Your gallbladder is part of your digestive system, storing bile that was formed by your liver and then releasing the bile into the small intestine to aid in digestion. If the bile becomes too concentrated, contains too much cholesterol, or contains too much bilirubin (a residual from red blood cells), then gallstones can form in your gallbladder. These stones can cause abdominal pain, back pain, or even shoulder pain. Let’s talk about the types of gallstones, how they form from bile, and ... [Read More]
Gastroenterology
Texas SUPER DOCTORS® 2020 Includes Our Physicians!
Austin Gastroenterology’s physicians have once again been recognized for exceptional achievement in their field. This time, more than a dozen of our physicians made it to the list of The Texas Monthly list of SUPER DOCTORS. The SUPER DOCTORS selection process is rigorous and asks thousands of medical professionals in Texas to nominate physicians who they believe are so exceptional in their healthcare field that they would trust them with their own medical care needs. Among the thousands of ... [Read More]
Treatments for Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a natural sugar found in dairy products. In order for the intestines and the body to absorb it properly, your small intestine produces lactase – which is an enzyme responsible for breaking down the sugar. If the small intestine is unable to produce lactase, the lactose is left undigested as it transfers to the large intestine. This creates the uncomfortable symptoms associated with lactose intolerance. Fortunately, treatments for lactose intolerance are usually enough to control ... [Read More]
Causes Of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a common condition, affecting approximately 20% of the population on a regular basis. It happens when the acids in your stomach move up into the esophagus, the tube that moves food down from the throat to the stomach. It can cause a number of symptoms in varying degrees of severity. Fortunately, it can often be prevented and treated successfully. Acid Reflux At the bottom of the esophagus, a ring of muscles, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), opens to allow food into ... [Read More]
Common Symptoms of Heartburn
Heartburn is often a symptom of digestive issues, such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux. Aptly named, heartburn feels like something is burning in your chest. It is quite unpleasant and can be confused with other health emergencies, such a heart attack. Defining Heartburn Heartburn is a feeling of discomfort in your chest that may move up to your throat and mouth and most often occurs after eating a meal. A heartburn flareup can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few ... [Read More]