Digestive System: Signs and Symptoms

anorexia

loss of apetite that may accompany other conditions; different from anorexia nervosa

aphagia

being unable to swallow or eat

ascites

collection of fluid in the peritoneal cavity

bradypepsia

having a slow digestive system

cachexia

weight loss and generalized wasting that occurs during chronic disease

cholecystalgia

Gallbladder pain

constipation

difficulty or infrequent defecation

Dentalgia

Tooth pain

Diarrhea

passing frequent, watery, or bloody bowel movements

Dysorexia

abnormal apetite; usually a diminished appetite

dyspepsia

indigestion; having an upset stomach

dysphagia

having difficulty swallowing or eating

emesis

vomiting

eructation

burping of gas or stomach acid into the mouth; belching

flatulence

presence of excess gas in the stomach or intestines

gastralgia

stomach pain

hematemesis

vomiting blood

hematochezia

passing bright red blood in the stool

hyperemesis

excessive vomiting

Jaundice

yellow cast to the skin caused by the deposit of bile pigment

Melena

passage of dark tarry stool due to digested blood

nausea

urge to vomit

polyphagia

excessive eating

postprandial

after a meal

pyrosis

pain and burning sensation

• usually caused by stomach acid splashing into the esophagus; heartburn

Regurgitation

Return of fluids and solids from the stomach into the mouth