Diarrhea: a condition in which the sufferer has frequent and watery, or loose bowel movements. A vengeful Mexican monarch (Montezuma) is often blamed for it's misery.

Diverticular Disease/Diverticulosis: the condition of having diverticula in the colon which are outpocketings of the colonic mucosa and submucosa through weaknesses of muscle layers in the colon wall. These are more common in the sigmoid colon, which is a common place for increased pressure. This is uncommon before the age of 40 and increases in incidence after that age.

Enema: not a friend (JK). Well actually, the administration of a medicine into the rectum through the anus. Medications can include laxatives, soothing drugs such as cortisone and other anti-inflamatory drugs.

Fissure: a tear in the anus, usually very painful (think passing broken shards of glass). Fortunately, the treatment is very effective and relatively painless.  In selected cases, an injection of Botox will result in a cure.

Fistula: a channel/tube connecting the rectum to the skin around the anus resulting in abnormal discharge of feces through the opening by the anus. This usually follows a perianal abscess.

Hemorrhoids: Livid and painful swellings formed by the dilation of the blood vessels around the margin of, or within, the anus, from which blood or mucus is occasionally discharged. Also called Piles.

Can be a Biblical punishment for serious transgressions-aka sins. (Deuteronomy 28:27; 1 Samuel 5:6-7; 1 Samuel 5:12; 1 Samuel 6:4-5).  My patients are generally non-sinners.

"When the urge to purge makes you swell and bleed,

To Dr. Aquino's office should you proceed."

Hernia: A hernia occurs when the contents of a body cavity bulge out of the area where they are normally contained. Usually seen in the groin and umbilicus, but can often follow a weak incision. Repair usually involves use of a synthetic or collagen mesh.

Herpes: Caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is manifested in the anal area as painful, watery blisters/ulcers that may be recurrent. This is a contagious condition, especially during an outbreak. Treatment is with an antiviral drug, strong pain medication and warm (Sitz) baths.