Digestive system

Your digestive system breaks down the foods you eat so they can be absorbed into the body and used for energy and nutrients. Discover how it works.

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Anatomy

The human body has many different systems and organs that all serve different function. Learn more about the brain, heart, digestive system and other parts of the body.

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Upper GI endoscopy and dilatation

An upper GI endoscopy and dilatation is a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with the upper part of your digestive system.

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Upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy

An upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if there is a problem with your digestive system.

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Neuroendocrine cancers

Neuroendocrine cancers are a rare group of cancers that most commonly form in the digestive system and the lungs. Learn more here.

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Upper GI endoscopy (child)

An upper GI endoscopy is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if your child has a problem with the upper part of their digestive system.

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Endoscopic ultrasound

An endoscopic ultrasound is usually a safe and effective way of finding out more about a problem in the lining of your upper digestive system and in structures beneath the lining.

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Upper GI endoscopy and dilatation (child)

An upper GI endoscopy and dilatation is usually a safe and effective way of finding out if your child has a problem with the upper part of their digestive system and treating their symptoms.

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Cystic fibrosis (CF)

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that affects your lungs and digestive system. Learn more about what causes CF and how it is treated.

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High-fibre foods and diet

High-fibre foods can reduce your risk of disease and keep your digestive system healthy. Find out how much fibre you need, and how to get it.

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Pancreatic diseases

Links to articles about pancreatic diseases.

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Rectal diseases

Rectal problems include haemorrhoids, fissures, abscesses and incontinence.

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Bloating

Bloating is when your tummy feels swollen. It‘s common, but if you feel bloated regularly, you should see your doctor. Learn more about bloating here.

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Surgery for anal fistula

An anal fistula can cause continued infection and pain. Symptoms usually get worse without surgery.

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What your poo (stool) says about your health

Your poo can give clues about your diet, fluid intake, medication use and lifestyle. Shape, colour and texture all counts. Learn more.

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Gastrointestinal illnesses

Gastrointestinal illnesses are very common. Some may last for only a day or two; others are long term. Learn here about their causes, symptoms and treatments.

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Mouth diseases and conditions

Having a healthy mouth is important for your overall health. Learn how to keep your mouth healthy and when you should see a doctor.

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Malabsorption syndromes

Malabsorption syndrome refers to several disorders that affect someone’s ability to absorb nutrients from their food.

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Liver biopsy

A liver biopsy removes small pieces of tissue from your liver using a needle. The procedure is performed by a radiologist (doctor who specialises in x-rays and scans).

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Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis is a condition in which the muscles around your stomach don't work properly. Although gastroparesis cannot be cured, the symptoms can be relieved.

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Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)

Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones. It can be very painful and usually needs prompt treatment.

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Laparotomy

A laparotomy is an operation that allows surgeons to examine the inside of your abdomen and the internal organs. Find out why it might be needed.

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Appendicectomy

Appendectomy is an operation to remove an infected or inflamed appendix. Learn how to prepare for the procedure and what to expect.

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Pancreas

The pancreas is a vital organ that helps the body to digest food and control blood sugar levels. Read about the role of the pancreas and how to keep it healthy.

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Irritable bowel syndrome infographic

Explore this infographic to learn about how to deal with the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and how you can prevent an attack of IBS.

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Needlestick injuries

If skin is punctured by a sharp medical tool like a scalpel or needle on a syringe, it is called a ‘needlestick injury’. Here's information about needlestick injuries from healthdirect and their partners.

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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes 2 main conditions, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which both cause inflammation in the bowel.

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Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)

A cholecystectomy is surgery to remove your gallbladder, which is usually done using keyhole surgery. Find out how and why this operation is done.

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Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication

Acid reflux can cause heartburn or acid in your mouth. The acid can cause the lining of your oesophagus to become inflamed or scarred. Surgery may be recommended if your symptoms continue while you are taking medication.

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Cholecystectomy and exploration of the bile duct

Gallstones can move into your common bile duct. An operation to remove your gallbladder and any stones in your common bile duct should result in you being free of pain and able to eat a normal diet.

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