With the recent release of a colonoscopy study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, news spread quickly through large media outlets suggesting colonoscopies may not be as effective at reducing cancer deaths as previously thought. Regardless of these news stories, this one study's findings shouldn't deter anyone from getting checked for colorectal cancer. Numerous studies have been done to show colonoscopy effectiveness in early cancer detection and prevention. Colonoscopies remain ... [Read More]
gastroenterologist
How to Choose a Gastroenterologist?
If you have recurrent or ongoing severe digestive system symptoms, your primary care doctor may recommend seeing a gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist is a doctor who practices gastroenterology and receives training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the esophagus, stomach, bile duct, gallbladder, pancreas, small intestine, and large intestine. If you haven’t been to a gastroenterologist before, deciding how to choose one can be confusing and challenging. Let’s talk about some ... [Read More]
Things you need to know before visiting a gastroenterologist
Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the digestive system. The digestive system includes the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) and includes body parts and organs such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, rectum, and anus. Gastrointestinal health is important because the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste from the ... [Read More]
Colorectal Cancer Screening Age Drops from 50 to 45
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Recent studies show a rise in colorectal cancer rates among individuals younger than 50 years of age, prompting ACS and USPSTF (U.S. Preventative Services Task Force) to lower the recommended screening age to 45 for those at average risk of developing colorectal cancer. Getting screened even younger and more often may be recommended for those at higher ... [Read More]
How Gastroenterologists Treat Bloating
If you are bloated, it means you are feeling a sensation of fullness or tightness in the abdomen. This may be accompanied by pain, gas, and belching. If you try to palpate your stomach, it may feel hard. In some cases, bloating can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and trouble swallowing, which indicates a gastrointestinal disorder, and is likely not just a one-off incident. To receive specialized care, especially if you are frequently bloated, make an appointment with a ... [Read More]