Diseases & Conditions Archive

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland falls short in producing hormones that regulate functions such as metabolism, heart rate, and digestion. Symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, menstrual irregularities, forgetfulness, dry skin and hair, and feeling cold.

Most people think of heartburn when they think of GERD. But there are several other symptoms. Learn 9 symptoms of this chronic condition and how to prevent them. 

It's common for indigestion to become more frequent and severe with age, a condition called chronic dyspepsia or recurring indigestion. While most flare-ups can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, people can stop recurring problems by adopting lifestyle measures, such as reducing stress, avoiding excess alcohol, quitting smoking, losing extra weight, and eating smaller meals.

Eating certain foods sometimes triggers indigestion or heartburn symptoms, particularly as people age. For example, consuming foods with certain natural sugars such as lactose may lead to cramping, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Eating peppers, tomato sauces, and many other foods can worsen heartburn caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When one must remove trigger foods from the diet, there are alternatives that can also be satisfying, such as lactose-free dairy products. When removing a food isn't possible, some tricks—such as adding a dollop of sour cream—can help reduce the heat in spicy dishes.

After removal of precancerous growths (polyps) in the colon, return for a follow-up colon exam in three, five, or 10 years, depending on the number and types of growths that the doctor found and removed. A healthy diet can help prevent cancer.

More than half of US adults over 60 have diverticulosis, a condition where part of the wall of the colon bulges outward and forms tiny pouches. Diverticulosis does not cause symptoms, but if a pouch becomes inflamed or infected it becomes diverticulitis, which can be mild or more serious.