Latest Articles by Gastroenterology Associates

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic gastrointestinal condition that affects the large intestine. An estimated approximately 10 to 15 percent of the world’s population is affected by this disorder, which is also believed to impact between 25 and 45 million people in the United States. 

Approximately 3 million Americans have some form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—an illness defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as “a term for two conditions (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) that are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.” If left untreated, prolonged inflammation can result in major damage to the GI tract. 

A colonoscopy and upper endoscopy are two procedures performed frequently by gastroenterologists to view and examine various portions of your digestive tract. Colonoscopies inspect the large intestine (colon and rectum) while upper endoscopies observe the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine.

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.   

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. 

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.