A colonoscopy is used to detect colorectal cancer and polyps. Your doctor is able to evaluate your large intestine and rectum to spot any early signs of potentially life-threatening illnesses.

A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, plan for additional time at the facility for preparation before the procedure and recovery afterward. You can expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours total at the clinic. Recovery usually involves resting until the sedation wears off, and you'll need someone to drive you home.

The cost of a colonoscopy can vary depending on your insurance coverage. For uninsured patients, the price typically ranges between $1,000 and $2,500. We recommend contacting our office for specific pricing details based on your individual situation and insurance plan. We are happy to work with you to explore payment options and make sure you understand the costs upfront.

Most patients are sedated during a colonoscopy and will not be fully awake or aware. The sedation makes the procedure comfortable and reduces anxiety, allowing you to rest throughout. Some patients may be lightly sedated and can respond to questions but will likely have little memory of the procedure.

If a polyp is found during your colonoscopy, it can often be removed immediately. Polyps are small growths on the inner lining of the colon, and while most are benign, some can become cancerous over time. Removing them helps reduce the risk of colon cancer, and your doctor will explain any findings after the procedure.

After a colonoscopy, it’s best to start with light, easily digestible foods like soups, broths, and crackers. Gradually, you can return to your normal diet, but avoid heavy or greasy foods for the first day to prevent stomach discomfort.

No, you cannot drive yourself home after a colonoscopy because you will be sedated during the procedure. The sedative will impair your ability to drive, so it’s important to arrange for a family member or friend to take you home.

Colonoscopy is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. These may include bleeding, especially if a polyp is removed, or perforation (a tear) in the colon wall, which is rare. Your doctor will discuss all potential risks with you before the procedure to ensure you’re fully informed.

Any results or records from your appointments can be sent to your primary care doctor.

Our office can prescribe medications if we deem them a necessary part of your treatment plan.

Most insurance policies will cover gastroenterology treatment. Check with your policy to see if you are covered.

Upper endoscopy is a procedure that your doctor may use to inspect the lining of your stomach, esophagus, or small intestine. This may be necessary to diagnose certain gastrointestinal conditions.

If our physicians find anything suspicious, we may remove a tiny portion of tissue to test for cancer or bacteria. This removal is painless.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the esophagus where a type of white blood cell, called eosinophils, accumulates in the lining of the esophagus. This build-up leads to inflammation, which can cause difficulty swallowing, food impaction, chest pain, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

EoE is typically caused by an immune response to certain allergens, particularly food allergens like dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, or environmental triggers such as pollen. The body's immune system reacts by sending eosinophils to the esophagus, leading to chronic inflammation.

Those at risk for developing EoE include individuals with a family history of the condition, people with other allergic disorders such as asthma, eczema, or hay fever, and males, as EoE is more common in men than women. It often appears in children and young adults but can occur at any age.

Gastrointestinal inflammation refers to the swelling and irritation of the digestive tract, which can affect any part from the esophagus to the intestines. It is commonly caused by infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), autoimmune conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and other factors like food intolerances, chronic stress, and long-term use of certain medications. There are several types of gastrointestinal inflammation, including gastritis (stomach inflammation), enteritis (inflammation of the small intestine), and colitis (inflammation of the colon), each presenting unique symptoms based on the affected area.

Gastrointestinal inflammation is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and diagnostic tests. These may include blood tests, stool tests, endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs to identify the specific area and cause of inflammation. In some cases, a biopsy may be taken to examine tissue samples.

Treatment for gastrointestinal inflammation depends on the underlying cause. It may include dietary changes, medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics for infections, or immunosuppressants for autoimmune conditions. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue. Lifestyle modifications, including stress management and avoiding food triggers, are often recommended to help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

To reduce GI inflammation and provide relief, various medications may be recommended, including:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Antibiotics for infections in the GI tract
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
• Acid suppressants to reduce acid reflux and gastritis

Preventing gastrointestinal inflammation involves a combination of healthy lifestyle habits and avoiding known triggers. To reduce the risk of inflammation, it's important to manage stress, maintain a balanced diet, avoid smoking, limit alcohol intake, and stay hydrated. Regular exercise and proper sleep also play key roles in maintaining gut health.

Dietary changes can significantly help manage and prevent gastrointestinal inflammation. Focus on a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids). Avoiding processed foods, refined sugars, and known food allergens or intolerances (such as gluten or dairy) can also reduce inflammation. Probiotics and fiber-rich foods can support digestive health by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.

Diarrhea is a condition characterized by loose, watery stools and an increased frequency of bowel movements, typically lasting a few days. It can be caused by infections, food intolerances, medications, or temporary digestive issues, and often resolves on its own or with short-term treatment.

Chronic diarrhea, on the other hand, persists for four weeks or longer and may indicate an underlying health issue, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, or chronic infections. Unlike acute diarrhea, chronic diarrhea requires a thorough medical evaluation to diagnose the cause and develop a long-term treatment plan.

Diarrhea is a very common condition, affecting people of all ages worldwide. Most individuals experience diarrhea a few times a year, often due to infections, food intolerances, or digestive disturbances. It is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal complaints and typically resolves within a few days.

The symptoms of diarrhea include loose, watery stools, an urgent need to have a bowel movement, abdominal cramps or pain, bloating, and sometimes nausea or dehydration. In more severe cases, diarrhea may also be accompanied by fever or blood in the stool, which requires medical attention.

Diarrhea can be caused by various infections, including:

• Viral Infections: Viruses like norovirus and rotavirus are common culprits of diarrhea. Viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as the "stomach flu," is a frequent cause of acute diarrhea.
• Bacterial Infections: Bacteria can enter the body through contaminated food or water, leading to diarrhea. Common bacteria that cause diarrhea include Campylobacter, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, and Shigella.
• Parasitic Infections: Parasites can also cause diarrhea by settling in the digestive tract after entering the body through contaminated food or water. Parasites that commonly cause diarrhea include Cryptosporidium enteritis, Entamoeba histolytica, and Giardia lamblia.

Infections in the digestive tract that spread through food or drink are known as foodborne illnesses. When these infections last longer than 2 weeks but less than 4 weeks, they can cause persistent diarrhea.

The primary symptom of diarrhea is passing loose, watery stools three or more times a day. In addition to this, individuals with diarrhea may experience:

• An urgent need to use the bathroom
• Cramping
• Loss of control over bowel movements
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain

If diarrhea is caused by an infection, additional symptoms may include:

• Bloody stools
• Fever and chills
• Light-headedness and dizziness
• Vomiting

Diarrhea can also lead to complications such as dehydration and malabsorption.

Traveler's diarrhea occurs when you consume food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites while traveling, particularly in developing countries. It is usually acute, but in some cases, parasitic infections can cause diarrhea that lasts longer. This condition is a common concern for travelers visiting regions with lower sanitation standards.

Many medications can cause diarrhea as a side effect. Common culprits include:

• Antibiotics: These can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to diarrhea.
• Antacids Containing Magnesium: These are known to cause loose stools in some individuals.
• Cancer Treatments: Certain medications used to treat cancer may also lead to diarrhea.

Some bacterial and parasitic infections that cause diarrhea may not resolve quickly without treatment. After an infection, some individuals might develop difficulties digesting carbohydrates like lactose or proteins found in foods such as cow’s milk and soy, which can prolong diarrhea.

Chronic diarrhea is a condition where diarrhea persists for four weeks or longer, with symptoms that may be continuous or come and go. Several factors can contribute to chronic diarrhea, including infections, food allergies and intolerances, digestive tract disorders, abdominal surgery, and long-term use of certain medications.

Yes, allergies to foods like cow’s milk, soy, cereal grains, eggs, and seafood can lead to chronic diarrhea. Intolerances, such as lactose intolerance or fructose intolerance, can also trigger diarrhea after consuming specific foods or drinks.

Lactose intolerance is a common condition where consuming milk or milk products leads to diarrhea. This occurs because the body is unable to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products.

Fructose intolerance causes diarrhea after eating foods or drinking beverages containing fructose, a sugar found in fruits, fruit juices, and honey. Fructose is also used as a sweetener in many processed foods and soft drinks in the form of high-fructose corn syrup.

Yes, sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol, which are often found in sugar-free candies and gum, can cause diarrhea in some people. These ingredients can be difficult for the body to digest, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort.

Chronic diarrhea can result from various digestive tract conditions, including Celiac Disease, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), and Ulcerative Colitis. These conditions disrupt normal digestive processes, leading to persistent diarrhea.

Yes, chronic diarrhea may develop after abdominal surgery, which involves operations on organs such as the appendix, gallbladder, large intestine, liver, pancreas, small intestine, spleen, or stomach. Surgical changes to the digestive system can sometimes lead to ongoing diarrhea.

Certain medications, especially those taken for extended periods, can lead to chronic diarrhea. For example, antibiotics can disrupt the normal balance of gut flora, increasing the risk of infection with Clostridium difficile, a bacterium that can cause severe diarrhea.

High liver enzymes can be a result of lifestyle factors or may indicate a more serious underlying health issue. If your recent blood test showed elevated liver enzymes, it’s important not to panic. Often, this result can be linked to certain lifestyle choices. The next step is to identify the root cause. Be open and honest with your doctor about your lifestyle habits, as this information will help in pinpointing the cause and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Yes, alcohol consumption can cause liver enzyme tests to show elevated levels. If you drank alcohol the day before your blood test, it might result in temporarily high liver enzymes. In this case, it’s advisable to retake the test a few days later after avoiding alcohol to see if the levels remain elevated. It’s also important to note that regular alcohol consumption (two or more drinks a day) or frequent binge drinking can lead to severe liver damage over time, potentially resulting in liver disease or cancer.

Yes, a variety of medications can cause elevated liver enzyme levels in blood tests. Some of these medications include:

• Pain relievers like aspirin, Tylenol, Advil, and Aleve
• Anti-seizure medications like Dilantin, Depakote, and Tegretol
• Antibiotics like tetracyclines and sulfonamides
• Cholesterol-lowering medications like Crestor, Lipitor, and Mevacor
• Cardiovascular medications like Cordarone and Apresoline
• Antidepressants
• Niacin

If you suspect that your medications are causing elevated liver enzymes, inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This will help your doctor determine if the medication is the cause and address any potential issues with your test results.

If you continue to receive high liver enzyme test results and are not drinking alcohol, taking related medications, or overweight, it's important to see your doctor to determine the underlying cause. We can provide in-depth blood tests and liver ultrasounds to help pinpoint the health issue responsible for your elevated liver enzymes.

Yes, Celiac Disease, an autoimmune disorder where the body reacts to gluten in the diet, can cause elevated liver enzymes. Some patients with Celiac Disease have elevated liver enzymes at the time of diagnosis, even without experiencing any gluten intolerance symptoms. However, after following a gluten-free diet, liver enzyme levels often return to normal.

High liver enzymes can be an indicator of liver cancer. Factors such as alcohol abuse, hepatitis, diabetes, or being overweight can increase your risk of developing liver cancer. Through advanced testing, we can determine whether your elevated liver enzymes are related to liver cancer.

Yes, hepatitis is a virus that can cause high liver enzymes and may lead to liver disease. There are three types of hepatitis (A, B, and C), each with different transmission methods and risks. For instance, hepatitis can be contracted through contaminated water, risky behaviors like sharing syringes, or unprotected intimate contact with an infected individual. We can accurately test for hepatitis and provide the appropriate treatment based on the type and severity of the infection.

GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. GERD is also commonly known as acid reflux or acid reflux disease, as the condition involves the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis or damage to the esophageal lining.

Acid reflux is fairly common, with most people experiencing it occasionally. However, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a more serious and long-lasting form of acid reflux. GERD can lead to more significant health issues over time. It affects about 20 percent of the U.S. population.

Anyone can develop GERD, sometimes for unknown reasons. However, you are more likely to have GERD if you:

• Are overweight or obese
• Are pregnant
• Take certain medications
• Smoke or are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke

The most common symptom of GERD is regular heartburn—a painful, burning sensation in the middle of your chest, behind your breastbone, and in the middle of your abdomen. However, not all adults with GERD experience heartburn. Other common symptoms include:

• Bad breath
• Nausea
• Chest pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
• Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
• Respiratory issues
• Vomiting
• Tooth erosion

GERD is primarily caused by a weakened or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Contributing factors include obesity, certain foods (like spicy or fatty foods), smoking, pregnancy, and conditions that increase pressure on the abdomen. Medications, such as pain relievers or certain muscle relaxants, can also trigger GERD.

If you experience frequent or severe heartburn, regurgitation, or difficulty swallowing, especially if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, you should seek immediate medical attention. Chest pain, unintended weight loss, or difficulty swallowing could indicate complications or more serious conditions related to GERD.

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. There are two main types of hemorrhoids: internal hemorrhoids, which develop inside the rectum and are usually painless but can cause bleeding, and external hemorrhoids, which form under the skin around the anus and can be painful, especially if they become swollen or thrombosed (clotted).

Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the veins of the rectum and anus, which can result from straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, sitting for long periods, pregnancy, or obesity. Aging and a low-fiber diet can also contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.

Risk factors for hemorrhoids include chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods (especially on the toilet), obesity, pregnancy, aging, and a low-fiber diet. These factors increase pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to swelling and the development of hemorrhoids.

To prevent hemorrhoids, it’s important to maintain healthy bowel habits. This includes eating a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote regular, soft bowel movements. Staying hydrated, avoiding straining during bowel movements, exercising regularly, and avoiding long periods of sitting, especially on the toilet, can also help reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Maintaining a healthy weight and managing constipation with appropriate treatments can further lower your risk.

Diagnosing hemorrhoids involves a comprehensive review of your medical history, an assessment of your symptoms, and a physical examination. This approach helps our team determine the underlying cause and develop an effective treatment plan.

The symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching or irritation around the anus, pain or discomfort, swelling in the anal region, bleeding during bowel movements (bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet), and, in some cases, a lump or swelling near the anus that may be sensitive or painful. Internal hemorrhoids usually cause painless bleeding, while external hemorrhoids can be painful, especially if they become thrombosed (develop a clot).

Complications of hemorrhoids are rare but can include persistent pain, significant bleeding, anemia from chronic blood loss, and infection. Thrombosed hemorrhoids can cause severe pain and swelling, and in some cases, they may require medical intervention or surgery if the clot doesn't resolve on its own.

Anal pain is discomfort or pain felt in or around the anus or lower rectum. It can range from mild to severe and may be caused by various conditions, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures (small tears in the lining of the anus), abscesses, infections, or even muscle spasms in the pelvic floor. Anal pain may also occur with bowel movements or sitting for extended periods.

To identify the cause of anal pain, healthcare providers will typically take a detailed medical history and conduct a physical examination. This may include a visual inspection of the anal area, a digital rectal exam, or in some cases, additional tests like an anoscopy or colonoscopy to examine the lower digestive tract. Identifying the exact cause is essential for proper treatment and relief.

Common causes of anal pain include hemorrhoids, anal fissures (small tears in the anal lining), and anal abscesses or infections. These conditions are usually associated with pain during or after bowel movements, itching, or swelling around the anus. Muscle spasms in the pelvic floor, such as in proctalgia fugax, can also cause brief episodes of anal pain.

Less common causes of anal pain may include conditions like anal fistulas (abnormal connections between the anus and surrounding tissues), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rectal ulcers, anal cancer, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In these cases, the pain might be persistent, severe, and accompanied by other symptoms like bleeding, discharge, or systemic issues like fever. If anal pain persists or worsens, medical evaluation is important to rule out serious conditions.

Sharp anal pain typically indicates an acute issue such as an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus often caused by passing hard stools. Sharp pain can also result from a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, where a blood clot forms, causing sudden and intense pain around the anus.

Anal pain accompanied by a sensation of pressure can indicate the presence of an abscess or infection, which causes swelling and a feeling of fullness in the area. It may also result from internal hemorrhoids, where increased pressure is felt but without the sharp, severe pain typical of fissures. In both cases, if the pain persists or worsens, a medical evaluation is recommended.

Itching anal pain usually indicates a skin condition in the perianal region. Common causes include anal yeast infections, hemorrhoids, and anal warts, which may be associated with the sexually transmitted disease Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Anal pain after bowel movements suggests that pooping is aggravating an existing condition, such as an anal fissure. Bowel movements can stretch the fissure, causing discomfort. Hemorrhoids can also be irritated by bowel movements, leading to prolapse or bleeding.

Menstrual cramps can affect the perianal and uterine muscles, leading to anal pain during your period. The body’s production of prostaglandin, a chemical that triggers muscle contractions, can cause sharp anal pain. Conditions like endometriosis can also irritate the rectum, causing anal pain and bleeding during menstruation.

Hemorrhoids and constipation are common during pregnancy due to the weight of the developing fetus putting pressure on the mother’s perianal nerves. This pressure can cause anal pain, especially when sitting. As pregnancy progresses and sitting becomes more frequent, the discomfort may increase.

If you're experiencing anal pain, it's important to first identify any common causes, such as constipation, hemorrhoids, or minor irritation. For mild pain, you can start with home treatments, which include taking warm sitz baths, using over-the-counter creams or ointments (such as those for hemorrhoids or pain relief), applying cold compresses to reduce swelling, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. Increasing your fiber intake and staying hydrated can also help relieve constipation and prevent further irritation.

If home treatments don’t provide relief or the pain persists, you should see a healthcare provider. They can diagnose the underlying cause of the pain and provide treatments, which may include prescription medications, minor procedures like draining an abscess or treating a thrombosed hemorrhoid, or in some cases, surgery for more serious conditions like fistulas or advanced hemorrhoids. It's essential to seek professional help if the pain is severe, accompanied by bleeding, or does not improve with home care.

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition where the muscles of the pelvic floor are weakened, overly tight, or fail to coordinate properly, leading to difficulties in controlling bowel movements, urination, or sexual function. Symptoms can include pelvic pain, pressure, incontinence, or discomfort during intercourse.

Pelvic floor dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors, including childbirth, chronic constipation, heavy lifting, obesity, aging, or trauma to the pelvic area. It can also develop from conditions that affect muscle control, such as nerve damage.

While pelvic floor dysfunction is not directly hereditary, some underlying factors that contribute to the condition, like connective tissue disorders or muscle tone issues, can have a genetic component. A family history of similar conditions may increase the risk of developing pelvic floor dysfunction.

Yes, pelvic floor dysfunction affects both men and women, although the symptoms and impact may vary between genders. In women, pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pain during intercourse, and difficulty with bowel movements. These symptoms often occur due to pregnancy, childbirth, or hormonal changes, which can weaken or strain the pelvic muscles.

In men, pelvic floor dysfunction may cause urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, pain in the pelvic area, and difficulty with bowel movements. It can result from prostate surgery, chronic constipation, or trauma to the pelvic region. Although the causes differ between men and women, both genders can experience significant discomfort and disruption in daily activities due to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder condition, can impact the pelvic floor muscles, preventing proper relaxation and causing muscle weakness. Those with interstitial cystitis are at a higher risk for pelvic floor dysfunction, and some medications for interstitial cystitis may worsen constipation, further aggravating the condition.

Pelvic floor dysfunction is diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, a review of symptoms, and sometimes specialized tests such as imaging or pelvic floor muscle function tests. A healthcare provider will assess the strength and coordination of the pelvic muscles and may use tools like ultrasound or MRI to get a clearer picture.

Treatment options for pelvic floor dysfunction vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. Common treatments include pelvic floor physical therapy to strengthen or relax the muscles, biofeedback, medications to manage symptoms, and in some cases, surgery if other methods don’t provide relief. Lifestyle changes, such as improving posture or adjusting bowel habits, can also help manage symptoms.

While pelvic floor dysfunction can often be managed effectively with treatment, it may not fully resolve without intervention. It is unlikely to go away on its own, especially if the condition has been present for a long time. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for symptom relief and long-term improvement.

Since pelvic floor dysfunction involves muscle issues, there are no surgical treatment options. If traditional treatments don't work, our team may recommend trigger point injections, which involve small injections of numbing agents and relaxation medication into the affected muscles.

Activities that increase tension in the pelvic floor muscles, like heavy lifting, jumping, or straining due to constipation, can exacerbate pelvic floor dysfunction. Neglecting therapy or medication can also increase pain and discomfort.

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by various factors including infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or stress. It can be either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) and may lead to complications if left untreated.

Common symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, and in some cases, indigestion or heartburn. In more severe cases, gastritis can lead to bleeding in the stomach, which may present as black stools or vomiting blood.

Gastritis is diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. These tests may include blood tests, stool tests, or an upper endoscopy, where a small camera is used to examine the stomach lining for signs of inflammation, infection, or damage. A biopsy may also be taken during an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.

The gut-brain axis refers to the constant communication between the enteric nervous system in the intestines and the central nervous system in the brain. This connection plays a significant role in both physical and emotional health. Individuals with gut-brain axis disorders often experience a combination of symptoms, including mood disorders like chronic stress, anxiety, and depression, alongside physical issues such as diarrhea, bloating, constipation, or an upset stomach, often seen in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The gut-brain connection explains why many people with IBS or other bowel disorders also experience anxiety or depression. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, patients may suffer from ongoing discomfort and emotional distress, leading to a reduced quality of life.