(UC; Colitis, Ulcerative)

Ulcerative colitis – Definition

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of severe, chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which causes:

• Inflammation
• Ulcers
• Bleeding in the lining of the colon and rectum

Cholera – Definition

Cholera is an infectious disease that affects the intestinal tract. It is rare today in industrialized countries. However, it has caused severe epidemics in the past, and continues to be a major public health problem throughout the world in underdeveloped countries. If left untreated, it may cause death within hours.

(Celiac Sprue; Nontropical Sprue; Gluten-Sensitive Enteropathy)

Celiac disease – Definition

Celiac is an autoimmune disease of the digestive tract. With Celiac, eating food with gluten damages little protrusions in the small intestine. These protrusions, called villi, absorb nutrients from foods. The condition affects absorption of all nutrients. Untreated patients often become malnourished.

Inner circle demonstrates little protrusions affected by Celiac disease.

Appendicitis – Definition

The appendix is a small, tube-like organ that hangs from the large intestine. Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The appendix has no known function.

(Hernia, Groin—Adult; Hernia, Inguinal—Adult; Inguinal Hernia—Adult)

Groin Hernia – Definition

A groin hernia is an external bulge in the groin area that contains fat, connective tissue, and/or a portion of intestine. There are two main types:

• Inguinal hernia — occurs when there is a weak spot in the area where the abdomen meets the thigh on both sides (most common type)
• Femoral hernia — occurs less frequently, located in the upper thigh

A groin hernia that pushes through the abdominal wall can trap a section of intestine. This can lead to an emergency where the intestine is blocked or strangled.