A Hernia is when an internal structure protrudes through a weakness in the tissue that normally contains it. It most often involves abdominal contents pushing through the abdominal wall or diaphragm. Clinicians use the term Hernia to describe both a physical finding and a diagnosis that can explain symptoms. It is commonly discussed in gastroenterology, general surgery, and gastrointestinal (GI) imaging.
Abdominal Distension means a visible or measurable increase in abdominal size or girth. It is a clinical sign that can be noticed by the patient, caregivers, or clinicians on exam. It is commonly used in gastroenterology, hepatology, emergency medicine, and general surgery. It often prompts evaluation for gas, fluid, stool burden, organ enlargement, or intra-abdominal mass.
Tenesmus is the distressing sensation of needing to pass stool even when the rectum is empty. It is commonly described as “incomplete evacuation” with repeated urges to defecate. Clinicians use the term in gastroenterology and colorectal practice as a symptom descriptor. It can also be used more broadly for similar “persistent urge” sensations in the pelvis.
Fecal Incontinence means involuntary loss of stool or inability to control bowel movements when socially appropriate. It ranges from small leakage (soiling) to complete loss of formed stool. It is a symptom and clinical diagnosis used in gastroenterology, colorectal surgery, geriatrics, neurology, and pelvic floor care. It is discussed in clinics, hospitals, nursing facilities, and rehabilitation settings because it affects quality of life and skin health.
Bilious Vomiting means vomiting that contains bile and is often described as green or yellow-green. It is a clinical description of emesis (vomit), not a diagnosis by itself. The term is commonly used in emergency care, pediatrics, gastroenterology, and gastrointestinal (GI) surgery.
Acholic Stool refers to stool that is very pale, clay-colored, or putty-colored. It usually reflects reduced or absent bile pigment reaching the intestine. The term is used most often in hepatology and gastroenterology to describe a clinical sign. It is discussed in both adult and pediatric settings, including newborn screening.
Pyloric Stenosis is a narrowing at the pylorus, the outlet of the stomach into the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It most commonly refers to hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in infants, where the pyloric muscle thickens and blocks gastric emptying. The term is also used in adults to describe pyloric narrowing from scarring, inflammation, or masses that cause gastric outlet obstruction. Clinicians use it in gastroenterology, pediatrics, emergency care, radiology, and GI surgery when evaluating persistent non-bilious vomiting.
Zenker Diverticulum is a pouch that forms at the top of the esophagus, just behind the throat. It develops when the inner lining bulges through a weak area in the pharyngeal wall. It can collect food and saliva, which may lead to swallowing symptoms and regurgitation. Clinicians use the term in gastroenterology, otolaryngology, radiology, and GI surgery to describe a specific cause of dysphagia.
Dumping Syndrome is a set of symptoms caused by unusually rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine. It most often occurs after surgeries that change the stomach or the connection between the stomach and small bowel. Clinicians use the term to describe a recognizable pattern of post-meal gastrointestinal and vasomotor symptoms.
Short Bowel Syndrome is a condition where too little functional small intestine remains to absorb enough water, electrolytes, and nutrients. It most often happens after surgical removal (resection) of the small bowel, but can also reflect severely reduced intestinal function. Clinicians use the term in gastroenterology, gastrointestinal (GI) surgery, nutrition support, and pediatrics. It helps frame evaluation and long-term planning for malabsorption and intestinal failure.