BILIOUS DIARRHEA Meaning and
Definition
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Bilious diarrhea is a medical term used to describe a type of diarrhea that is characterized by the presence of bile in the stool. Bile is a substance that is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, and it plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
When one experiences bilious diarrhea, it means that bile is not being properly absorbed in the small intestine and is instead being excreted along with the feces. This results in stools that are yellow or greenish in color and have a foul odor. Additionally, bilious diarrhea is often associated with abdominal pain and discomfort.
There can be several underlying causes of bilious diarrhea. They include infections such as viral gastroenteritis or bacterial food poisoning, certain medications especially those that affect the liver or gallbladder, gallbladder disease, liver disorders, and malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease or pancreatitis. In some cases, it can also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as Crohn's disease or colon cancer.
Treatment for bilious diarrhea depends on the underlying cause. It may involve addressing the infection, adjusting medication regimens, dietary changes, or surgical interventions in more severe cases. It is important to seek medical attention if bilious diarrhea persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, as it may indicate an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
Etymology of BILIOUS DIARRHEA
The word "bilious" has its origins in Latin. The Latin word "bilis" means "bile" or "gall". Bile is a yellowish-green fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, which aids in the digestion of fats. The term "bilious" is associated with an excess or disorder of bile in the body.
The word "diarrhea" also has its roots in Greek and Latin. The Greek word "diarrhoia" combines "dia" meaning "through" and "rhein" meaning "to flow". It refers to an abnormally frequent and loose or watery bowel movement.
Therefore, when combined, "bilious diarrhea" directly implies the presence of bile in the stool and refers to a condition characterized by frequent loose or watery bowel movements that contain an excessive amount of bile.
