Introduction Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat gallbladder disease. Your gallbladder is a small organ located in your right upper abdomen. Your gallbladder works with your liver and pancreas to produce bile and digestive enzymes…

Introduction Laparoscopic appendectomy is an advanced minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to remove the appendix in people with appendicitis. Your appendix is a small growth that extends off your large intestine. Although the appendix has no known purpose,…

Introduction Lacerations are cuts or scratches that cause a skin wound. Lacerations that are not deep can heal with home treatments. Deep severe lacerations require medical treatment, such as stitches to close the wound and promote healing. Steps should be…

Introduction Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a very common gastrointestinal (GI) disorder. It is also referred to as nervous indigestion, spastic colon, and functional bowel disease. IBS is defined by the symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea or constipation for…

Introduction Insomnia is the inability to achieve a restful and sustained night’s sleep. You may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early in the morning. A lack of sleep may make you feel tired during the…

Introduction Itching and swelling from insect stings annoy millions of Americans each year. For some people, stings from certain insects can cause allergic reactions. While most stinging insects do not cause an allergic reaction, honeybees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, and…

Introduction Ingrown toenails are a common condition in adults. They occur when the corner of a toenail grows into the skin or when the skin grows over the toenail. Ingrown toenails cause pain and swelling. If left untreated, they can…

Introduction Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes inflammatory damage in the lining of the rectum and colon. The primary symptoms of ulcerative colitis include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea. The cause of ulcerative…

Introduction Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease. It is believed to result when the immune system, which usually fights diseases, attacks the cells in the GI tract. When the cells in the digestive system are attacked, the…

Introduction Indigestion is a common condition and affects people of all ages. Indigestion can occur for many reasons. Cigarette smoking and the consumption of certain foods, medications, and alcohol can contribute to indigestion. Indigestion can be a symptom of stress.…