gastrointestinal conditions library

Digestive acids that end up in the wrong place can cause heartburn and stomach ulcers. Find out what happens and causes those painful burning sensations.

Featured Article: Heartburn

Heartburn is experienced as a painful burning sensation in the chest. This animation shows what happens to the digestive tract when digestive acids reach the esophagus from the stomach. See more »

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5 Acid Reflux Myths

The digestive system is a bit like a toilet. When everything works properly, we have a tendency to take it for granted. The second that something goes haywire, however, it's impossible to ignore.

5 Lifestyle Tips for GERD Sufferers

GERD is a constant tormentor for those who have it. After all, no one likes the taste of stomach acid. Luckily, treating it isn't just about meds -- you can take control and make some changes of your own.

5 Signs You Should See the Doctor for Your Heartburn

Heartburn may seem like just another unpleasant thing to endure, much like taxes, rush hour traffic and the contents of a baby's diaper. But when should you bite the bullet and make a doctor's appointment?

Have people ever really eaten tapeworms for weight loss?

In recent history, rumors have circulated that if a person were to intentionally swallow a tapeworm the excess pounds would simply melt away. Could a tapeworm be the weight-loss solution that you're looking for?

What foods are the worst for acid reflux?

While many of us abstain from foods simply to keep our weight down, those with acid reflux often have to abstain from certain foods to keep their stomach acid down. Which are the most likely culprits?

What's the difference between heartburn and acid reflux?

You're enjoying a big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs until it feels like someone is stabbing you through the chest. Such is the joy of heartburn -- or is it acid reflux?

Heartburn

Heartburn is experienced as a painful burning sensation in the chest. This animation shows what happens to the digestive tract when digestive acids reach the esophagus from the stomach.

Stomach Ulcers

A stomach ulcer is caused by an imbalance between acid and pepsin secretion. This animation illustrates how they appear in the stomach.

Ulcers

Ulcers are caused when an imbalance occurs between the digestive juices and the protective lining in the stomach. This medical animation illustrates how it works.