Short bowel syndrome


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Short bowel syndrome


Short bowel syndrome is a condition that prevents a person from digesting food and absorbing nutrients properly. It occurs when a large amount of the small intestine has been surgically removed or is affected by disease (such as Crohn's disease).

The main symptom of short bowel syndrome is watery diarrhea.

A person with short bowel syndrome usually needs a special diet along with vitamin and mineral supplements. Complications may include kidney stones, gallstones, and significant weight loss.

Credits


Author Monica Rhodes
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Last Updated October 9, 2008

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Last updated: October 09, 2008
Author: Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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