Conditions

What are haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids occur when the lower part of the anal lining expands. The lining at the anal canal has natural cushions and so

What is endometriosis? Endometriosis is when the lining of the uterus implants in other parts of the abdomen and especially in the pelvis. It occurs

What is an incisional hernia? This is a hernia through a previous operation site. It can occur after any abdominal operation. It presents as a

What is an umbilical hernia? This is a hernia through or near the umbilicus. It presents as a lump on the abdomen. This can be

What is a femoral hernia? A femoral hernia is similar to an inguinal hernia but the hernia defect is lower down in the groin. There

What is an inguinal hernia? A hernia a weakness in the abdominal muscle at the groin. A hernia causes a lump in the groin that

What is appendicitis? Appendicitis is inflammation and infection of the appendix. What is the appendix? The appendix is an outgrowth from the large bowel near

What are gallstones? Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder. They are made up of bile salts and cholesterol. They a caused by the gallbladder concentrating

What is an anal fistula? An anal fistula is a communication between the skin around the anus and the anal canal.  This communication crosses the

What is an anal fissure? A fissure is a small tear at the anal canal. It is a very common cause of anal pain during

Rectal bleeding is always serious and always requires investigation. What are the common causes of rectal bleeding? The commonest causes of rectal bleeding are problems

What is constipation? Constipation occurs when patients have difficulty emptying the bowels. Often the stool is hard and straining is required. There is a sensation

What is faecal incontinence? Leakage of bowel contents through the anal canal. Is it common? It is very common problem and patients often are too

What is a rectal prolapse? This is a condition where the rectum comes out of the anal canal. There are varying amounts that can come

What is ulcerative colitis? This is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large bowel only. The small bowel is never affected. What causes ulcerative

What is Crohn’s disease? Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel condition. There is inflammation of the lining of the bowel. It can affect any part

What is diverticular disease? Diverticula are pockets in the large bowel. They can occur anywhere in the colon, but are most common in the sigmoid

Colonic Polyps What is a polyp? A polyp is growth from the lining of the lining of the bowel. There are different types of polyp.

Colorectal Cancer What is colorectal cancer? Colorectal cancer is a cancer of the colon or rectum. It is also known as bowel cancer. It is