For most of us, home is where the heart is, but for trillions of bacteria and other microbes that live inside you, home is your gut.

Microbes, or micro-organisms, are one-celled organisms like bacteria, fungi, and viruses that may help to either promote your health or harm it. Human beings acquire these microbes at birth during vaginal delivery when exposed to their mother’s bacteria.

Although respiratory symptoms like cough and shortness of breath are the classic symptoms of  COVID-19,  gastrointestinal symptoms can occur as well. A significant number of patients with the disease experience nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, along with pulmonary distress.

Digestive diseases and disorders are very common in the United States today, responsible for over 22 million visits to the doctor's office annually. One reason for this alarming number is that there are so many different conditions that affect the digestive system. Combing through all of these conditions can raise more questions, starting with "What do all of these acronyms stand for?"