Category: Ga-Gh

  • Gastrointestinal tract

    The stomach and intestines. Abbreviated GI tract.

  • Gastrointestinal

    Adjective referring collectively to the stomach and small and large intestines. The commonly used abbreviation for gastrointestinal is GI. (Outside of medicine, GI can also stand for galvanized iron, general issue or government issue – as in GI Joe).

  • Gastroesophageal reflux

    The return of stomach contents back up into the esophagus This frequently causes heartburn because of irritation of the esophagus by stomach acid. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to scarring and stricture of the esophagus, requiring stretching (dilating) of the esophagus. 10% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease develop Barrett’s esophagus which increases the risk of cancer of the esophagus. 80% of patients with…

  • Gastroesophageal

    Pertaining to both the stomach and the esophagus, as in the gastroesophageal junction, the place where the esophagus connects to the stomach.

  • Gastroenterology

    The medical specialty devoted to the study, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the digestive system. These disorders may affect the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. Gastroenterology is popularly (and incorrectly) known as “GI” (which stands for gastrointestinal).

  • Gastroenteritis

    Inflammation of the stomach and the intestines. Gastroenteritis can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Gastroenteritis has numerous causes, including infections (viruses, bacteria, and parasites), food poisoning, and stress.

  • Gastritis

    Inflammation of the stomach.

  • Gastric ulcer

    A hole in the lining of the stomach corroded by the acidic digestive juices which are secreted by the stomach cells. Ulcer formation is related to H. pyloridus bacteria in the stomach, anti-inflammatory medications, and smoking cigarettes. Ulcer pain may not correlate with the presence or severity of ulceration. Diagnosis is made with barium x-ray or with the use…

  • Gastric

    Having to do with the stomach.

  • Gas exchange

    The primary function of the lungs involving the transfer of oxygen from inhaled air into the blood and the transfer of carbon dioxide from the blood into the exhaled air.