DICTIONARY

A buildup of galactose in the blood caused by the lack of one of the enzymes needed to break down galactose.

A type of sugar in milk products and sugar beets. The body also makes galactose.

A mold or yeast such as Candida that may cause infection.

Disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome that are of unknown cause. Symptoms such as gas, pain, constipation, and diarrhea come back repeatedly but without signs of disease or damage. Emotional stress can trigger symptoms. Also called motility disorders.

Liver failure that occurs suddenly in a previously healthy person. The most common causes of FHF are acute hepatitis, acetaminophen overdose, and liver damage from prescription drugs.

An acute gastrointestinal infection caused by food that contains harmful bacteria or toxins. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and chills.

Gas passed through the rectum.

Excessive gas in the stomach or intestine that can cause bloating and flatus.

An abnormal passage between two organs, or between an organ and the outside of the body, caused when damaged tissues come into contact and join together while healing.

A substance in foods that comes from plants. Fiber helps keep stool soft so that it moves smoothly through the colon. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and is found in beans, fruit, and oat products. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve ...

The process of bacteria breaking down undigested food and releasing alcohols, acids, and gases.

The solid waste that passes through the rectum as a bowel movement. Feces are undigested food, bacteria, mucus, and dead cells. Also called stool.

A test to see whether there is blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. A sample of stool is placed on a chemical strip that changes color if blood is present. Hidden blood in the ...

Being unable to hold stool in the colon and rectum.

A test to measure the body