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Gastrointestinal Conditions We Treat
Personalized care to help you understand and manage conditions affecting your digestive health.
Answers and Support for Your Digestive Concerns
Digestive symptoms can disrupt your daily life and leave you unsure of what to do next. At Advanced Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Centers, our board-certified physicians evaluate gastrointestinal concerns and develop treatment plans tailored to your symptoms, medical history, and individual needs.
Whether you are experiencing ongoing discomfort or managing a diagnosed condition, our team is here to explain your options, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward better digestive health.
Conditions & Symptoms We Treat
Abdominal pain can come from many parts of the digestive system and may feel sharp, dull, cramping, burning, or persistent. Because the causes range from minor digestive problems to conditions that need prompt treatment, ongoing or severe pain should be evaluated.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can come from many parts of the digestive system and may feel sharp, dull, cramping, burning, or persistent. Because the causes range from minor digestive problems to conditions that need prompt treatment, ongoing or severe pain should be evaluated.
Overview
Abdominal pain refers to discomfort anywhere between the chest and pelvis. Digestive causes may include inflammation, infection, constipation, bowel obstruction, ulcers, gallbladder or pancreatic disease, and other gastrointestinal conditions. Pain can also come from urinary, reproductive, vascular, or other non-digestive causes.
Common Symptoms
Abdominal pain may occur alone or alongside:
- Bloating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Changes in bowel habits
The location, timing, severity, and pattern of the pain can provide important clues about its cause.
Evaluation
Evaluation begins with a review of your symptoms, medical history, medications, and a physical examination. Depending on your condition, additional testing may include blood work, stool studies, diagnostic imaging, or endoscopic procedures.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include dietary changes, medications, treatment for infection or inflammation, or a procedure when necessary.
Severe or rapidly worsening pain, significant bleeding, fainting, or persistent vomiting requires urgent medical attention.
Barrett’s esophagus is a change in the lining of the lower esophagus that is associated with long-standing acid reflux. Most people with Barrett’s never develop cancer, but the condition requires appropriate monitoring because it increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus is a change in the lining of the lower esophagus associated with long-standing acid reflux. Most people with Barrett’s never develop cancer, but the condition requires appropriate monitoring because it increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Overview
Repeated exposure to acid reflux can cause the normal lining of the lower esophagus to be replaced by a different type of tissue. Barrett’s esophagus itself usually does not cause symptoms, and patients are commonly evaluated because of chronic GERD.
Common Symptoms
When symptoms are present, they are generally related to acid reflux and may include heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, or difficulty swallowing.
Evaluation
Barrett’s esophagus is diagnosed during an upper endoscopy with biopsies of the esophageal lining. Follow-up recommendations depend on the biopsy results and whether precancerous changes, known as dysplasia, are present.
Treatment
Management usually includes effective acid reflux treatment and endoscopic surveillance. If dysplasia or certain early abnormal changes are found, endoscopic treatments such as ablation or tissue removal may be recommended.
C. diff is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, often during or after antibiotic use. Some cases are mild, while others can become serious and require prompt treatment.
Clostridioides Difficile (C. diff) Infection
C. diff is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, often during or after antibiotic use. Some cases are mild, while others can become serious and require prompt treatment.
Overview
Antibiotics can disrupt the normal bacteria in the colon, allowing C. diff to grow and produce toxins. The risk is also higher after hospitalization or healthcare exposure, among older adults, and in people with certain chronic illnesses.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms include frequent watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping or tenderness, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, and dehydration. Severe disease can cause significant inflammation of the colon and other complications.
Evaluation
Diagnosis is based on compatible symptoms and stool testing. Testing is generally most useful for patients with new, unexplained diarrhea rather than people without symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment usually involves an antibiotic specifically directed at C. diff. Recurrent infections may require additional medication strategies or other therapies, and close follow-up is important.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract. Symptoms may come and go, but ongoing treatment can control inflammation, reduce flares, and lower the risk of complications.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the digestive tract. Symptoms may come and go, but ongoing treatment can control inflammation, reduce flare-ups, and lower the risk of complications.
Overview
Crohn’s disease can involve the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus and may affect deeper layers of the bowel wall. The exact cause is not fully understood and likely involves immune, genetic, and environmental factors.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, fever, rectal bleeding, mouth sores, or reduced appetite. Some patients develop narrowing, fistulas, abscesses, or symptoms outside the intestine.
Evaluation
Diagnosis may involve blood and stool tests, colonoscopy with biopsies, upper endoscopy, and imaging of the small intestine. Testing also helps determine the location and severity of the disease.
Treatment
Treatment is individualized and may include anti-inflammatory medicines, immune-targeted therapies, biologic or small-molecule medications, nutritional support, and surgery when complications cannot be controlled medically.
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing food, liquids, or saliva. Frequent or progressive swallowing problems should be evaluated because they can result from inflammation, narrowing, movement disorders, or other conditions.
Dysphagia
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing food, liquids, or saliva. Frequent or progressive swallowing problems should be evaluated because they can result from inflammation, narrowing, movement disorders, or other conditions.
Overview
Swallowing depends on coordinated muscles and nerves, as well as an open passage through the esophagus. Causes may include reflux-related narrowing, eosinophilic esophagitis, motility disorders, neurological disease, or structural abnormalities.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include food sticking in the throat or chest, coughing or choking while swallowing, painful swallowing, regurgitation, weight loss, or recurrent food impaction.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include upper endoscopy, imaging studies, swallowing tests, or esophageal motility testing, depending on whether the problem appears to originate in the throat or esophagus.
Treatment
Treatment is directed at the cause and may include acid-reducing medication, treatment of inflammation, esophageal dilation, swallowing therapy, or other specialized care.
EPI occurs when the pancreas does not release enough digestive enzymes to properly break down food. Poor digestion can lead to greasy stools, weight loss, vitamin deficiencies, and other nutritional problems.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
EPI occurs when the pancreas does not release enough digestive enzymes to properly break down food. Poor digestion can lead to greasy stools, weight loss, vitamin deficiencies, and other nutritional problems.
Overview
EPI may occur with chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, or other conditions that damage the pancreas or block the flow of digestive enzymes.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, chronic diarrhea, fatty or oily stools, weight loss, and deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include stool testing for pancreatic function, blood tests for nutritional deficiencies, and imaging to look for pancreatic disease when appropriate.
Treatment
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy taken with meals and snacks is the primary treatment. Nutritional counseling, vitamin replacement, and treatment of the underlying pancreatic condition may also be needed.
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. Many cause no symptoms, but stones that block the flow of bile can cause pain, inflammation, jaundice, or pancreatitis.
Gallstones
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. Many cause no symptoms, but stones that block the flow of bile can cause pain, inflammation, jaundice, or pancreatitis.
Overview
Gallstones form when components of bile crystallize inside the gallbladder. They are common and may remain silent for years unless they move into the gallbladder outlet or bile ducts.
Common Symptoms
Typical symptoms include sudden or steady pain in the upper-right or upper-middle abdomen, sometimes after eating, accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Fever or jaundice may indicate a complication that requires prompt evaluation.
Evaluation
Ultrasound is commonly used to identify gallstones. Blood tests and additional imaging or endoscopic evaluation may be needed if a bile duct blockage is suspected.
Treatment
Gallstones that do not cause symptoms often require no treatment. Symptomatic gallbladder stones may require surgical removal of the gallbladder, while bile duct stones can often be treated endoscopically.
GERD occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus and cause troublesome symptoms or complications. Common symptoms include heartburn and regurgitation, but reflux can also cause swallowing problems, cough, or chest discomfort.
GERD, Heartburn and Acid Reflux
GERD occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus and cause troublesome symptoms or complications. Common symptoms include heartburn and regurgitation, but reflux can also cause swallowing problems, coughing, or chest discomfort.
Overview
Acid reflux occurs when the barrier between the stomach and esophagus does not function effectively. Symptoms can be influenced by anatomy, body weight, meals, medications, and other factors.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms include burning behind the breastbone, sour or bitter fluid entering the mouth, belching, chest discomfort, or symptoms that worsen after meals or while lying down. Difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss should be evaluated.
Evaluation
Many patients can be diagnosed based on their symptoms. Upper endoscopy, reflux monitoring, or esophageal motility testing may be used when symptoms are persistent, atypical, or being considered for procedural treatment.
Treatment
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, acid-reducing medications, and endoscopic or surgical anti-reflux procedures for selected patients. Care is tailored to the severity of symptoms and objective findings.
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver and can be caused by viruses, medications, alcohol, autoimmune disease, and other conditions. Some forms are temporary, while others can become chronic and lead to liver scarring.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver and can be caused by viruses, medications, alcohol, autoimmune disease, and other conditions. Some forms are temporary, while others can become chronic and lead to liver scarring.
Overview
Viral hepatitis includes hepatitis A, B, and C, but liver inflammation can also result from immune disorders, toxins, metabolic disease, or other causes. The long-term risks depend on the cause and duration of the inflammation.
Common Symptoms
Many people have few or no symptoms. Possible symptoms include fatigue, nausea, poor appetite, upper-right abdominal discomfort, dark urine, pale stools, itching, or jaundice.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include blood tests for viral hepatitis and liver function, imaging, and fibrosis assessment. Additional testing is directed by the suspected cause.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis. Some viral infections require supportive care, while chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C may be treated with antiviral medication. Autoimmune or medication-related hepatitis requires cause-specific management and monitoring.
Microscopic colitis is inflammation of the colon that typically causes chronic watery diarrhea. The colon may look normal during colonoscopy, so biopsies are needed to make the diagnosis.
Microscopic Colitis
Microscopic colitis is inflammation of the colon that typically causes chronic watery diarrhea. The colon may appear normal during a colonoscopy, so biopsies are needed to make the diagnosis.
Overview
The two primary forms are lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis. The condition is associated with immune factors and may be influenced by certain medications, smoking, and other autoimmune disorders.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptom is persistent, non-bloody watery diarrhea. Patients may also experience urgency, nighttime bowel movements, abdominal pain, fatigue, or weight loss.
Evaluation
Diagnosis requires a colonoscopy with biopsies taken from the colon, even when its lining appears normal. Blood and stool tests may be used to rule out other causes of chronic diarrhea.
Treatment
Treatment may include stopping contributing medications when possible, antidiarrheal therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication such as budesonide when indicated. Many patients respond well to treatment.
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and may occur suddenly or develop over time. Common causes include gallstones, alcohol, certain medications, high triglycerides, and other pancreatic or metabolic conditions.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and may occur suddenly or develop over time. Common causes include gallstones, alcohol, certain medications, high triglycerides, and other pancreatic or metabolic conditions.
Overview
Acute pancreatitis usually begins suddenly and may require hospital treatment. Chronic pancreatitis involves ongoing injury that can lead to scarring, chronic pain, digestive enzyme deficiency, and diabetes.
Common Symptoms
The typical symptom is upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back. Nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal tenderness, weight loss, or greasy stools may also occur depending on the severity and duration.
Evaluation
Diagnosis may involve blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, CT or MRI imaging, and specialized endoscopic imaging when the cause is unclear or complications are suspected.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include fluids, pain management, nutrition, gallstone treatment, alcohol avoidance, triglyceride management, pancreatic enzyme therapy, and endoscopic or surgical treatment of complications.
Short bowel syndrome occurs when there is not enough functioning small intestine to absorb adequate nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes. It most often follows surgical removal of a significant portion of the small intestine.
Short Bowel Syndrome
Short bowel syndrome occurs when there is not enough functioning small intestine to absorb adequate nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes. It most often follows the surgical removal of a significant portion of the small intestine.
Overview
The severity of short bowel syndrome depends on how much intestine remains and which sections are affected. Some patients adapt over time, while others require long-term nutritional or fluid support.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include frequent diarrhea, dehydration, weight loss, weakness, electrolyte abnormalities, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, and difficulty maintaining proper nutrition.
Evaluation
Care involves assessing surgical history, nutritional status, hydration, laboratory values, and the remaining bowel anatomy. Ongoing monitoring is important because nutritional deficiencies can change over time.
Treatment
Treatment may include specialized nutrition, oral or intravenous fluids, vitamin and mineral replacement, medications that slow intestinal transit or improve absorption, and advanced intestinal rehabilitation therapies for selected patients.
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal that commonly causes sharp pain during or after a bowel movement. Most fissures improve with measures that soften stool and reduce strain, while persistent cases may need additional treatment.
Anal Fissures
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal that commonly causes sharp pain during or after a bowel movement. Most fissures improve with measures that soften stool and reduce strain, while persistent cases may need additional treatment.
Overview
Anal fissures often develop after passing a hard or large stool, although chronic diarrhea and other conditions can also contribute. The tear may cause muscle spasms and reduced blood flow, which can slow healing.
Common Symptoms
Typical symptoms include sharp pain during bowel movements, burning or lingering pain afterward, and a small amount of bright red blood on the toilet paper or outside of the stool.
Evaluation
Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and a focused examination. Fissures in an unusual location or those that do not heal may require evaluation for Crohn’s disease or other causes of anal inflammation.
Treatment
Treatment may include increased fiber and fluids, stool-softening therapy, warm sitz baths, and topical medications. Chronic fissures may require prescription treatment or, in selected cases, a minor procedure or surgery.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which gluten triggers damage to the lining of the small intestine. That damage can interfere with nutrient absorption and may cause digestive symptoms, anemia, bone loss, or other problems.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which gluten triggers damage to the lining of the small intestine. This damage can interfere with nutrient absorption and may cause digestive symptoms, anemia, bone loss, or other health problems.
Overview
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with celiac disease, exposure activates an immune response that injures the small intestine. The condition can occur at any age and often runs in families.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary widely and may include diarrhea, constipation, bloating, abdominal discomfort, weight loss, fatigue, iron-deficiency anemia, bone loss, or an itchy skin rash. Some people experience few digestive symptoms.
Evaluation
Diagnosis usually begins with blood tests for celiac-related antibodies while the patient is still eating gluten. If testing suggests celiac disease, an upper endoscopy with small-intestinal biopsies is often used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The primary treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. Nutritional deficiencies should be identified and corrected, and follow-up care may include repeat laboratory testing and dietary guidance.
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as a precancerous polyp. Screening is especially important because polyps can often be found and removed before they become cancerous.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as a precancerous polyp. Screening is especially important because polyps can frequently be found and removed before they become cancerous.
Overview
Most colorectal cancers develop over time from abnormal growths in the lining of the colon or rectum. Risk can be influenced by age, family history, inherited conditions, inflammatory bowel disease, lifestyle factors, and a history of polyps.
Common Symptoms
Early colorectal cancer may cause no symptoms. Possible warning signs include rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, or unintentional weight loss.
Evaluation
A colonoscopy allows direct examination of the colon and the removal or biopsy of abnormal tissue. Additional imaging and laboratory testing may be needed when cancer is diagnosed to determine its extent.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the location and stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of treatments. Care is often coordinated among gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists.
Diarrhea means frequent loose or watery stools and may be short-lived or persistent. When symptoms continue, recur, or are accompanied by bleeding, fever, weight loss, or dehydration, evaluation can help identify the cause.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea refers to frequent loose or watery stools and may be short-lived or persistent. When symptoms continue, recur, or are accompanied by bleeding, fever, weight loss, or dehydration, evaluation can help identify the cause.
Overview
Acute diarrhea is often caused by an infection or medication side effects. Chronic diarrhea may be related to inflammatory bowel disease, microscopic colitis, celiac disease, malabsorption, food intolerances, medications, pancreatic disorders, or other digestive conditions.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include urgency, cramping, bloating, nausea, or difficulty controlling bowel movements. Blood in the stool, fever, dizziness, or significant dehydration may indicate a more serious problem.
Evaluation
Testing is guided by the duration and nature of your symptoms and may include blood tests, stool studies, medication review, colonoscopy, or other studies for malabsorption and intestinal disease.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Hydration is important, and targeted therapy may include dietary changes, medication adjustments, treatment of infection or inflammation, or other condition-specific care.
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the esophagus. It commonly leads to difficulty swallowing and can cause food to become stuck.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune-mediated disease that causes inflammation in the esophagus. It commonly leads to difficulty swallowing and can cause food to become stuck.
Overview
EoE occurs when eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in allergic inflammation, accumulate in the esophageal lining. Many patients also have asthma, eczema, seasonal allergies, or food allergies.
Common Symptoms
Adults commonly experience difficulty swallowing solid food, food impaction, chest discomfort, or symptoms resembling acid reflux. Children may experience feeding difficulties, vomiting, abdominal pain, or poor growth.
Evaluation
Diagnosis requires an upper endoscopy with biopsies from the esophagus. The appearance of the esophagus can provide clues, but biopsy findings are essential for diagnosis and monitoring.
Treatment
Treatment may include proton pump inhibitors, swallowed topical corticosteroids, dietary therapy, biologic treatment for selected patients, and esophageal dilation when significant narrowing is present.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly called NAFLD, occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver in association with metabolic risk factors. It is often silent but can progress to inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and other liver complications.
Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD)
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly called NAFLD, occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver in association with metabolic risk factors. It is often silent but can progress to inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and other complications.
Overview
MASLD is closely associated with excess weight, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. A more inflammatory form is called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, or MASH, which was formerly known as NASH.
Common Symptoms
Most people have no symptoms. Some experience fatigue or discomfort in the upper-right abdomen, and the condition is often discovered through abnormal liver tests or imaging obtained for another reason.
Evaluation
Assessment may include liver blood tests, ultrasound or other imaging, and noninvasive fibrosis testing such as FibroScan or other elastography methods. A liver biopsy is reserved for selected situations.
Treatment
Management focuses on metabolic health, including weight reduction when appropriate, physical activity, diabetes and cholesterol control, and limiting alcohol. Patients with significant fibrosis or other risk factors may need liver-focused medication and closer monitoring.
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining and may develop suddenly or gradually. Causes include H. pylori infection, medications such as NSAIDs, alcohol, autoimmune disease, and other forms of stomach injury.
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining and may develop suddenly or gradually. Causes include H. pylori infection, medications such as NSAIDs, alcohol, autoimmune disease, and other forms of stomach injury.
Overview
The stomach lining normally protects itself from acid and digestive enzymes. When that protective barrier becomes disrupted or inflamed, patients may develop gastritis and, in some cases, erosions or bleeding.
Common Symptoms
Possible symptoms include upper abdominal pain or burning, nausea, vomiting, bloating, early fullness, or loss of appetite. Some patients experience no symptoms.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include testing for H. pylori, blood or stool studies, and upper endoscopy when symptoms are persistent, severe, or associated with warning signs.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and may include acid-reducing medication, eradication therapy for H. pylori, avoiding irritating medications or alcohol, and treating autoimmune or other underlying conditions.
H. pylori is a bacterium that infects the stomach lining and can cause chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers. Treating the infection lowers the risk of recurrent ulcers and other long-term complications.
Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) Infection
H. pylori is a bacterium that infects the stomach lining and can cause chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers. Treating the infection lowers the risk of recurring ulcers and other long-term complications.
Overview
H. pylori can persist in the stomach for years if left untreated. Many infected people have no symptoms, while others develop inflammation, ulcers, or upper abdominal discomfort.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include burning or aching upper abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, frequent belching, reduced appetite, or ulcer-related bleeding. Many patients experience no symptoms.
Evaluation
Testing may include a urea breath test, stool antigen test, or biopsies obtained during an upper endoscopy. Some medications can affect test accuracy, so following preparation instructions is important.
Treatment
H. pylori is treated with a combination of antibiotics and acid-suppressing medication. Follow-up testing is important to confirm that the infection has been eliminated.
Dyspepsia describes recurring pain, burning, fullness, or discomfort in the upper abdomen. When testing does not identify an ulcer or other structural cause, the condition may be called functional dyspepsia.
Indigestion and Functional Dyspepsia
Dyspepsia describes recurring pain, burning, fullness, or discomfort in the upper abdomen. When testing does not identify an ulcer or another structural cause, the condition may be called functional dyspepsia.
Overview
Indigestion can be triggered by meals, acid reflux, gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, H. pylori, medications, or other digestive conditions. Functional dyspepsia is a disorder of gut-brain interaction in which symptoms persist even when routine testing does not show structural disease.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include upper abdominal burning or pain, early fullness, uncomfortable fullness after meals, bloating, belching, or nausea.
Evaluation
Persistent symptoms may be evaluated through a medical history, medication review, H. pylori testing, laboratory studies, and upper endoscopy when appropriate, especially when warning signs are present.
Treatment
Treatment may include meal and lifestyle adjustments, treatment for H. pylori when present, acid-reducing medication, and medications directed at stomach sensitivity or motility. Therapy is individualized according to the pattern of symptoms.
Obesity is a chronic disease associated with increased risk of fatty liver disease, reflux, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems. Gastroenterology practices may help manage weight through medical, nutritional, and selected endoscopic approaches.
Obesity
Obesity is a chronic disease associated with an increased risk of fatty liver disease, acid reflux, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems. Gastroenterology practices may help manage weight through medical, nutritional, and selected endoscopic approaches.
Overview
Weight is influenced by genetics, metabolism, medications, sleep, environment, diet, activity, and other health conditions. Effective treatment generally requires a long-term, individualized strategy rather than a temporary diet.
Common Symptoms
Obesity itself may not cause specific symptoms, but it can contribute to acid reflux, sleep problems, joint pain, metabolic disease, fatty liver disease, and a reduced quality of life.
Evaluation
A weight-management evaluation may include a review of your medical history, medications, metabolic risks, nutrition and activity patterns, and screening for weight-related conditions.
Treatment
Treatment may include nutritional and activity counseling, anti-obesity medications when appropriate, and selected endoscopic or surgical options. The best approach depends on your health risks, goals, previous treatments, and individual preferences.
Peptic ulcers are open sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. The most common causes are H. pylori infection and use of anti-inflammatory medicines such as NSAIDs.
Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcers are open sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. The most common causes are H. pylori infection and the use of anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs.
Overview
The stomach and duodenum are normally protected from acid by a strong lining. When that protection is disrupted, an ulcer can form and may lead to pain, bleeding, perforation, or blockage.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include burning or aching upper abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, early fullness, or loss of appetite. Bleeding may appear as black stools, vomiting blood, dizziness, or anemia.
Evaluation
Upper endoscopy can directly identify and biopsy ulcers. Testing for H. pylori is important, and a medication history can help identify injury caused by NSAIDs.
Treatment
Treatment usually includes acid suppression, H. pylori eradication when present, and avoiding or modifying ulcer-causing medications when possible. Complicated ulcers may require endoscopic, radiologic, or surgical treatment.
Stomach cancer develops from abnormal cells in the stomach, most often from the glandular lining. Early symptoms can be vague, so persistent upper digestive symptoms with warning signs may require endoscopic evaluation.
Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer develops from abnormal cells in the stomach, most often from the glandular lining. Early symptoms can be vague, so persistent upper digestive symptoms accompanied by warning signs may require an endoscopic evaluation.
Overview
The risk of stomach cancer is influenced by factors such as H. pylori infection, certain inherited conditions, chronic stomach inflammation, smoking, and other environmental or dietary factors.
Common Symptoms
Possible symptoms include persistent upper abdominal discomfort, early fullness, reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, anemia, black stools, or difficulty swallowing when a tumor is near the upper stomach.
Evaluation
Upper endoscopy with a biopsy is the primary test used for diagnosis. CT imaging, endoscopic ultrasound, and other studies may be used to determine how far the disease has spread.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or a combination of approaches. Care is usually coordinated with oncology and surgery.
Anemia means the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively. Gastroenterologists often evaluate anemia when blood loss or poor nutrient absorption from the digestive tract may be contributing.
Anemia
Anemia means the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively. Gastroenterologists often evaluate anemia when blood loss or poor nutrient absorption from the digestive tract may be contributing.
Overview
There are many forms of anemia. From a gastrointestinal standpoint, common concerns include iron deficiency from slow blood loss, bleeding ulcers, colon polyps or cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and problems absorbing iron, vitamin B12, or folate.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, pale skin, or a rapid heartbeat. Mild anemia may cause few or no noticeable symptoms.
Evaluation
Testing may include a complete blood count, iron studies, vitamin levels, stool testing, and evaluation for gastrointestinal bleeding. Upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, or other studies may be recommended based on your age, symptoms, and laboratory findings.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on correcting the deficiency and identifying its cause. Iron or vitamin replacement may be needed, while gastrointestinal bleeding or malabsorption is treated according to the underlying diagnosis.
Cirrhosis is advanced, permanent scarring of the liver caused by long-term injury. It can interfere with blood flow through the liver and reduce the organ’s ability to perform essential functions.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is advanced, permanent scarring of the liver caused by long-term injury. It can interfere with blood flow through the liver and reduce the organ’s ability to perform essential functions.
Overview
Cirrhosis can result from metabolic fatty liver disease, chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, autoimmune liver disease, inherited disorders, and other long-standing causes of liver injury.
Common Symptoms
Early cirrhosis may cause no symptoms. As the disease progresses, patients may develop fatigue, poor appetite, easy bruising, swelling of the abdomen or legs, itching, jaundice, gastrointestinal bleeding, or confusion.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include liver blood tests, ultrasound or other imaging, noninvasive fibrosis testing such as elastography, and sometimes a liver biopsy. Patients with cirrhosis also require ongoing monitoring for complications.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on addressing the cause of liver injury, preventing and managing complications, and providing regular surveillance. Advanced disease may require evaluation by a liver specialist or transplant center.
Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent, hard to pass, or associated with straining or incomplete emptying. Persistent constipation can have many causes and may benefit from a structured evaluation and treatment plan.
Constipation
Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent, hard to pass, or associated with straining or incomplete emptying. Persistent constipation can have many causes and may benefit from a structured evaluation and treatment plan.
Overview
Constipation can occur when stool moves too slowly through the colon or when the muscles involved in evacuation do not coordinate normally. Diet, hydration, activity level, medications, medical conditions, and pelvic floor problems may contribute.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include fewer bowel movements than usual, hard or lumpy stools, straining, bloating, abdominal discomfort, or the feeling that the rectum has not completely emptied.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include a medication and dietary review, physical examination, blood tests, colon evaluation when indicated, and specialized testing for difficult or persistent cases.
Treatment
Treatment may include increased dietary fiber when appropriate, adequate hydration, physical activity, over-the-counter or prescription medications, and treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction or other underlying causes.
Diverticulosis means small pouches have formed in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis occurs when one or more of those pouches become inflamed, sometimes causing significant abdominal pain and other symptoms.
Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
Diverticulosis means small pouches have formed in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis occurs when one or more of these pouches become inflamed, sometimes causing significant abdominal pain and other symptoms.
Overview
Diverticulosis becomes more common with age and often causes no symptoms. Diverticulitis can range from uncomplicated inflammation to more serious problems such as an abscess, perforation, or obstruction.
Common Symptoms
Diverticulitis commonly causes steady abdominal pain, often on the lower left side, along with fever, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Diverticulosis by itself may not cause any symptoms.
Evaluation
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and an examination, with CT imaging often used when acute diverticulitis is suspected. A colon evaluation may be recommended later depending on the clinical situation and previous screening history.
Treatment
Management depends on the severity of the condition. Mild, uncomplicated cases may be treated with temporary dietary changes, pain control, and selective use of antibiotics. Complicated or recurrent disease may require hospitalization, drainage, or surgery.
Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus, while an esophageal stricture is a narrowing that can develop after repeated injury or inflammation. Both conditions may cause painful or difficult swallowing.
Esophagitis and Esophageal Stricture
Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus, while an esophageal stricture is a narrowing that can develop after repeated injury or inflammation. Both conditions may cause painful or difficult swallowing.
Overview
Common causes of esophagitis include GERD, eosinophilic esophagitis, certain medications, and infections. Repeated inflammation can lead to scar tissue and narrowing of the esophagus.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include heartburn, chest discomfort, pain while swallowing, difficulty swallowing solid foods, regurgitation, food impaction, or unintentional weight loss.
Evaluation
Upper endoscopy is commonly used to examine the esophagus, identify narrowing or inflammation, and obtain biopsies when needed to determine the cause.
Treatment
Treatment addresses the underlying inflammation. Acid suppression, treatment for EoE or infection, medication changes, and esophageal dilation may be used. Recurrent strictures sometimes require repeat or advanced endoscopic therapy.
Fecal incontinence is the inability to reliably control the passage of stool or gas. It is common, treatable, and may result from muscle injury, nerve problems, chronic diarrhea, constipation, or pelvic floor dysfunction.
Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence is the inability to reliably control the passage of stool or gas. It is common, treatable, and may result from muscle injuries, nerve problems, chronic diarrhea, constipation, or pelvic floor dysfunction.
Overview
Normal bowel control depends on the anal sphincter muscles, rectal sensation, stool consistency, and coordinated pelvic floor function. Problems in any of these areas can lead to accidental leakage.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms range from occasional staining or leakage while passing gas to urgent bowel movements or complete loss of bowel control. Some patients also experience constipation, incomplete evacuation, or diarrhea.
Evaluation
Evaluation includes a detailed bowel history and examination. Depending on the suspected cause, testing may include colon evaluation, anorectal manometry, imaging of the sphincter muscles, or other pelvic floor studies.
Treatment
Treatment may include dietary changes, stool-regulating medications, pelvic floor therapy, biofeedback, and selected procedures. The treatment plan is tailored to the cause and severity of the symptoms.
Gastroparesis is delayed emptying of food from the stomach without a mechanical blockage. It can cause nausea, vomiting, bloating, early fullness, and difficulty maintaining nutrition.
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is delayed emptying of food from the stomach without a mechanical blockage. It can cause nausea, vomiting, bloating, early fullness, and difficulty maintaining proper nutrition.
Overview
The condition results from impaired stomach muscle or nerve function. Diabetes is a common cause, but gastroparesis may also occur after surgery, with certain medications, or without an identifiable cause.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include early fullness, nausea, vomiting of undigested food, bloating, upper abdominal discomfort, acid reflux, and weight loss. Blood sugar control can also become more difficult in patients with diabetes.
Evaluation
Upper endoscopy or imaging may first be used to exclude an obstruction. Gastric emptying testing is then used to document delayed stomach emptying.
Treatment
Management may include smaller, lower-fat meals, nutritional support, medication review, improved blood sugar control, medications that improve stomach emptying or nausea, and selected procedures for persistent disease.
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins and supporting tissue in the lower rectum or anus. They may cause bleeding, itching, discomfort, swelling, or prolapse, especially during or after bowel movements.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins and supporting tissue in the lower rectum or anus. They may cause bleeding, itching, discomfort, swelling, or prolapse, especially during or after bowel movements.
Overview
Hemorrhoids are commonly associated with straining, constipation, pregnancy, and prolonged pressure on the veins surrounding the anus. Internal and external hemorrhoids can cause different symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include bright red rectal bleeding, itching, irritation, swelling, pain, or tissue that protrudes from the anus. Significant or unexplained rectal bleeding should not automatically be assumed to result from hemorrhoids.
Evaluation
Diagnosis usually involves a focused examination and may include anoscopy. Additional colon evaluation may be recommended based on your age, symptoms, bleeding pattern, and screening history.
Treatment
Treatment may include fiber, hydration, stool-softening measures, topical symptom relief, and office-based procedures such as banding for selected internal hemorrhoids. Surgery is reserved for certain severe or persistent cases.
IBS is a disorder of gut-brain interaction that causes recurring abdominal pain along with changes in bowel habits. It does not damage the intestine, but symptoms can significantly affect daily life.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a disorder of gut-brain interaction that causes recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. It does not damage the intestine, but its symptoms can significantly affect daily life.
Overview
IBS may involve increased intestinal sensitivity, altered bowel movement patterns, changes in the gut-brain connection, and dietary or stress-related triggers. It may occur with constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of both.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, urgency, or the sensation of an incomplete bowel movement.
Evaluation
Diagnosis is based on a characteristic pattern of symptoms and the absence of warning signs. Limited blood or stool testing, or a colonoscopy, may be recommended when your medical history suggests another condition.
Treatment
Management may include dietary changes, fiber when appropriate, medications for constipation or diarrhea, antispasmodic or gut-directed therapies, and strategies that address the gut-brain connection.
Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably. Because early disease may cause few symptoms, prompt evaluation of concerning symptoms or abnormal imaging is important.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably. Because early disease may cause few symptoms, prompt evaluation of concerning symptoms or abnormal imaging is important.
Overview
The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. Pancreatic cancer risk increases with age and may also be associated with smoking, chronic pancreatitis, certain inherited conditions, family history, obesity, and diabetes.
Common Symptoms
Possible symptoms include persistent upper abdominal or back pain, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, unexplained weight loss, reduced appetite, nausea, or new changes in blood sugar.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include CT or MRI imaging, endoscopic ultrasound, laboratory testing, and a biopsy when needed. Some patients with a strong family or genetic risk may qualify for specialized surveillance.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of therapies. Gastroenterologists often assist with diagnosis, tissue sampling, bile duct treatment, and symptom management in coordination with oncology and surgery.
Rectal bleeding may appear as bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with stool. Although hemorrhoids and fissures are common causes, bleeding can also come from polyps, inflammation, diverticular disease, or cancer and should be evaluated when unexplained or persistent.
Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding may appear as bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with stool. Although hemorrhoids and fissures are common causes, bleeding can also result from polyps, inflammation, diverticular disease, or cancer.
Overview
The appearance of the blood can provide clues about where the bleeding originated, but color alone cannot determine the diagnosis. Bleeding may arise from the anus, rectum, colon, or occasionally from higher in the digestive tract.
Common Symptoms
Bleeding may occur alone or with pain, changes in bowel habits, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, or symptoms of anemia. Black, tarry stools can suggest bleeding from the upper digestive tract.
Evaluation
Evaluation may include an examination, blood counts, stool tests, colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, or imaging, depending on the amount of bleeding and accompanying symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment depends entirely on the source and may include medication, hemorrhoid treatment, removal of polyps, endoscopic control of bleeding, or surgery. Heavy bleeding, fainting, black stools, or vomiting blood requires urgent medical attention.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the inner lining of the colon and rectum. Treatment is aimed at controlling inflammation, achieving remission, and preventing complications.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the inner lining of the colon and rectum. Treatment is intended to control inflammation, achieve remission, and prevent complications.
Overview
Unlike Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and involves continuous areas of inflammation beginning in the rectum. The exact cause is not fully understood but involves abnormal immune responses in genetically susceptible individuals.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include bloody diarrhea, urgency, rectal bleeding, abdominal cramping, frequent bowel movements, fatigue, and weight loss. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may occur in flare-ups.
Evaluation
Diagnosis generally includes a colonoscopy with biopsies, along with blood and stool testing to assess inflammation and exclude infection.
Treatment
Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medication, immune-targeted therapies, biologic or small-molecule medicines, and surgery when the disease is severe or complications occur. Long-term monitoring also includes colorectal cancer surveillance based on the duration and extent of the disease.
