We diagnose and treat a number of gastrointestinal disorders that generally stem from diet, environment and/or heredity. Our staff members carefully assess each patient's symptoms and condition, and assist the physician in pinpointing and treating the problem.
In cases where a diagnostic procedure clearly detects a polyp, tumor or gallstone, we can remove or biopsy it. If a blockage is detected, such as food stuck in your esophagus, we can remove it. The most common conditions we treat are abnormalities of the colon.
Other conditions we treat include:
Chronic Liver Disorder
Usually, liver function tests (LFT) are first done to determine the general health of the liver. If those results are persistently abnormal, a biopsy may be ordered.
Colon Cancer
Almost always starts with a polyp, a small growth on the lining of the colon or rectum (parts of the digestive tract).
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's and a related disease (ulcerative colitis) are the main divisions of the group of illnesses called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Their symptoms are very similar, and both involve an abnormal immune response. Crohn's is a chronic disease that usually affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine, but it can also involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include loose bowel movements or abdominal pain, bleeding or fever.
Gallstones
Gallstones can form and become trapped in the main bile duct.
Gastritis
Inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
GERD
Frequent or chronic heartburn (more than twice a week) may be part of a more serious condition known as gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD can lead to more serious medical problems such as difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), narrowing of the esophagus (strictures), or Barrett's Esophagus.
Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas.
Ulcers
Ulcers can develop in the esophagus, stomach or duodenum. Occasionally ulcers can be malignant.
Ulcerative Colitis
Similar to Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, it only affects the colon, characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colon's innermost lining. Symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal pain.
