Doctor-informed health articles in clear English about symptoms, tests, procedures, treatment decisions and recovery.
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves through the diaphragm. It may contribute to reflux but does not explain every episode of chest discomfort or indigestion.
IBS commonly causes recurrent abdominal pain linked with altered stool frequency or form. Diagnosis uses a positive symptom pattern while checking…
A stomach or duodenal ulcer may cause upper abdominal pain, but some first present with bleeding. Black stool, vomiting blood or…
Upper endoscopy examines the food pipe, stomach and duodenum; colonoscopy examines the rectum and colon. Symptoms and the clinical question determine…
Persistent bloating may relate to swallowed air, constipation, food intolerance, IBS or another digestive condition. Warning signs and a structured history…
An anal abscess is an infected cavity that often causes acute pain and swelling; an anal fistula is a persistent tunnel…
Anal fistula surgery is selected according to tract anatomy and sphincter involvement. The central goal is to heal the fistula while…
A recurrent anal fistula may result from a hidden branch, persistent internal opening, new abscess or underlying bowel inflammation. MRI often…
An inguinal hernia often appears as a groin swelling that becomes more noticeable with standing, coughing or lifting. Sudden pain with…
An adult umbilical hernia produces a bulge at or near the navel. Pain, enlargement or a lump that becomes trapped may…
Mesh reinforces a hernia repair and can reduce recurrence in many settings, but it is not automatically required for every defect.…
Recovery after hernia surgery depends on the type and size of repair, open or minimally invasive access, pain control, complications and…
