Fiber Related Diseases & Conditions

You are reading this article to get healthier and help prevent disease. Our doctors have compiled a list of ailments related to Fiber. The conditions and diseases listed below may be helped by the healthy lifestyle interventions outlined in the article.

  • Constipation Constipation is defined medically as fewer than three stools per week and severe constipation as less than one stool per week....learn more »
    In This Article
    Constipation Article
    • Constipation facts
    • What is constipation?
    • What causes constipation?
    • Medications that cause constipation
    • Other causes of constipation
    • How is constipation evaluated (diagnosed)?
    • What treatments are available for constipation?
    • Home remedies and OTC medications to treat constipation
    • Prescription drugs to treat constipation
    • Other treatments for constipation
    • What is the approach to the evaluation and treatment of constipation?
    • When should I seek medical care for chronic constipation?
    • What's new in the treatment of constipation?
  • Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoid is an enlarged vein in the walls of the anus and sometimes around the rectum, usually caused by untreated...learn more »
    In This Article
    Hemorrhoids Article
    • Hemorrhoid facts
    • What are hemorrhoids?
    • What causes hemorrhoids?
    • What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
    • How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
    • What is the treatment for hemorrhoids?
    • Diet
    • Over-the-counter medications for hemorrhoids
    • Nonoperative procedures for internal hemorrhoids
    • Surgery
  • Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis, Diverticular Disease) Diverticulitis is a condition in which diverticuli in the colon rupture. The rupture results in infection in the tissues that...learn more »
    In This Article
    Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis, Diverticular Disease) Article
    • Diverticulosis and diverticulitis facts
    • What is diverticulosis?
    • What is diverticulitis?
    • What are diverticulitis symptoms?
    • What causes diverticula and how do diverticula form?
    • What are the more serious complications of diverticulitis?
    • How are the diagnosis of diverticulitis and diverticulosis made?
    • What is the treatment for diverticulitis and diverticulosis?
    • Medical treatment of diverticulitis and diverticulosis
    • Surgical treatment for diverticulitis
    • What can be done to prevent diverticulitis and diverticulosis?
  • Gallstones Gallstones are stones that form when substances in the bile harden. Gallstones (formed in the gallbladder) can be as small as a...learn more »
    In This Article
    Gallstones Article
    • Gallstones facts
    • What are gallstones?
    • What causes gallstones?
    • Who is at risk for gallstones?
    • What are the symptoms of gallstones?
    • What are the complications of gallstones?
    • What is the relationship of gallbladder sludge to gallstones?
    • How are gallstones diagnosed?
    • What are the potential pitfalls of diagnosing gallstones?
    • How are gallstones treated?
    • Can gallstones be prevented?
    • Can symptoms continue after gallstones are removed?
    • What is new with gallstones?
  • Colon Cancer Colon cancer is a malignancy that arises from the inner lining of the colon. Most, if not all, of these cancers develop from...learn more »
    In This Article
    Colon Cancer Article
    • Colon cancer facts
    • What is cancer?
    • What is cancer of the colon and rectum?
    • What are the causes of colon cancer?
    • What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
    • What tests can be done to detect colon cancer?
    • How can colon cancer be prevented?
    • What are the treatments and survival for colon cancer?
    • What is the follow-up care for colon cancer?
    • What does the future hold for patients with colorectal cancer?
  • Intestinal Gas (Belching, Bloating, Flatulence) Gas or "intestinal gas" means different things to different people. Everyone has gas and eliminates it by belching or farting...learn more »
    In This Article
    Intestinal Gas (Belching, Bloating, Flatulence) Article
    • Intestinal gas facts
    • What causes belching?
    • What causes bloating?
    • What causes flatulence (gas)?
    • What are the causes of intermittent abdominal bloating/distention?
    • How is belching, bloating/distention, and flatulence evaluated?
    • How is excessive intestinal gas treated?
  • Insulin Resistance Insulin resistance is the diminished ability of cells to respond to the action of insulin in transporting glucose (sugar) from...learn more »
    In This Article
    Insulin Resistance Article
    • Insulin resistance facts
    • What is insulin resistance?
    • What causes insulin resistance?
    • What is the relationship between insulin resistance and diabetes?
    • What medical conditions are associated with insulin resistance?
    • Who is at risk for insulin resistance?
    • How is insulin resistance diagnosed?
    • How is insulin resistance managed?
    • Lifestyle changes (diet, weight loss, exercise)
    • Medications
    • What's new in insulin resistance?
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a common gastrointestinal disorder involving abnormal gut contractions (motility) characterized...learn more »
    In This Article
    Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Article
    • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) facts
    • What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
    • What causes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
    • What are symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
    • What are the complications of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
    • How is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diagnosed?
    • How is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) treated?
    • Constipation medications
    • Diarrhea medications
    • Abdominal pain medications
    • Psychotropic drugs
    • Psychological treatments
    • IBS Diet
    • Is there a relationship between IBS and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth?
    • What is a reasonable approach to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
    • What is in the future for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
  • Indigestion (Dyspepsia, Upset Stomach) Dyspepsia (indigestion) is a functional disease in which the gastrointestinal organs, primarily the stomach and first part of the...learn more »
    In This Article
    Indigestion (Dyspepsia, Upset Stomach) Article
    • What is dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • What are the symptoms of dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • What causes dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • What is the course of dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • What are the complications of dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • How is dyspepsia (indigestion) diagnosed?
    • Exclusion of other diseases
    • Specific tests of gastrointestinal function
    • How is dyspepsia (indigestion) treated?
    • What is a reasonable approach to the diagnosis and treatment of dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • What is in the future for dyspepsia (indigestion)?
    • Dyspepsia (Indigestion) At A Glance
  • Overactive Bladder Overactive bladder is a sudden involuntary contraction of the muscle wall of the bladder causing urinary urgency (an immediate...learn more »
    In This Article
    Overactive Bladder Article
    • What is an overactive bladder?
    • What are the causes of overactive bladder?
    • Are there any risk factors for overactive bladder?
    • What are symptoms of an overactive bladder?
    • How is overactive bladder diagnosed?
    • What are treatments for an overactive bladder?
    • What is the role of medications in treating overactive bladder?
    • What are treatments for the chronically incontinent?
    • What measures can be taken at home to prevent overactive bladder symptoms?
    • What are some of the complications of overactive bladder?
    • What is the prognosis for overactive bladder?
    • Overactive Bladder At A Glance
  • Obesity Obesity is the state of being well above one's normal weight. A person has traditionally been considered to be obese if they are...learn more »
    In This Article
    Obesity Article
    • Obesity facts
    • What is obesity?
    • How common is obesity?
    • What are the health risks associated with obesity?
    • What causes obesity?
    • What are other factors associated with obesity?
    • How is body fat measured?
    • What about weight-for-height tables?
    • What is the body mass index (BMI)?
    • Does it matter where body fat is located?
    • What can be done about obesity?
    • What is the role of physical activity and exercise in obesity?
    • What is the role of diet in the treatment of obesity?
    • What is the role of medication in the treatment of obesity?
    • What about herbal fen/phen?
    • What about meal substitutes, artificial sweeteners, and OTC products?
    • What is the role of surgery in the treatment of obesity?
    • How can patients choose a safe and successful weight-loss program?
  • Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) Patients with celiac disease are required to eat a gluten-free diet. Gluten is found in rye, barley, and wheat. Gluten damages...learn more »
    In This Article
    Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) Article
    • How does digestion work?
    • What is celiac disease?
    • What are the symptoms of celiac disease?
    • What are the dietary restrictions for celiac disease?
    • Foods containing gluten
    • Are there any dietary deficiencies associated with celiac disease?
    • What foods are safe to consume with celiac disease?
    • Gluten-free foods
    • What are resources for a gluten-free diet?
  • Diabetes Prevention The risks for developing type 2 diabetes include family history, ethnicity, birth weight, metabolic syndrome, and obesity....learn more »
    In This Article
    Diabetes Prevention Article
    • Type 2 diabetes prevention facts
    • Introduction to diabetes prevention
    • What is type 2 diabetes?
    • What are the risks factors for developing diabetes?
    • What "red flags" or symptoms point to an increased risk for diabetes?
    • Is gestational diabetes a risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life?
    • Diabetes prevention and diet
    • Is there anything that can help to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes?
    • Are there medications that can help to prevent type 2 diabetes?
  • Encopresis Encopresis is a type of elimination disorder in which bowel movements are passed into places other than the toilet. Children with...learn more »
    In This Article
    Encopresis Article
    • What are elimination disorders?
    • What are the symptoms of encopresis?
    • What causes encopresis?
    • How common is encopresis?
    • How is encopresis diagnosed?
    • How is encopresis treated?
    • What other problems are associated with encopresis?
    • What is the outlook for children with encopresis?
    • Can encopresis be prevented?
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Triggers and Prevention Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disease that can affect the quality of those who suffer from this condition....learn more »
    In This Article
    Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Triggers and Prevention Article
    • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) triggers and prevention introduction
    • Diet triggers for IBS constipation
    • Diet triggers for IBS diarrhea
    • Stress and anxiety triggers for IBS
    • Drugs that can trigger IBS
    • Menstrual triggers for IBS
    • Other triggers for IBS
  • Heart Attacks in Women Heart disease, particularly coronary artery disease is the leading cause of heart attacks. Women are more likely to die from a...learn more »
    In This Article
    Heart Attacks in Women Article
    • One woman's heart attack story
    • What is heart disease?
    • Do women need to worry about heart disease?
    • Do women of color need to worry about heart disease?
    • What can I do to prevent heart disease?
    • What does high blood pressure have to do with heart disease?
    • How can I lower my blood pressure?
    • What does high cholesterol have to do with heart disease?
    • What do my cholesterol and triglyceride numbers mean?
    • How can I lower my cholesterol?
    • How do I know if I have heart disease?
    • What are the signs and symptoms of a heart attack?
    • One of my family members had a heart attack. Does that mean I'll have one too?
    • Sometimes my heart beats really fast and other times it feels like my heart skips a beat. Am I having a heart attack?
    • Should I take a daily aspirin to prevent heart attack?
    • Does taking birth control pills increase my risk for heart disease?
    • Does using the birth control patch increase my risk for heart disease?
    • Does menopausal hormone therapy (HT, HRT, ET) increase a woman's risk for heart disease?
    • For more information on heart disease in women
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in children is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating,...learn more »
    In This Article
    Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children Article
    • Irritable bowel syndrome in children facts*
    • What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
    • What is the GI tract?
    • How common is IBS in children?
    • What are the symptoms of IBS in children?
    • What causes IBS in children?
    • How is IBS in children diagnosed?
    • How is IBS in children treated?
    • Eating, diet, and nutrition
    • Medications
    • Probiotics
    • Therapies for mental health problems
  • Breast Cancer and Lymphedema Lymphedema is a common chronic, debilitating condition in which excess fluid called lymph collects in tissues and causes swelling...learn more »
    In This Article
    Breast Cancer and Lymphedema Article
    • What is lymphedema?
    • Who is at risk for developing lymphedema?
    • What happens after my breast cancer surgery?
    • What are lymphedema symptoms and signs?
    • How is lymphedema diagnosed?
    • What is the treatment for lymphedema?
    • How can I help prevent lymphedema?
    • What can I do if I already have lymphedema?
    • What is the prognosis for lymphedema?
  • Colon Cancer Prevention Colo-rectal cancer is both curable and preventable if it is detected early and completely removed before the cancerous cells...learn more »
    In This Article
    Colon Cancer Prevention Article
    • Introduction to colon cancer prevention
    • What measures to prevent colo-rectal cancer have proven effectiveness and long term safety?
    • What measures to prevent colo-rectal cancer probably are effective but may have long term adverse side effects?
    • What measures to prevent colo-rectal cancer probably are effective and safe?
    • What prevention measures have been found to be ineffective?
    • What about genetic testing for colon cancer?
    • Who should consider genetic counseling and testing?
    • Why is genetic counseling and testing important in hereditary colon cancer syndromes?
    • What can be done now to prevent colorectal cancer?
  • Heart Attack Prevention Overview Heart attacks are the major causes of unexpected, sudden death among men and women. A heart attack is also a significant cause of...learn more »
    In This Article
    Heart Attack Prevention Overview Article
    • Introduction
    • What is atherosclerosis?
    • What are coronary heart diseases (CHD)?
    • What is angina pectoris?
    • What is a heart attack?
    • Ventricular fibrillation
    • Heart failure
    • What is cerebral vascular disease?
    • Ischemic stroke
    • Hemorrhagic stroke
    • Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
    • When does the coronary atherosclerosis process begin?
    • Have most people done enough to prevent atherosclerosis and heart attacks?
    • What are the risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis and heart disease?
    • How can coronary atherosclerosis and heart attacks be prevented?
  • Cancer Prevention Certain behavioral, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to cancer. Cancer prevention involves modifying these factors...learn more »
    In This Article
    Cancer Prevention Article
    • What is cancer prevention?
    • Carcinogenesis
    • Cancer Risk factors
    • Factors That are Known to Increase the Risk of Cancer
    • Factors That May Affect the Risk of Cancer
    • Interventions that are known to lower cancer risk
    • Interventions that are not known to lower cancer risk