X ray of the rectum, colon, and lower part of the small intestine. A barium enema is given first. Barium coats the insides of organs so they will show up on the x ray. Also called lower GI series.

A chalky liquid used to coat the inside of organs so they will show up on an x ray.

A liver disease in which the body

Chronic irritation of the stomach lining that causes loss of the stomach lining and glands.

A lack of normal muscle tone or strength in the colon. It may result in chronic constipation. Also called lazy colon.

The condition of having a disease but none of its symptoms.

A virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea within 1 to 3 days of exposure and is most active during the winter months. It infects primarily infants, young children, and older adults.

A buildup of fluid in the abdomen usually caused by severe liver disease such as cirrhosis.

The beginning part of the colon, usually on the right side of the abdomen.

A 4-inch pouch attached to the cecum, the first part of the large intestine. The appendix

Inflammation of the appendix.

An operation to remove the appendix.

Programmed cell death, the body’s normal method of disposing of damaged, unwanted, or unneeded cells.

The opening at the end of the digestive tract where bowel contents leave the body.

The lower part of the stomach, which is lined with mucus and produces gastrin.