Surgeries
Gallbladder stone disease
What is gallstone disease? Gallstones occur as a result of the imbalance of components in bile fluid. Bile is produced by the liver and helps digest fats. The main components of bile are cholesterol, bilirubin and bile salts. Gallstones usually occur due to excessive accumulation of cholesterol in bile or increased bilirubin levels. Small particles are formed as a result of the crystallization of cholesterol or other components, and these particles combine and grow over time to form gallstones. Factors that increase the risk of gallstone formation include age, gender, obesity, rapid weight loss, some chronic diseases and family history. When is gallbladder surgery necessary? Gallstone surgery is generally recommended if the stones cause symptoms or complications. If the stones do not cause any symptoms, only routine follow-up may be sufficient and surgery is not required. The patient's general health status and the risks that the stones may pose are taken into consideration in the decision to undergo surgery. However, in people with diabetes or a weak immune system, it may be recommended to remove gallstones that do not show symptoms in order to prevent them from creating a risk in the future. Surgery should be considered when symptoms such as pain related to meals in the upper right or upper middle of the abdomen, nausea, vomiting and unexplained upper digestive system problems occur. Surgical intervention is necessary especially after serious complications such as blockage of the bile duct due to stones, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), pancreatitis or jaundice develop. How is gallbladder surgery performed? Gallbladder surgery is the surgical removal of the gallbladder and is usually performed with the laparoscopic cholecystectomy method. In this method, small incisions are made in the abdominal area and a thin and long camera (laparoscope) and surgical instruments are used. The laparoscope allows the doctor to see the surgical area, while the gallbladder is removed with the help of small instruments. Thanks to the laparoscopic method, the recovery process is faster and painless; the patient can usually return to daily activities within a few days. In some cases, the traditional method called open cholecystectomy, which requires a larger incision, is preferred. This method is usually used in complicated gallstone diseases or for structural reasons. What is a bile duct stone? A bile duct stone is formed when stones that fall from the gallbladder into the bile duct block the flow of bile. In this case, the treatment varies depending on the location of the stone and the patient's symptoms. The first preferred method is usually the endoscopic procedure called ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography). In this method, a thin endoscope is inserted through the mouth to reach the bile ducts, the stones are removed with special tools or a small incision is made to ensure that they fall out. If ERCP is not successful or the stones are large, laparoscopic or open surgical intervention may be required. If bile duct stones are not treated, they can cause serious complications such as jaundice, pancreatitis or bile duct infections. Sometimes, millimetric stones found in the gallbladder during gallbladder surgery can spill into the bile duct and cause bile duct obstruction. In this case, a procedure called ERCP may be required for bile duct stones detected after surgery.
Abdominal Wall Hernias
What are abdominal wall hernias? Abdominal wall hernias are the condition in which organs or tissues in the abdominal region protrude through weak points in the abdominal wall. Organs or fatty tissues protruding from these weaknesses between or around the abdominal muscles are called hernias. Abdominal wall hernias can develop for various reasons and are especially seen around the belly button, groin and surgical areas. The most common types of abdominal wall hernias are as follows: 1. **Inguinal (groin) hernia**: This is the most common type of hernia and occurs in the groin area. It is more common in men. 2. **Umbilical (belly) hernia**: It occurs in the navel area, can be seen from birth and is common in children. 3. **Incisional (developing from a surgical incision) hernia**: It develops in previously operated areas and occurs as a result of weakening of the sutures in the abdominal wall. Hernias usually manifest themselves with symptoms such as pain, swelling and discomfort. Pain may increase, especially with heavy lifting, coughing, or movements that increase intra-abdominal pressure. The treatment plan is determined according to the type and size of the hernia. Closed and open methods are preferred depending on the disease and recurrence. With surgery, the weak area is repaired and strengthened to prevent the hernia from recurring.
Colon Rectum diseases
What is colon and rectum cancer? Colon and rectum cancer are types of cancer that develop in the large intestine (colon) or its last section, the rectum. They are often referred to together as "colorectal cancer". Colon and rectum cancer occur when small clusters of cells called polyps that start on the inner surface of the large intestine turn into cancer over time. Some of these polyps are harmless, but some carry the risk of turning into cancer. Early detection and removal of polyps can greatly reduce the risk of cancer. Although the exact cause of colon and rectum cancer is unknown, factors such as age, genetic factors, family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, dietary habits and lifestyle increase the risk. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are also factors that increase the risk. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation), abdominal pain, blood in the stool, anemia, weight loss, fatigue and rectal bleeding. These symptoms may become more pronounced in the advanced stages of the disease. Colonoscopy, biopsy, blood tests and imaging methods are used to diagnose colorectal cancer. Treatment is determined by the stage and location of the cancer and the patient's general health. There are options such as surgical intervention, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted treatments. When diagnosed early, colorectal cancer can be treated and the patient's life expectancy can be extended. Therefore, regular screening tests are important to catch the disease at an early stage, especially in individuals at risk. What is colon diverticular disease? Colon diverticular disease is the formation of small, pocketed bubbles or sacs (diverticula) in the wall of the large intestine (colon). This disease usually develops in areas of the intestine that weaken with age and is quite common in older ages in Western countries. However, due to increased dietary habits, especially the consumption of low-fiber foods, its frequency increases in the 40s. The presence of diverticula is called "diverticulosis" and usually does not cause symptoms. However, when these pockets become inflamed or infected, a condition called "diverticulitis" occurs and more serious symptoms occur. The exact cause of diverticular disease is not known, but factors such as a low-fiber diet and constipation are thought to contribute to the formation of these pockets by increasing the pressure inside the intestines. Aging, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are also risk factors. Symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain (usually in the lower left side), fever, nausea, bloating, changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea) and sometimes blood in the stool. When diverticulitis progresses, it can lead to complications such as intestinal obstruction, abscesses or perforation (a hole in the bowel), which require immediate medical attention. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, antibiotic treatment and a high-fiber diet may be recommended. In severe or recurring cases, surgery may be required. A high-fiber diet and regular exercise are important in preventing diverticular disease.
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Anorectal region diseases
Hemoroidal hastalık(basur) nedir? Hemoroidal hastalık, anüs ve rektum bölgesindeki damarların genişlemesi veya şişmesi sonucu oluşan bir durumdur. Bu genişleyen damarlar, "hemoroid" olarak adlandırılır. Hemoroidal hastalık, genellikle anüs çevresinde ve rektumda ağrı, kaşıntı, kanama ve rahatsızlık hissine yol açar. Hemoroidler iç hemoroidler (rektum içinde) veya dış hemoroidler (anüs çevresinde) olarak iki türde olabilir. İç hemoroidler, genellikle ağrıya neden olmaz, ancak dışkılama sırasında kanama görülebilir. Dış hemoroidler ise ağrılı olabilir ve bazen anüs çevresinde şişlik, kanama ve kaşıntıya yol açabilir. Dış hemoroidler, bazen pıhtılaşma sonucu şiddetli ağrıya neden olan "tromboze hemoroid" halini alabilir. Hemoroidal hastalığın en yaygın nedenleri arasında aşırı zorlanma, kabızlık, uzun süre oturma, hareketsiz yaşam tarzı, aşırı alkol tüketimi, düşük lifli diyet, obezite ve gebelik yer alır. Ayrıca, genetik faktörler de bu hastalığa yatkınlık yaratabilir. **Belirtiler** arasında, dışkılama sırasında kanama, anüs çevresinde şişlik, ağrı, kaşıntı, sümüksü akıntı ve tıkanıklık hissi yer alır. Tedavi, hemoroidlerin türüne ve şiddetine bağlıdır. Hafif vakalarda, diyet değişiklikleri (lif alımının artırılması) ve topikal kremlerle tedavi sağlanabilir. Daha ileri vakalarda, cerrahi müdahale, lazer tedavisi veya bağlama gibi prosedürler uygulanabilir. Hemoroidal hastalık, genellikle yaşam tarzı değişiklikleri ve düzenli egzersiz ile önlenebilir. Anal fissür(makat çatlağı) nedir? Anal fissür, anüsün iç kısmındaki deri veya mukozada meydana gelen küçük yırtılmalar veya çatlaklardır. Bu durum genellikle dışkılama sırasında ağrıya neden olur ve bazen kanama görülebilir. Anal fissür, genellikle anüs çevresindeki hassas deri bölgesinin aşırı gerilmesi sonucu oluşur. En yaygın nedeni, büyük veya sert dışkılar nedeniyle zorlanarak dışkılama yapmak, ancak ishal, gebelik, doğum, inflamatuar bağırsak hastalıkları gibi durumlar da anal fissür oluşumunu tetikleyebilir. Belirtiler arasında dışkılama sırasında şiddetli ağrı, kanama (dışkı üzerinde taze kan), anüs çevresinde kaşıntı ve rahatsızlık hissi yer alır. Bu ağrı, özellikle dışkılama sonrasında birkaç dakika ila birkaç saat sürebilir. Anal fissür, akut veya kronik olabilir. Akut fissürler genellikle birkaç hafta içinde iyileşirken, kronik fissürler daha uzun süre devam eder ve iyileşme süreci daha zor olabilir. Tedavi, fissürün türüne ve şiddetine bağlıdır. Akut anal fissürlerde, yüksek lifli gıdalarla beslenmek, bol su içmek, dışkıyı yumuşatmak için ilaçlar kullanmak ve dışkılama sırasında ıkınmaktan kaçınmak gibi yaşam tarzı değişiklikleri önerilir. Ayrıca, bölgesel krem veya merhemler de ağrıyı hafifletebilir ve iyileşmeyi hızlandırabilir. Kronik fissürlerde, doktorlar daha güçlü tedavi yöntemlerine veya cerrahi müdahaleye (fissürün cerrahi olarak kesilmesi veya anüs kaslarını gevşetici tedaviler gibi) başvurabilir. Anal fistül nedir? Anal fistül, anüs çevresinde veya rektumda bulunan iki farklı bölge arasında anormal bir kanal oluşumudur. Bu kanal, genellikle anüs içindeki iltihaplı bir absesin (enfeksiyon) patlaması sonucu oluşur. Fistül, enfekte olmuş dokudan anüs çevresine veya başka bir bölgeye doğru bir geçiş yolu açar ve bu kanal genellikle sürekli olarak iltihap, irin ve bazen kan sızdırabilir. Bu enfeksiyonlar, anal bezlerin tıkanması ve bakterilerin burada birikmesi sonucu meydana gelir. Zamanla, bu enfeksiyon iltihaplı bir apsenin oluşmasına yol açar ve apsenin boşalmasıyla fistül kanalının oluşması gerçekleşir. Belirtiler arasında, anüs çevresinde ağrı, kaşıntı, irin veya kanama, kötü koku, şişlik ve sürekli veya zaman zaman sızan iltihaplı akıntı yer alır. Bazen fistül, idrar veya dışkı kaçırmaya da neden olabilir, ancak bu durum daha nadir görülür. Tedavi, fistülün boyutuna ve yerleşimine bağlı olarak değişir. Küçük ve basit fistüller bazı durumlarda ilaç tedavisi ve hijyen önlemleriyle iyileşebilir. Ancak çoğu durumda cerrahi müdahale gerekir. Cerrahi tedavi, fistül kanalının temizlenmesi veya iyileşmesine yardımcı olacak bir işlem yapılmasını içerir. Fistül tedavisinde başarı oranı yüksektir, ancak tedavi edilmezse komplikasyonlar, tekrarlama ve yaşam kalitesinin düşmesi gibi sorunlar meydana gelebilir. Anal abse nedir? Anal abse, anüs çevresindeki bölgedeki bezlerde oluşan enfeksiyon sonucu meydana gelen, içinde irin biriken bir kesedir. Bu enfeksiyon, genellikle anüs çevresindeki küçük bezlerin tıkanması ve burada bakteri birikmesi sonucu gelişir. Bakteriler, enfeksiyona yol açarak abseyi oluşturur. Anal abse, şiddetli ağrı, şişlik, kızarıklık ve bazen ateş gibi belirtilerle kendini gösterir. Anal abse, genellikle anal kanalın iç kısmındaki bezlerden birinde başlar, ancak çevresindeki dokularda da yayılabilir. Enfeksiyon ilerledikçe, abse büyüyebilir ve şiddetli ağrılar, idrar yapma güçlüğü, dışkı kaçırma gibi sorunlara yol açabilir. Eğer abse boşalırsa, irin akıntısı meydana gelir ve ağrı hafifler, ancak enfeksiyon hâlâ devam edebilir. Anal abse tedavisi, enfeksiyonun ciddiyetine ve absenin büyüklüğüne bağlıdır. Küçük abseler, antibiyotiklerle tedavi edilebilirken, büyük veya ilerlemiş abseler cerrahi müdahale gerektirir. Cerrahi işlem sırasında abse boşaltılır ve enfeksiyon temizlenir. Eğer tedavi edilmezse, abse iltihaplanmaya devam edebilir ve anal fistül adı verilen bir duruma dönüşebilir. Anal abse tedavi edilmezse, ciddi komplikasyonlar ve tekrarlama riski söz konusu olabilir.
Breast Diseases
What is a breast lump? A breast lump is an abnormal swelling or hardness in the breast. This lump can occur due to different reasons and is usually associated with the risk of breast cancer in women, although it can also be a non-cancerous benign condition. Breast lumps are usually noticed when felt by hand, but can sometimes be detected during examinations performed for other reasons. The causes of a breast lump may be: 1. Fibrocystic changes: These are normal changes that occur in the glands and tissues in the breast. Fibrocystic changes can occur due to factors such as hormonal changes, menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause. This can lead to painful or painless lumps in the breast tissue. 2. Breast fibroadenoma: These are benign tumors that are usually seen in young women. They are hard, round and have regular borders. Fibroadenomas are usually painless and may not require surgical intervention, but their growth should be monitored. 3. Mastitis: Infection or inflammation of the breast tissue. It is usually seen in breastfeeding women, but breast infections can also cause the formation of the mass. Mastitis may be accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, pain and redness. 4. Cyst: These are round-shaped and usually painless masses formed by fluid accumulation in the breast. Cysts can usually grow under the influence of hormones and are related to the menstrual cycle. 5. Breast cancer: The most worrisome situation is that a breast mass may be cancerous. A breast cancer mass is usually hard, irregularly shaped, painless and grows over time. In addition, other symptoms such as skin collapse, changes in the nipple or fluid discharge may be seen. Evaluation of a breast mass: - Manual examination: In the first stage, the mass in the breast is felt by hand and its dimensions, shape, hardness and mobility are evaluated. Ultrasound: Ultrasound is used to see the mass in more detail, it is especially useful in young women. Mammography: In older women with denser breast tissue, mammography can be performed to detect and characterize the mass. - Biopsy: If there is a suspicious mass, a biopsy may be performed to assess the risk of cancer. A biopsy is the process of taking a sample of the mass's tissue and examining it. Treatment - Benign masses can usually be monitored and do not require treatment. However, if the mass grows or causes pain, surgery may be required. - If a cancerous mass is detected, treatment can usually include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormone therapy. Finding a breast mass does not always mean cancer, but a health professional should be consulted to make a definitive diagnosis. Early diagnosis is especially important in the treatment of breast cancer.
Thyroid and Parathyroid Gland Diseases
What is a thyroid nodule? Thyroid nodules are abnormal growths in the thyroid gland and are usually seen as small round or oval-shaped masses. The thyroid gland is a gland located in the front of the neck that produces important hormones that regulate metabolic rate. Most thyroid nodules are benign and do not cause any obvious symptoms. Some nodules work more than the other parts of the thyroid gland, which causes hyperthyroidism called toxic goiter. Sometimes nodules can only grow and cause difficulty breathing or swallowing due to pressure. In addition, thyroid nodules can be malignant, although rare. Causes of thyroid nodules include iodine deficiency, genetic factors, inflammation (thyroiditis) and aging. When suspected, nodules are first examined with ultrasound. If an overactive thyroid gland or nodule is suspected, first of all, in order to show this condition, it is necessary to support it with laboratory tests to see the hormone levels and then to show the actual disease in the thyroid gland, scintigraphy should be performed. Although most nodules are benign, if a suspicious condition is detected in the nodule with ultrasound, a biopsy is performed to try to determine the name of the disease. Biopsy is especially used to determine nodules that carry a risk of cancer. Most nodules do not require treatment, but for nodules that affect hormone balance or carry a risk of cancer, surgical intervention or treatment methods such as radioactive iodine therapy can be applied. Thyroid nodules that are monitored under the supervision of a doctor can be monitored without affecting the person's quality of life. Regular check-ups are important to follow the growth tendency of the nodules or possible changes. What is toxic goiter? Toxic goiter, medically known as "toxic goiter" or "hyperthyroidism," is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of hormones. Excessive hormone secretion by the thyroid gland increases the body's metabolic rate and can lead to a number of health problems. Toxic goiter is often associated with an enlarged thyroid gland, which can cause swelling and discomfort in the neck. Common causes of this disease include Graves' disease, toxic adenomas (nodules in the thyroid gland that produce excess hormones), and thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland). Toxic goiter can present with symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, irritability, weight loss, excessive sweating, shaking hands, and fatigue. If left untreated, the disease can lead to serious complications in the heart, bones, and muscles. Treatment options include antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. The treatment method is determined by the patient's age, general health, and the size of the goiter. Controlling toxic goiter is important in relieving symptoms and balancing hormone levels. What is Hashimoto's disease? Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. In Hashimoto's disease, the immune system produces antibodies against the thyroid tissue, which should normally protect the body from infections. This causes the thyroid cells to gradually break down and hormone production to decrease. Over time, this can lead to a thyroid hormone deficiency called hypothyroidism. The exact cause of Hashimoto's disease is not known, but genetic factors, environmental factors, viral infections, and iodine excess are thought to play a role. It is more common in women than in men and usually begins in middle age. Symptoms of the disease develop slowly and include symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, depression, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, and muscle pain. Treatment involves taking daily hormone medication (levothyroxine) to replace the missing thyroid hormone. This treatment improves the patient's quality of life by keeping hormone levels at normal levels. Hashimoto's disease can be kept under control with regular follow-up and medication, but it cannot be completely cured. Thyroid cancer Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the thyroid gland, located in the neck, grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Thyroid cancer is a rare type of cancer, but some thyroid nodules can be cancerous. There are different types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer. Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common and usually the least aggressive type. Anaplastic thyroid cancer is rare but progresses quickly and can be difficult to treat. It is often suspected when nodules are found in the thyroid gland. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include neck swelling, very rarely in advanced stages, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, neck pain, and in some cases, changes in thyroid hormone levels. The exact cause of thyroid cancer is not known, but genetic predisposition, radiation exposure, and some genetic syndromes are considered risk factors. Diagnosis is usually made with methods such as ultrasound, biopsy, and scintigraphy. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer and the patient's general health status, and may include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, hormone therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Early diagnosis has a high chance of cure; therefore, abnormalities in the thyroid should be carefully monitored and a doctor should be consulted if necessary. What are hyperparathyroidism and parathyroid adenoma? Hyperparathyroidism is a health problem caused by the parathyroid glands producing excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH). The parathyroid glands are four small glands located behind the thyroid gland and secrete the PTH hormone, which regulates the levels of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D in the blood. This hormone balances blood calcium levels by increasing the release of calcium from bones, ensuring calcium reabsorption from the kidneys, and increasing calcium absorption from the intestines. However, in hyperparathyroidism, this process is overworked and the calcium level in the blood increases (hypercalcemia). There are two types of hyperparathyroidism: primary hyperparathyroidism and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Primary hyperparathyroidism occurs when there is a tumor or growth in the parathyroid glands (often a parathyroid adenoma). Secondary hyperparathyroidism is caused by conditions such as chronic kidney disease or vitamin D deficiency. Symptoms of hyperparathyroidism can be mild, but as it progresses, it can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, bone pain, kidney stones, nausea, loss of appetite, depression and frequent urination. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the type of disease. In mild cases, regular follow-up and monitoring of calcium levels may be sufficient, while more severe cases may require surgery.
Pilonidal Sinus (ingrown hair) disease
What is pilonidal sinus? Pilonidal sinus is an infection that occurs under the skin of the coccyx and usually occurs as a result of inflammation due to the accumulation of foreign substances such as hair and skin debris. The word "pilonidal" means "hair nest" and the disease occurs when hair follicles accumulate under the skin. Pilonidal sinus is mostly seen in young adults and men, because the amount of hair and skin structure play a role in the formation of the disease. Pilonidal sinus may not show any symptoms at first, but when it becomes inflamed, symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling and discharge occur. The discharge is usually foul-smelling and when the infection becomes severe, general signs of infection such as fever may also be seen. Pilonidal sinus is a recurring disorder and can affect the person's quality of life. Different methods can be applied in the treatment of this condition depending on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, the hair nest can be cleaned and then ablation can be done with phenol or laser. However, surgical intervention is necessary in recurrent or more serious cases. Surgical treatment may require complete removal and reconstruction of the area.
Appendicitis
What is appendicitis? Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped organ located in the lower right abdomen where the small intestine meets the large intestine. Appendicitis is a very common health problem and usually requires emergency surgery. When the appendix becomes blocked or infected, bacteria can accumulate inside the organ, causing inflammation and swelling. If left untreated, the appendix can rupture and spread the infection into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis, a serious and life-threatening condition. The most common symptom of appendicitis is sudden, severe pain in the lower right abdomen. The pain usually begins around the navel and then shifts to the lower right. In addition to the pain, symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, constipation or diarrhea, and the inability to pass gas may also occur. Appendicitis is diagnosed through a clinical examination, blood tests, and imaging methods such as ultrasound or CT scans. Treatment is usually surgical; the inflamed appendix is surgically removed (appendectomy). Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications. In some cases, antibiotic treatment may be required followed by surgical treatment, this is called interval appendectomy.
Stomach Diseases
Gastric reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) is a condition in which stomach contents leak back into the esophagus. This occurs when stomach acid rises up into the esophagus, and is usually caused by a muscle in the lower esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) not working properly. Normally, this muscle controls the passage between the esophagus and stomach and prevents stomach acid from leaking into the esophagus. However, when this muscle relaxes or weakens, stomach acid can leak back into the esophagus. The most common symptoms of gastric reflux are acid reflux (acid-like fluid rising up into the mouth) and chest pain. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, a burning sensation in the throat, an acidic taste in the mouth, coughing, sore throat, nausea, and snoring at night. If left untreated for a long time, reflux disease can lead to inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis), scarring, or more serious complications (such as esophageal cancer). In addition, some people have factors that trigger this condition, such as overeating, excessive consumption of acidic and fatty foods, obesity, alcohol and smoking. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, medication, and in some cases, surgery. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding acidic foods, not lying down immediately after meals, and losing weight are important. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or antacids can be used as medication. In severe cases, surgery may be required. What is a hiatal hernia? A hiatal hernia is a condition in which the stomach part slides through the normal opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm into the esophagus. The diaphragm is a muscular curtain that separates the chest and abdominal cavities, and the esophagus connects to the stomach through this opening. In the case of a hiatal hernia, a part of the stomach slides upward through this opening and passes into the chest cavity. Hiatal hernia usually occurs in 2 types: 1. Sliding Hiatal Hernia: The junction of the stomach and esophagus slides through the opening of the diaphragm, and the upper part of the esophagus and part of the stomach protrude into the chest cavity. This is the most common type of hiatal hernia. 2. Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia: The stomach does not slide upward through the opening of the diaphragm, but the stomach slides to the side of the esophagus. This type of hernia is rarer and can usually lead to more serious complications. 3. Both hiatal hernia. Hiatal hernia usually does not cause symptoms, but sometimes it can cause complaints such as acid reflux, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, heartburn (reflux), nausea or difficulty breathing. If stomach contents leak back into the esophagus, acidic reflux can occur, increasing the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Treatment for hiatal hernia depends on the patient's complaints and the type of hernia. Mild cases can be treated with lifestyle changes, dietary changes, antacids, and medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). In more severe cases, surgery may be required. What is a stomach ulcer? A stomach ulcer is an open sore on the stomach lining (mucosa). The acidic fluids in the stomach content overcome the protective layer of the stomach and irritate the tissues in the inner surface of the stomach, which leads to the formation of an ulcer. Stomach ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including imbalance of stomach acid, bacterial infections, and certain medications. The main causes of stomach ulcers are: 1. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria: This bacteria can cause inflammation and ulcer formation in the stomach lining. H. pylori infections are one of the most common causes of stomach ulcers. 2. Strong anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Painkillers such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin can weaken the stomach lining, causing ulcers to form. 3. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can irritate the stomach lining and cause ulcers. 4. Stress and poor eating habits can also increase the risk of stomach ulcers, but they are not considered a direct cause. Symptoms of stomach ulcers include abdominal pain (especially after meals or at night), heartburn, nausea, digested bloody stools (black), loss of appetite, bloating, and weight loss. If the ulcer is not treated, serious complications such as bleeding or perforation in the stomach wall can develop. Treatment varies depending on the cause of the ulcer. If H. pylori bacteria is detected, antibiotic treatment is necessary. In addition, medications that reduce stomach acid (proton pump inhibitors or H2 receptor antagonists) can be used to help the stomach heal. If you are using NSAIDs, these medications may need to be stopped or changed. In addition, lifestyle changes, stress management, and a healthy diet are recommended to relax the stomach. What is stomach cancer? Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the inner surface of the stomach grow uncontrollably. It usually starts in the mucosal layer of the inner wall of the stomach and can spread to deeper layers over time. Stomach cancer usually progresses slowly and may not show symptoms in the early stages, making early diagnosis difficult. However, as the disease progresses, stomach cancer may show distinct symptoms. Risk factors for stomach cancer include: - Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: This bacterium, which irritates the stomach lining and can cause ulcers, can play an important role in the development of stomach cancer. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: These habits increase the risk of stomach cancer. High-salt and processed foods: Excessively salty foods can increase the risk of stomach cancer. Genetic factors: A family history of stomach cancer can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Chronic stomach diseases: Conditions such as stomach ulcers or stomach polyps also increase the risk of stomach cancer. Symptoms of stomach cancer include: - Abdominal pain or discomfort - Nausea and vomiting - Loss of appetite and sudden weight loss - Difficulty swallowing - Heartburn and indigestion - Bleeding (such as black stools or blood in vomit) - Bloating and gas Stomach cancer is usually diagnosed with endoscopy, biopsy, ultrasound, CT scans, or blood tests. Treatment options include surgery (removal of the cancerous area), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Treatment depends on the stage and spread of the cancer. Early detection plays an important role in treating stomach cancer, so it is recommended that people at high risk have regular screening tests.
Obesity
What is obesity? Obesity is a health condition that occurs as a result of excessive fat accumulation in the body. Obesity can be diagnosed using the body mass index (BMI). BMI is a value that measures the ratio of a person's height and weight. Individuals with a BMI value of 30 or higher are considered obese. Obesity is not only an aesthetic problem, but also a serious condition that can lead to many health problems. Excessive weight creates an additional burden on the body and can increase the risk of various diseases. Obesity can develop under the influence of a number of factors such as genetic factors, environmental effects, eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, psychological conditions and some diseases. The main causes of obesity can be: - High-calorie and unhealthy diet: Fast food, processed foods, excessive sugar and fat consumption. Physical inactivity: Not exercising regularly, sitting for long periods of time. Genetic factors: Having a family history of obesity can affect metabolic rate. Psychological factors: Conditions such as stress, depression and anxiety can lead to overeating behavior. - Hormonal disorders: Hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism can trigger weight gain. Medications: Some medications can cause weight gain. Health effects of obesity: Obesity can lead to many serious health problems. These include: - Heart disease: High blood pressure, heart attack and stroke risk increases. Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes in particular is closely associated with obesity. Musculoskeletal problems: Obesity can put extra stress on the joints, leading to problems such as arthritis. Sleep apnea: Obesity can cause breathing to stop during sleep. Cancer: Obesity increases the risk of certain types of cancer (such as breast, colon and uterine cancer). Liver disease: The risk of fatty liver disease and cirrhosis increases. Treatment and prevention: Treatment of obesity requires a personalized approach. Dietary changes, increased physical activity and behavioral changes are the basic treatment methods. In some cases, drug therapy, MDE balloon application or surgical intervention (such as sleeve gastrectomy gastric bypass) may be required. Obesity treatment aims to provide lifelong sustainable healthy habits by targeting healthy weight loss.
