Southwest Gastroenterology Associates

One easy way to keep your digestive system healthy is to eat small, frequent meals. In fact, the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommends eating four to fibe small meals per day to achieve optimal digestion.

Did you know that the expression "gut feeling" may come from the fact that all the neurotransmitters found in the brain are also found in the GI tract? This means that elements like stress are linked directly from the brain to the stomach, causing symptoms like heartburn.

Acetaminophen is present in a variety of drugs, from cold medications to fever reducers. If you regularly take high doses of these types of drugs, you could be at risk for liver damage.

While gastroenterologists usually see patients in their own offices or in a hospital, some focus on research work or act as consultants to other types of doctors. Because gastroenterologists have an extremely thorough understanding of the process of digestion and the way food moves down the digestive tract, they are most qualified to treat problems involving these systems.

Almost 1 percent of the American population has Celiac disease, a gastrointestinal disease that is related to autoimmunity issues. If your gastroenterology doctor has diagnosed you with Celiac disease, then you will be best served by a gluten-free diet.

It may take some trial and error to determine how to best treat your digestive issues. While it may be tempting, it is recommended you avoid fasting and colon cleansing products without consulting with us for your safety.

When you have unexplained weight loss, your first reaction may be elation. However, if it continues to a point that feels unhealthy, let’s take a look at your digestive system to determine if everything is functioning properly.

If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), there are certain dietary guidelines you can follow. These include gradually reducing animal protein and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. It’s also good to consume a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber (25 to 35 grams a day).

Before you are scheduled for a colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist will evaluate whether you're ready for this procedure (either in person or by reviewing your test results and other medical information). Once it is determined that you are ready, you will be contacted and given instructions to prepare for the procedure.

Most bowel diseases can be eliminated completely or at least managed by adjusting diet and lifestyle, but for those that can’t be fixed with diet, we can work with you to help you find the treatment you need.

Most hernias occur when a piece of intestine slips through a weakness in the abdominal wall, creating a bulge you can see and feel. Some hernias come on suddenly, while others grow slowly over the years or are even present at birth.

There is positive news about colorectal cancer. It begins in virtually all cases as a polyp, and when diagnosed early, statistics show that the five-year survival rate for patients 90 percent.

Gallstones are the most common cause of acute pancreatitis. The gallstones, which are made of hardened bile, cause significant inflammation as they pass through the body. Normally, acute pancreatitis can be resolved in a couple of days, though it can be extremely dangerous if not reported to a doctor.