases. It is non-ulcerative but can mimic more serious upper gastrointestinal disorders.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding refers to bleeding originating from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. Common medical causes include peptic ulcers, erosive gastritis, esophageal varices, and H. pylori infection. Patients may present with vomiting of blood (hematemesis), black stools (melena), or weakness from anemia. Early medical stabilization and endoscopic evaluation are critical to prevent recurrence and manage the underlying cause.

Gastrointestinal bleeding refers to blood loss occurring anywhere in the digestive tract, categorized as upper or lower based on location. Upper GI bleeding commonly results from peptic ulcers or varices and presents with vomiting blood or black tarry stools. Lower GI bleeding often arises from diverticulosis, angioectasia, or inflammatory conditions, manifesting as bright red blood per rectum. 

Acute liver failure involves rapid deterioration of liver function in individuals without pre-existing liver disease, leading to coagulopathy, encephalopathy, and multi-organ dysfunction. It can develop within days to weeks from causes such as drug toxicity, viral hepatitis, or autoimmune triggers. The condition requires close monitoring due to its potentially fatal complications.

Severe gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines characterized by profuse diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. It often leads to significant dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and sometimes shock, particularly in vulnerable populations like infants and the elderly.

Acute pancreatitis is an abrupt inflammation of the pancreas marked by severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzymes. The condition results from premature enzyme activation, causing pancreatic tissue injury and can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening systemic complications.

It is a neurological disorder caused by liver dysfunction, leading to the accumulation of neurotoxic substances such as ammonia. Symptoms vary from mild cognitive impairment and confusion to profound coma. It often occurs in the setting of advanced liver disease or acute liver failure.

Drug-induced hepatotoxicity refers to liver injury caused by medications, supplements, or toxins, leading to a spectrum ranging from asymptomatic liver enzyme elevation to acute liver failure. It is a leading cause of liver disease in developed countries, necessitating careful evaluation of drug history in suspected cases.

Electrolyte imbalances often arise due to excessive loss of fluids through vomiting, diarrhea, or intestinal drainage. Common disturbances include hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, which may cause muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and neurological symptoms if severe.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits without structural abnormalities. It is caused by a combination of factors, including gut hypersensitivity, stress, altered motility, and changes in intestinal microbiota. IBS is classified into constipation-predominant, diarrhea-predominant, and mixed types, with symptoms often fluctuating over time. Although not life-threatening, it significantly impacts daily activities and quality of life.

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that includes two major types — Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both conditions cause episodes of flare-ups and remission, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. IBD can result in long-term complications such as bleeding, malnutrition, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, most commonly involving the terminal ileum and colon. Inflammation extends through the full thickness of the bowel wall, leading to ulcers, strictures, and fistulas. Patients often experience chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies. The relapsing nature of the disease makes long-term medical management essential.

Ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum, causing continuous inflammation of the mucosal layer. It typically begins in the rectum and extends upward in a uniform pattern. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, urgency, and abdominal cramping. Over time, persistent inflammation may cause complications such as anemia, dehydration, and an increased risk of colorectal malignancy.

Microscopic colitis is an inflammatory condition of the colon that causes chronic watery diarrhea but appears normal on endoscopy. Diagnosis is confirmed by microscopic examination of biopsy samples, showing either lymphocytic or collagenous changes. The disease is more common in older adults and may be associated with autoimmune conditions or certain medications. It usually follows a benign course but can cause persistent discomfort and dehydration.

Diverticular disease occurs when small pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of the colon, usually due to weakness in the muscle layer. Diverticulosis refers to the presence of these pouches, while diverticulitis occurs when they become inflamed or infected. Symptoms include left lower abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. Most cases are uncomplicated but may occasionally lead to abscess or bleeding if untreated.

Colorectal polyps are small growths that arise from the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most are benign, some may develop into cancer over time. Polyps are often asymptomatic and are detected during screening colonoscopy. Endoscopic removal of polyps prevents progression to colorectal cancer and remains one of the most effective preventive strategies in gastrointestinal practice.

Constipation is defined by infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, or difficulty in passing stool. It may result from inadequate fiber intake, dehydration, medication side effects, or sedentary habits. Functional or chronic constipation often stems from slow intestinal motility or pelvic floor dysfunction. Persistent constipation can cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and straining, affecting daily wellbeing.

Diarrhea refers to frequent, loose, or watery stools and can be caused by infections, medications, food intolerances, or intestinal disorders. Acute diarrhea is typically infectious, while chronic cases may arise from inflammatory, malabsorptive, or functional conditions. Prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and malnutrition, requiring evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Proctitis is inflammation of the rectal mucosa caused by infection, radiation therapy, autoimmune disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms include rectal pain, bleeding, mucus discharge, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Chronic inflammation may lead to ulceration or narrowing of the rectal passage, necessitating long-term follow-up.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal canal that cause discomfort, itching, bleeding, or swelling during bowel movements. In mild to moderate cases, medical therapy with fiber supplements, topical agents, and lifestyle changes provides relief. Endoscopic procedures such as rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy are used to treat persistent bleeding or prolapsing hemorrhoids without the need for surgery.

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal, commonly caused by hard stools or excessive straining. It produces sharp pain and minor bleeding during defecation. Chronic fissures may be associated with sphincter spasm, which delays healing. Medical therapy with stool softeners, topical relaxants, and dietary modifications usually leads to symptom improvement.

Fecal incontinence is the involuntary loss of bowel control resulting in unintentional passage of stool. It may result from weakened anal muscles, nerve injury, or chronic diarrhea. The patients often report embarrassment, social withdrawal, and reduced quality of life. Management focuses on bowel regulation, dietary modification, and pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding refers to bleeding originating from the colon or rectum. Common causes include diverticulosis, angiodysplasia, hemorrhoids, or inflammatory bowel disease. Patients may notice fresh blood in stools or experience symptoms of anemia. Prompt identification and stabilization are essential, with most cases managed medically or endoscopically.

Excessive gas and bloating occur due to air swallowing, fermentation of undigested carbohydrates, or altered gut motility. Functional causes such as irritable bowel syndrome and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth are frequent contributors. The patients often describe abdominal fullness, discomfort, and visible distension after meals. Although not dangerous, these symptoms can be persistent and socially distressing.

Acute pancreatitis is an abrupt inflammation of the pancreas that manifests with severe upper abdominal pain often radiating to the back. The symptoms commonly include nausea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal tenderness. The inflammation results from premature enzyme activation leading to pancreatic tissue destruction, which can cause systemic inflammatory response, organ failure, and local complications like pseudocysts or necrosis. Severity ranges from mild to life-threatening, with early recognition being crucial for management.

Chronic pancreatitis involves long-term inflammation leading to irreversible damage of the pancreatic tissue. The patients often experience persistent abdominal pain, weight loss, and signs of malabsorption such as oily stools. Over time, it impairs both the exocrine function, causing digestive issues, and the endocrine function, potentially resulting in diabetes. Long-standing inflammation promotes fibrosis and loss of pancreatic cells.

Autoimmune pancreatitis is a rare form of chronic inflammation caused by the immune system attacking the pancreas. It can mimic pancreatic cancer with symptoms like jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain. This subtype typically responds to immunosuppressive therapy, but diagnosis is based on specific imaging, blood markers, and histology.

Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop within or around the pancreas, often after episodes of pancreatitis. Pseudocysts, a common type, result from enzyme-rich fluid collection due to tissue necrosis. These cysts may remain asymptomatic but can cause bloating or pain if they enlarge; in some cases, they may need drainage or surgical intervention.

EPI occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes, resulting in poor digestion and malnutrition. The patients may present with weight loss, diarrhea, and steatorrhea (oily, foul-smelling stools). It often develops in chronic pancreatitis or after pancreatic surgery.

Obstruction of the pancreatic duct can occur due to stones, strictures, or tumors, impairing normal enzyme flow and causing inflammation. This can lead to pain, jaundice, and recurrent pancreatitis episodes. Obstructions are often diagnosed through imaging and may require endoscopic procedures to relieve the blockage.

These can be benign or malignant, with pancreatic adenocarcinoma being the most aggressive common type. Early-stage tumors may be asymptomatic, but advanced disease often presents with jaundice, weight loss, and abdominal pain.