Adult Gastroenterology

For adults suffering from symptoms of digestive disorders, such as heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, pain, or rectal bleeding, our academically-trained gastroenterologists will help diagnose and treat your symptoms with the most advanced technology and medical therapies available. They provide expert care for common to complex gastrointestinal issues in addition to colon cancer screening in our state-of-the-art endoscopy suites. 

Common Gastrointestinal Issues:

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)  

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD is a condition caused by the reflux of stomach contents (acid and/or bile) into the swallowing tube (esophagus). GERD is extremely common and is said to affect 10 to 20% of Western populations.

• Symptoms: Classic symptoms include a sour taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation) and burning in the chest (heartburn). Symptoms can also be atypical (laryngitis, chronic cough, sore throat, and asthma), particularly if the reflux reaches the back of the throat.
• Risk Factors: Things that can increase your risk of GERD include obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, reflux-provoking dietary habits, and meals close to bedtime. Typical dietary triggers include caffeine (coffee), chocolate, carbonated beverages (soda), tomato-based foods, spicy foods, and peppermint. Chronic GERD can cause complications such as ulcers in the esophagus and/or narrowed areas in the esophagus (strictures). Chronic GERD can also result in Barrett's esophagus (precancerous change in the esophagus lining due to repeated acid exposure).
• Treatment: There are several effective medications available to treat the symptoms of GERD, including H2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Your physician can help determine the best medicine for you. Upper endoscopy (also known as EGD) is an effective tool for diagnosing GERD complications and for diagnosing and monitoring Barrett's esophagus. At Crystal Run, our gastroenterologists perform Upper Endoscopy right on-site, in our state-of-the-art Endoscopy suites, and in our Ambulatory Surgery Center.

 
Barrett’s Esophagus

Barrett’s Esophagus is a precancerous change in the esophagus lining due to repeated acid exposure and is one of the known complications of acid reflux disease or GERD. It is common and is present in 1 to 5 % of the general population and 10 to 15% of patients with reflux symptoms.

• Barrett’s esophagus is a major risk factor for esophageal cancer
• 1 in 200 patients with Barrett’s will develop esophageal cancer each year
• Patients with dysplasia in their Barrett’s have a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer
• Your gastroenterologist will recommend screening for cancer with endoscopy and biopsy, typically every 6 months to 3 years depending on the state of your Barrett’s
• Strong antacid medication (PPI’s) may help prevent the development of cancer in patients with Barrett’s and are often prescribed for these patients
• Some patients with Barrett’s may be candidates for eradication with RFA (radio frequency ablation), a new endoscopic technique.
• Rarely, surgery may be recommended for select patients with Barrett’s

Useful Links:

American College of Gastroenterology

National Digestive Diseases, Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease