Latest Articles by Gastroenterology Associates

Seventy-five million endoscopic procedures are performed each year in the United States, of which 51.5 million are gastrointestinal endoscopies. While a colonoscopy may be the most common, with 19 million annually, there are several others, each requiring specialized dietary guidelines before and after the examination.   

The pancreas is a long gland organ that sits behind the stomach in the upper abdomen and releases digestive enzymes and hormones—namely, insulin—into the body. Thus, it plays a critical role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed.

Although many believe heartburn, acid reflux, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are one in the same, they’re actually three distinct conditions. However, they are related, as acid reflux causes both heartburn and GERD, and heartburn is a symptom of both acid reflux and GERD. 

You may be instructed to visit a digestive diseases specialist known as a gastroenterologist if you are experiencing symptoms such as abnormal bowel movements, rectal bleeding, frequent heartburn, abdominal pain, bloating, trouble swallowing, or are of age to begin regular screenings for colorectal cancer.

Colon cancer arises in the colon aka large intestine, the 5- to 6-foot tube connecting the small intestine to the rectum, its final several inches. This digestive organ transports and processes food through several segments—including the cecum, ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid. Abnormal cells can develop in the lining of its wall or rectum. These can multiply uncontrollably and become cancerous, impacting the entire digestive system, and ultimately, causing death. 

Celiac disease is often misunderstood and can go undiagnosed because of its similarity with other disorders. Symptoms can manifest differently for people based on factors such as age and gender, and recognizing them on your own can be difficult.   

Genetics and family history can often play a significant role in a person’s health, and those who have a strong history of certain cancers within their family can benefit from speaking to their doctor and inquiring about Lynch syndrome.

Those with esophageal inflammation experiencing difficulty swallowing or frequently getting food stuck in their esophagus may be diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis. This relatively newly recognized disease can result in damage to the lining of your esophagus, which can worsen over time if untreated.