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Gastroenterology

Expert answers from Gastroenterology physicians on health concerns and treatment options

Questions & Answers

437 articles

Q

Why does my poop smell sweet?

Sweet-smelling poop may happen when changes in your body, such as high blood sugar or shifts in your gut bacteria, cause unusual chemicals to be made during digestion.

Q

Why might I experience a feeling of fullness in the anus?

A feeling of fullness in the anus may be caused by conditions such as enlarged hemorrhoids, changes from an enlarged rectum, or an anal fissure. Each of these can put pressure or cause irritation in the area, leading to that uncomfortable sensation.

Q

Why might I feel a sense of fullness in my stomach even when I haven't eaten?

Feeling a full stomach even when you haven't eaten can happen when your belly fills with gas or fluids, or because your stomach and gut aren’t moving food and air as quickly as they should.

Q

Why might my stomach feel empty even after eating?

Sometimes, your stomach might feel empty even after eating because of changes in how your stomach moves food or sends signals to your brain. Conditions like gastroparesis or functional dyspepsia can affect normal stomach function.

Q

Why might stools be hard to pass even if I'm not constipated?

Sometimes stool can become hard even without constipation because factors like not getting enough water or fiber, medications, or how your body moves food through can change stool texture.

Q

Why might wiping after a bowel movement feel incomplete and what can be done about it?

Feeling like you didn’t wipe completely can come from leftover stool or a change in how your rectum and anus feel. Changing your cleaning technique, diet, or even discussing it with a doctor may help.

Q

What is the life expectancy for stage 3 and stage 4 cirrhosis?

The life expectancy for individuals with cirrhosis varies significantly between stages 3 and 4. Generally, patients with stage 3 cirrhosis have a better prognosis than those with stage 4 cirrhosis, as the latter is associated with more severe liver damage and complications.

Q

How can I soothe a burning anus after diarrhea?

Soothe burning sensations in the anus after diarrhea by using gentle cleansing methods, applying soothing creams, and making dietary adjustments. These steps can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

Q

What are the possible causes of abdominal pain?

Causes of abdominal pain run the gamut from benign to life-threatening. It may be a pulled or strained abdominal wall muscle, damaged nerve, broken bone or issues with internal organs.

Q

What are the possible causes of stomach ache when lying down on your back facing up?

Stomach pain in the back when lying down facing up can be a result of stomach gas/bloating, positional discomfort or less commonly a disease of the pancreas and surrounding organs.

Q

When I feel pain in the left side of the abdomen, what are some possible causes?

A wide ranges of diseases can cause left-sided abdominal pain that often involve the underlying organs in that area.

Q

When should I start worrying about constipation?

If you haven't had a bowel movement for more than 5-7 days and also have pain, nausea or even vomiting, please seek further medical attention.

Q

When should I see a doctor for an upset stomach?

Generally, you should see a doctor if you are: 1. Unable to keep any liquids down for more than a day at a time 2. Develop fevers and intensely worsening abdominal pain 3. Notice blood in your stools or vomit.

Q

How can daily habits improve an upset stomach?

Eat in moderation, avoid heavy drinking and exercise moderately.

Q

What are the possible causes of an upset stomach?

Commonly, an upset stomach is caused by gas or bloating from benign causes like poor digestion of certain foods or additives.

Q

How is crohn's disease diagnosed or detected?

Crohn's disease is diagnosed by a combination of endoscopy (internal camera that looks at the stomach, intestines) and MRI or CT scans. Blood and stool samples will also be tested.

Q

Is a colonoscopy painful?

Most people have little to no pain with a colonoscopy. Patients who have had colon surgery or women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of their uterus) are at higher risk of experiencing pain.

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