Anatomy Glossary

a backflow of contents of the stomach into the esophagus that is often the result of [a problem with the] esophageal sphincter. Gastric juices are acidic and therefore produce burning pain in the esophagus. (Source)

Also called acid reflux, or heartburn.

A system of the human body that digests food, extracts energy, nutrients and water, and excretes waste.

enlarged veins in the anus or lower rectum. They often go unnoticed and usually clear up after a few days, but can cause long-lasting discomfort, bleeding and be excruciatingly painful. Also called piles. (Source)

Inflammation of the liver, due usually to viral infection but sometimes to toxic agents. (Source)

The third portion of the small intestine, about 3.6 m (12 ft) in length, extending from the jejunum to the cecum. (Source)

A localized protective reaction of tissue to irritation, injury, or infection, characterized by pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes loss of function. (Source)

Any of several chronic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, especially Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the intestine and resulting in abdominal cramping and diarrhea. (Source)

a common intestinal condition characterized by abdominal pain and cramps; changes in bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, or both); gassiness; bloating; nausea; and other symptoms...Dietary changes, drugs, and psychological treatment are often able to eliminate or substantially reduce its symptoms. Also called spastic colon, spastic bowel, and functional bowel disorder. (Source)

The length of small intestine lying between the duodenum and the ileum and occupying the central part of the abdomen. Much of the enzymatic digestion of food, and most of the absorption, takes place in the jejunum. (Source)

the part of the digestive tract comprising the cecum; appendix; colon (the ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colons);and rectum (Source).

Also called large bowel. (Source).