An anal fissure is a small tear or open sore in the lining of the rectum. It can cause pain and bleeding when passing a bowel movement, particularly if the stool is large or dry.

Appendicitis is an infection of the appendix, a tube-shaped sac located at the beginning of the large bowel. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever and unwellness. Appendicitis can quickly become serious, so if you’re concerned it is important to see a doctor early. It is commonly treated by surg...

Barrett's oesophagus occurs when the cells lining the oesophagus – the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach – change from a type of cell called squamous into columnar (cells more typical of the stomach and small intestine), due to damage from acid reflux.

Bowel cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the large intestine or rectum. Also known as colon cancer or colorectal cancer, bowel cancer can interfere with bowel function and spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver and lungs.

Bowel obstruction occurs when you have a complete or partial blockage of your bowel, stopping liquids, solids and gas passing through your small or large intestine. This can cause severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and vomiting. Bowel obstruction requires prompt medical assessment.

Coeliac disease is diagnosed when the body's immune system responds inappropriately to gluten, a protein found in wheat. This results in the inner surface of the small intestine becoming inflamed. A life-long gluten free diet is the main treatment.

Constipation is a common condition, in which bowel movements are not regular and stools become difficult to pass. There are many causes. Treatments include drinking more fluids, a diet high in fibre, more physical activity and, when needed, medications.

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel condition that mainly affects the intestines. The main symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal cramping and tiredness. Although there is no known cure, Crohn’s disease can be managed with medications, dietary measures and, in some cases, surgery.

Diarrhoea is a common digestive complaint that involves frequent, urgent, and watery bowel movements. Although most cases clear up at home without much treatment, be aware that diarrhea can lead to severe dehydration, especially in children and the elderly.

Diverticulitis is where abnormal pouches form in the wall of the large intestines and become infected. It presents as abdominal pain, fever and unwellness. Treatment is important to prevent further complications.

Gallstones are usually small stones formed in your gallbladder, which is an organ that stores bile to help digest food. They can cause problems if they get stuck at the opening of the gallbladder or pass beyond.

Gastritis describes a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the stomach lining. It occasionally causes symptoms like reduced hunger, nausea and indigestion, but in most cases doesn't produce symptoms at all. Gastritis usually isn’t dangerous and generally improves with treatment.

Gastroenteritis is a common condition sometimes called ‘gastro’ or ‘stomach flu’. The main symptoms are diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Most people are at risk of developing it at some point in their lives.

Haemochromatosis is a hereditary condition that causes your body to absorb too much iron from your diet. Over time it accumulates in tissues and certain organs, including your heart, liver and pancreas. If undetected and untreated, this excess iron can damage tissues and organs.

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum, which can hang down outside the anus. They are often caused by constipation and straining, obesity, heavy lifting or pregnancy. They may be uncomfortable but are not usually serious.

Heartburn, also known as GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid or contents travel from the stomach back up the oesophagus, usually into the mouth. There are numerous treatments to help alleviate symptoms.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, which has numerous causes. In many cases, hepatitis goes away by itself after a few weeks. In other cases hepatitis can be a long-term condition.

Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common cause of anaemia, which is a deficiency in the quality or number of red blood cells. It may be caused by blood loss, decreased iron absorption, pregnancy or other causes. Your doctor will help work out the cause and appropriate treatment.

Irritable bowel syndrome is an unpredictable condition where the exact cause is often unknown. Stress, previous food-related illness and certain food types seem to trigger attacks. Working with your doctor to pinpoint triggers may help manage the condition.

Lactose intolerance is a condition in which your body cannot properly digest lactose, a natural substance found in milk. This occurs in people when they do not have enough of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose. Lactose intolerance can cause abdominal pain, bloating, wind and sometimes ...

Oesophageal cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the tissues of the oesophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Abnormal cells can form a tumour, leading to problems with swallowing food, and can spread through the body.

Rectal bleeding is usually due to small anal tears or haemorrhoids, but can also be caused by a bowel condition. Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of colon cancer, so it needs to be investigated by a doctor. It is very common, so do not be embarrassed about discussing it with your doctor.

Stomach cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the tissues of the stomach. Abnormal cells can form tumours and interfere with the function of the stomach. They may also spread to other parts of the body.

Traveller's diarrhoea is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract that mainly affects travellers, typically due to poor sanitation. It usually causes urgent and frequent diarrhoea. This can be unpleasant and potentially lead to dehydration. It is important to keep hydrated and medications may b...

Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that mainly affects the large intestine, causing inflammation and ulcers that can lead to bleeding. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the part of the bowel affected. Lifestyle measures can also help reduce flare-ups.