Diverticulosis occurs when the inner layer of intestines presses through weakened areas of the outer muscular layer causing small pockets to form in the digestive tract. Diverticulitis develops when one or more of these pockets become infected or inflamed. Symptoms Diverticulosis usually causes no noticeable symptoms. When diverticula become infected or inflamed, however, patients may … Continued

What is Diarrhea? Everyone has experienced the loose, watery and sometimes painful stools of diarrhea at some time. Usually diarrhea lasts only a couple of days and is no cause for concern. Whenever it lasts for weeks, it can point to a serious condition that requires medical attention. Diarrhea can be characterized as Acute—usually lasts … Continued

Not being able to go to the bathroom is frustrating, uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Most people experience some difficulties with bowel habits from time to time; however, constipation may be an ongoing problem for some. If you can’t go or if you have painful bowel movements, it might be time to talk to your doctor. … Continued

A colon polyp is a small growth found on the intestinal lining. While most polyps are not dangerous, over time some can develop into cancer. Polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy, a procedure allowing the doctor to examine the inside of the large intestine. The removal of polyps is painless and can be accomplished … Continued

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease characterized by a reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. For individuals with celiac disease, eating gluten causes an immune response in the small intestine that over time damages the lining of the small intestine and keeps nutrients from being absorbed. While there isn’t … Continued

Cancer occurs when cells in the body mutate into an abnormal form. These rogue cells divide quickly, creating tumors or invading tissues and blood in the body to make a person sick. Cancer can be scary, particularly if you don’t understand what is going on in your body. An oncology doctor specializing in cancer medicine … Continued

Barrett’s esophagus refers to a change in the esophagus lining from tissue resembling normal mouth lining to something that looks more like stomach lining with specialized mucus secreting cells.  Chronic acid injury is the favored theory regarding the occurrence of Barrett’s esophagus. Symptoms Barrett’s esophagus produces no particular symptoms. Most people seek help and are … Continued

Everyone experiences abdominal pain from time to time.  Pain alerts us to changes in processes within the body that may require medical attention. The severity, duration, and pattern of pain helps physicians determine a course of action. Some types of pain are medically urgent while other types are temporary consequences of behavior. When should I … Continued