Common Esophageal Conditions

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Positioned in the center of the chest, the esophagus is the top part of the digestive system. Though the esophagus can vary in size among individuals, esophageal conditions can affect everybody. Regardless of whether you require acid reflux relief, treatment for Barrett’s esophagus, or esophageal cancer treatment, finding the right medical experts to help you is imperative.

When you’re searching for ways to manage esophageal concerns, it’s important to have an experienced and dedicated group of gastroenterology providers you can rely on. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, our GI physicians are available to help. Request an appointment with a member of our team today to receive help for esophageal disorders in New Orleans, LA.

How many individuals experience esophageal disorders?

Esophageal conditions are experienced by a large percentage of people in the United States. As reported by the American College of Gastroenterology, gastroesophageal reflux disease, often referred to as GERD, is experienced by 20% of the nation’s population, and cancer of the esophagus ranks within the top 10 most common cancers across the globe. Some esophageal cancers are associated with lifestyle habits, like tobacco use and alcohol consumption, while other types are associated with persistent acid reflux in individuals with GERD.

On average, acid reflux is experienced by approximately one-third of adults, and the chronic allergic inflammatory disease eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is experienced by around 1 in 2,000 people. Dysphagia, a condition characterized by swallowing difficulties, can affect one out of every six adults, as reported by the Dysphagia Research Society.

In the event you think you may be having esophageal issues and are looking to find the right approach for treatment, you certainly aren’t the only one. Request a visit at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates near you. Our team can appropriately diagnose and address your condition so that you may get relief from your symptoms.

What are common esophageal disorders?

You might begin to notice certain symptoms impacting esophageal function, such as trouble swallowing, pain in the chest area while eating, heartburn, or food getting stuck in the esophagus. Such symptoms might indicate esophageal issues that need care. A few of the most common conditions involving the esophagus include:

  • Dysphagia
  • Barrett’s esophagus
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Esophagitis
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • Eosinophilic esophagitis
  • Acid reflux

To find esophageal treatment in New Orleans, LA, request a consultation with our specialty group. We will partner with you to identify a treatment strategy suited to your individualized needs. Whether it’s managing GERD symptoms or addressing esophagitis, we can deliver dependable treatment when you need it most.

When should you receive care from a GI physician?

Getting esophageal treatment from a GI physician may be necessary if you experience persistent symptoms that continue for more than 14 days. It’s also essential to seek treatment if the symptoms are impacting the quality of your sleep, if you notice sudden shifts in the frequency or intensity of your symptoms, or if you experience significant pain or discomfort.

Esophageal disorders can impact patients of all ages. If you or someone you love are experiencing esophageal concerns, there’s no need to deal with them alone. When you schedule a consultation with our GI experts at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we can help you get the quality care you require. Our digestive health professionals enjoy delivering solutions that have a positive impact on your health and wellness.

Esophageal care you can count on

At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we’re proud to be a team of providers who can help you deal with the esophageal conditions that are causing you stress. To hear more about such disorders and to attain advanced esophageal care from a New Orleans, LA gastroenterologist you can trust, request a visit, and partner with our practice today.

What are Common GI Conditions Among Women?

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Although digestive diseases affect both males and females, certain gastrointestinal conditions are more widespread among women. This might be because of the differences in the structures of the gastrointestinal tract between men and women. Hormonal shifts that occur in women’s bodies because of menses, pregnancy, and menopause may also render GI conditions, such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), more extreme in women.

If you or a loved one have been experiencing gastrointestinal concerns, please seek gastrointestinal disease treatment in New Orleans, LA. The extensive group of gastroenterologists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates diagnoses and treats common digestive diseases in women, helping patients relieve symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.

What are the primary differences between women’s and men’s GI systems?

Though the function of the gastrointestinal system in women and men is structured identical, there are a handful of distinct differences that call for a slight adaptation in how gastrointestinal concerns are treated. Beginning at the top area of the gastrointestinal system, a woman’s lower esophageal sphincter (which is the ring of muscles that keep food from passing back up the esophagus) shuts more tightly than a male’s. Women generate less stomach acid than men. Additionally, their stomachs empty much slower. The large intestine in a woman is around ten centimeters longer than it is in a man’s body, as the gastrointestinal organs share space with the reproductive organs. As a whole, a woman’s digestive system activities take more time than a man’s.

Which digestive problems are more common among women?

There are several digestive concerns that affect women more frequently than men. Some of the most common GI problems in women involve:

  • Gastroparesis: This condition occurs when the stomach fails to empty fast enough, which could lead to GI issues, like bloating, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. This condition is more commonly diagnosed in women.
  • Celiac disease: This is an autoimmune disorder wherein consuming gluten causes damage to the small intestines. Celiac disease is more commonly diagnosed in women than in men.
  • Gallstones: These are hardened cholesterol that develops into crystalline deposits in the gallbladder. Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with this condition than men.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome: Women are two times as likely to have this condition, which impacts the small bowel and colon, compared to men. Moreover, IBS symptoms can be associated with a woman’s menstrual cycle, intensifying in severity toward the beginning of the period.
  • Constipation: A common gastrointestinal problem, constipation occurs when stool becomes hard or dry and difficult to pass. Women are three times more likely to experience constipation than a man.

If you or a family member notice any of GI conditions mentioned here, then help is within reach through Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Request a consultation with one of our gastroenterology specialists in New Orleans, LA today to help treat your GI condition.

How can women maintain proper gastrointestinal health?

Heeding healthy habits can help maintain and support good gastrointestinal health and wellness, no matter if you are a woman or a man. Some of the habits that can help keep your gastrointestinal health on track include:

  • Getting regular exercise
  • Seeing a GI specialist for digestive symptoms
  • Drinking adequate water daily
  • Consuming smaller meals more frequently
  • Managing a healthy weight
  • Decreasing stress
  • Consuming more high-fiber foods

Need help with GI issues in New Orleans, LA?

Should you experience any troubling symptoms associated with your GI tract, then connect with the expert GI doctors at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to get the care you need. As a physician-led group of gastroenterology providers, we regularly treat gastrointestinal disorders in New Orleans, LA patients. Our team can help you ease your symptoms and experience an improved quality of life.

Improving Outcomes for Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery

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Is chronic pain and mobility loss causing you to consider a knee or hip replacement? You can take active steps to improve the success of your total joint replacement if you make specific lifestyle changes before the procedure.

When to Consider Total Joint Replacement

Chronic pain can result when the cartilage that lines the ends of the bones becomes worn or damaged from arthritis or fracture. Your orthopedist may recommend total joint replacement if nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, medication and modified activities fail to relieve your pain and disability.

Knee and hip replacements are the most common joint replacements. However, replacement surgery can be performed on other joints like the wrist, shoulder, elbow and ankle.

Having a Successful Total Joint Replacement Procedure

Matthew Abdel, MD, a Mayo Clinic orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee replacement, said patients can take an active role in having a successful surgery. Dr. Abdel suggests following these tips to improve the success of a knee or hip replacement:

  1. Find safe ways to lose weight. Even losing 20 pounds can make a significant difference in the outcome of surgery. Talk to your doctor about your body mass index. Your target body mass index is less than 40 kilograms per square meter (kg/m2).
  2. Make sure chronic conditions like diabetes are under control. Ask your primary care physician about glycemic control. Your HgA1C should be less than 7.5 before you have hip or knee replacement surgery.
  3. Do not use nicotine products. Your hip or knee procedure will be more successful if you stop smoking cigarettes and cigars and do not use chewing tobacco at least six weeks before surgery.
  4. Stop taking narcotics. Cease taking all narcotic pain medication at least 14 days before surgery.
  5. Reduce or stop using alcohol. Heavy alcohol use can alter the effects of anesthesia.
  6. Call your doctor about illness. Patients who become ill with a cold, fever or influenza in the days before surgery should contact their doctor.

Obesity, Bariatric Surgery and Joint Replacement

Obesity is one of the highest risks of joint replacement surgery because it increases the likelihood of post-surgical complications like instability and infection. Dr. Abdel and his colleagues conducted a study showing patients who had bariatric surgery to help them lose weight still had significant complications after the joint replacement procedure.

“We think it may have something to do with the bariatric patients’ underlying system, such as their gut microbiome and underlying genetic host variation,” Dr. Abdel said. “Even though they lost the weight, the soft tissues and underlying collagen status were still of their original nature.”

What May or May Not Help Knee or Hip Replacement

Certain changes will not improve the outcome of total joint replacement, like using wound creams, taking vitamins and supplements or using electrical stimulation. Other changes like pre- or post-operative physical therapy may or may not be effective in improving knee or hip replacement outcomes.

Call a Local Orthopedist for Consultation

If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, call your orthopedist. At your appointment, you can discuss options for physical therapy, medication or surgery if necessary.

 

Patients Skip Colon Cancer Screenings Because of Obesity Stigma

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Early diagnosis of diseases like colon cancer saves millions of lives each year. Getting a quality cancer screening test is important to diagnose diseases early.

Unfortunately, some patients who are overweight or obese are avoiding life-saving cancer screenings. British researchers reported some patients fear their doctor’s judgment about their weight. The report was published online in Obesity Science and Practice.

Delaying or avoiding cancer screening tests like colonoscopy may hurt a person’s health. Lead researcher Yitka Graham said these screenings are “vital to early diagnosis and favorable outcomes.”

In the report, women living with obesity were less likely to be screened for cervical cancer. Men who were overweight or obese were less likely to be screened for colon cancer, according to the review.

People avoided screenings because of “embarrassment, negative body image and trouble with imaging equipment.”

Excess Weight Increases Colon Cancer Risk

If your weight is higher than what is considered healthy for your height, you may be overweight or obese. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. A high BMI can indicate being overweight (BMI 25-<30) or obese (BMI >30).

According to the World Health Organization, 650 million adults worldwide are obese.

Excess weight increases the risk of developing 12 types of cancer, including colon cancer. So, timely screenings are crucial for early diagnosis and prevention.

“Getting recommended cancer screenings is critically important for people with obesity, who may be at a higher risk for some cancers,” Kristen Sullivan told MedicalXpress. Sullivan is the director of nutrition and physical activity at the American Cancer Society (ACS).

Graham is head of the Helen McArdle Nursing and Care Research Institute at the University of Sunderland in the United Kingdom. She said healthcare professionals need to encourage people to access healthcare services without fear of stigma or judgment.

“This has implications for early clinical interventions needed to diagnose, assess and treat common cancers, with the consequence of potential adverse outcomes and increased cancer mortality for those living with obesity,” Graham told MedicalXpress.

Sullivan said some doctors are educating themselves on how to reduce biases and stereotypes against patients with higher BMIs.

In the meantime, Sullivan told MedicalXpress that people who are overweight or obese must be their own advocates.

Don’t Delay Colon Cancer Screening

In 2020, about 12 percent of all cases of colorectal cancer occurred in individuals younger than 50, according to the ACS. Patients diagnosed before age 50 were more likely to have advanced disease at diagnosis.

By 2030, 10.9 percent of all colon cancers and 22.9 percent of all rectal cancers will affect patients younger than 50. This is compared with 4.8 percent and 9.5 percent, respectively, in 2010.

Colorectal cancer cases have been increasing in adults ages 40-54. Recently, healthcare agencies started recommending screenings begin at 45 for people at average risk for the disease. If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, you should be screened earlier. People with digestive symptoms should consult their physician regardless of age.

Individuals with higher BMIs risk their health by avoiding recommended colon cancer screenings.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. With screenings starting at 45, the ACS reports that 60 percent of colon cancer fatalities could be prevented.

Many screening methods are available, but a quality colonoscopy is the gold standard. This procedure allows your doctor to see the entire length of the colon to examine for and remove precancerous polyps. It is the only screening that can both detect and prevent colon cancer.

No matter your weight, if you are 45 or older, don’t delay colon cancer screening. Take the first step to better health and schedule a quality colonoscopy.

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Poor Vision Can Be Misdiagnosed as Cognitive Decline

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Cognition tests that rely on vision-dependent activities may skew results for up to 25 percent of adults over 50 with undiagnosed eye problems like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

A new study by the University of South Australia suggests millions of elderly people with vision problems are being misdiagnosed with cognitive decline.

What Are Cataracts and Macular Degeneration?

Visual impairments affect approximately 200 million people worldwide over the age of 50. Cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are common causes of vision loss but do not affect cognitive function. Cataracts are a clouding of the eye lens and are the leading cause of vision loss in adults over 55. Over half of Americans will develop a cataract by age 75.

AMD affects five percent of Americans aged 65 and older. Although it does not cause blindness, it affects the ability to drive, read, cook and do everyday tasks.

Poor Vision or Cognitive Impairment?

Poor vision can often be misdiagnosed as early brain decline when cognitive tests assess only visual ability. Researchers from the University of South Australia studied 24 participants with normal vision and asked them to complete two cognitive exams. One exam included vision-dependent activities, and the other used verbal-based metrics.

When the participants used glasses to simulate AMD, they received much lower scores on brain tests involving reaction time tasks compared to when they were not wearing the glasses. The research team noted no difference with verbal fluency tests when participants used the simulation glasses.

“The diagnosis of [mild cognitive impairment (MCI)] can trigger psychological problems (e.g., depression and anxiety) due to the stigma of cognitive impairment,” said University of South Australia PhD candidate Anne Macnamara. “For people with AMD, who are already experiencing physical and psychological issues due to vision loss, the multitude of repercussions that inaccurate cognitive assessments causes are an unneeded additional burden” (Scientific Reports).

Improving Screening Procedures to Include Verbal Tasks

Unfortunately, vision problems are often missed in clinical and research environments. The research team estimates experts underestimate visual impairments in half of all older adults. This statistic will increase as the population ages, so it is crucial that researchers examine vision when analyzing cognitive function in older people.

“Mobile apps can now be used to overlay simulated visual impairments onto test materials when piloting their stimuli,” Macnamara said (Medical Xpress). “Also, researchers can incorporate quick and simple screening tasks before getting people to do cognitive tests. Verbal tasks should always be part of the assessment, too.”

Call Your Ophthalmologist for a Comprehensive Eye Exam

When was the last time you visited your ophthalmologist for a yearly comprehensive eye exam? An eye exam looks at more than just your vision. It offers a glimpse of your overall wellness. Many chronic conditions show early signs in the eyes, such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.

Call today to make an appointment for the whole family. Early detection and treatment of eye diseases like macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy can preserve vision and prevent further eye damage.

How to Keep Your Gut Healthy This Summer

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Summertime is moving our way, which means fun in the sun and much-needed relaxation time. Before hitting the beach or hopping on a plane to embark upon your much anticipated great adventure, don’t lose sight of how important it is to keep helpful habits that rarely fail to amplify your gut health. With temperatures rising and exhaustion on the incline, your gut health is likely to get burned out during the summer. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, our gastrointestinal physicians have set our goal to bring you the treatment and knowledge you need and deserve in order to benefit from a healthy digestive system. Flip the proverbial page as our New Orleans, LA team explains the best practices to maximize your gut health all summer long.

What is it about summer that is hard on gut health?

The summer months are known to be brutal on your gut wellness, making a healthy gut have trouble and any pre-existing GI problems worse. A few of the primary factors that can open the door to poor gut health and problematic GI symptoms, like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, are:

  • Dehydration: High temps mean your body consumes fluids to stay cool at a higher rate, and you might not be maintaining pace in replenishing lost fluids.
  • Lack of consistent eating habits: If you’re traveling or treating yourself to summer indulgences, it can prove difficult to think ahead to plans for a healthy meal.
  • Fatigue: Summer past-times might leave you with a shortage of energy, which in turn, impacts your digestive health.

If you suffer from a pre-existing GI problem, monitoring your summertime carefully can mean the difference between summer months of healthy relaxation and a vacation spent in abject misery. To learn more about ways to manage your individual GI issues, get in touch with any one of our skilled GI specialists in New Orleans, LA.

How do I sustain good digestive health over the summertime?

With some thoughtful planning, a person can ensure a healthy digestive system throughout the summer. Revel in your vacations or relaxing pool days comfortable in the fact that you are taking measures to make certain your gut also has a fabulous time. A partial list of the simplest ways you can keep up your summer health are:

  • Drink plenty of water: Remain hydrated, specifically in the event that you are spending time in the sun and sweating a lot. Dehydration may cause constipation, among additional bothersome digestive woes.
  • Eat foods rich in fiber: Eat some dark green vegetables and add some scrumptious summer fruits in your diet to supplement your fiber consumption, which assists digestion.
  • Try probiotics: Your gut houses a precise level of good bacteria. One way you can power charge your digestive health is by lending support to those helpful bacteria with probiotic foods and supplements.
  • Plan healthy meals: All of those summer indulgences like barbeque, soda, and ice cream may be enjoyable in moderation, but remember to arrange ahead of time for nutritious dinners to avoid forcing your gut into overdrive.
  • Get a good amount of exercise: Watch out for extreme heat or humidity warnings, but a leisurely jog in your neighborhood during sunset is a great way to ensure your gut stays active.

When should you consult with a specialist regarding digestive health?

If you experience any of the symptoms listed below persistently during your summertime celebrations, it is time to seek a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates physician to assist you in identifying the root at your earliest opportunity:

  • Pain in your abdomen
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Difficulty passing stool
  • Chronic heartburn

If you suffer from blood in your stool, you should seek a gastroenterology specialist in New Orleans, LA immediately.

Maintain a healthy summer digestive system

The summer months can push your digestive system to labor harder to keep your body healthy and functioning properly. Give your gut the gift of good health during the summertime, and make sure to practice healthy habits that will make sure you don’t have to waste a second of your summer feeling under the weather. Should you need help or support managing a GI problem over the summer, don’t delay in reaching out to our practice to identify a GI specialist in New Orleans, LA. Our physician-led network of gastroenterologists is devoted to providing patient-centric treatment to people exactly like you. Reach out to Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates at your earliest convenience to hear more.

Common Signs and Symptoms of an Unhealthy Gut

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Troublesome symptoms, such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, or unintentional weight loss, can be more than a mere annoyance. If you have persistent indications of poor digestive health, you could be affected by a serious gastrointestinal condition. It’s important to never neglect the signs of poor GI health. Should you have symptoms that are unusual, such as a fluctuation in bowel movements or cravings for certain foods, discuss it with an experienced gastroenterology specialist in New Orleans, LA. By talking with a doctor at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, you can learn about conditions involving your gastrointestinal tract and learn how to enhance your overall well-being.

What are common symptoms of an unhealthy gut?

It’s not uncommon to have an occasional stomach ache or experience heartburn from time to time. Persistent trouble with gastrointestinal system issues may indicate that something is impacting your digestive health. Should you notice any of these symptoms persistently, it may be a sign of an unhealthy gut:

  • Skin allergies/irritations: Inflammatory skin concerns, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis, have been connected to GI health.
  • Mood fluctuations: Depression and anxiety may be a result of an unhealthy gut.
  • Migraines: Severe headaches might indicate that a problem is occurring in the gastrointestinal system, especially if nausea and vomiting also occur.
  • Autoimmune conditions: An imbalance in digestive bacteria can initiate issues with autoimmune diseases.
  • Fatigue: Experiencing exhaustion all the time can be related to trouble with nutritional absorption in the gut.
  • Changes in stool: If you have noticed a change in the color or consistency of your stool, like if you experience loose or light-colored stools, then it might be time to investigate with a medical provider.
  • Food cravings: Yearnings for certain foods, such as sugar, can be a sign of an imbalance in gut bacteria or nutritional deficiency.
  • Stomach discomfort: Ongoing bloating, gas, or constipation could be a sign that your gastrointestinal tract is having trouble digesting food and getting rid of waste products.
  • Unexplained weight changes: An unexplained, abrupt gain or loss in weight could mean your body is struggling to store fat, absorb nutrients, or eliminate waste.

In the event you notice any of the above signs or symptoms, or other concerning symptoms, such as repetitive acid reflux or blood in your stool, please get in touch with one of our GI specialists in New Orleans, LA to have your gastrointestinal health assessed.

What diseases or conditions might lead to poor gastrointestinal health?

The issues or symptoms you experience could be a sign of a serious GI health disease or condition. Some of the diseases that can result in the signs and symptoms featured above include:

  • Celiac disease: The way in which the body’s immune system responds to gluten results in damage to the small intestine.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease result in inflammation in the digestive tract.
  • Cancer: GI cancers, such as colon or rectal cancer and stomach cancer, can lead to severe issues in the digestive system.

How can I improve my gut health?

Though it is essential to practice healthy habits, it is recommended that you talk with a physician if you are experiencing issues linked to an unhealthy gut. A Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates doctor can identify whether a more serious issue needs to be assessed or if lifestyle changes can help you elevate your gut health. Any of the following factors might be suggested by your doctor:

  • Get regular exercise
  • Identify food intolerances
  • Increase the fiber in your diet
  • Get 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night
  • Include probiotics in your diet
  • Consume plenty of water
  • Quit smoking

Get help for poor GI health in New Orleans, LA

If you notice signs or symptoms of poor gastrointestinal health, it can indicate a concerning condition. We urge you to not disregard the signs your body is sending you through an upset stomach, food cravings, and unintentional weight changes. To best understand and detect any digestive disorders, you can connect with a digestive health specialist in New Orleans, LA. To locate an experienced gastroenterologist near you, reach out to Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. When you partner with our team, you can receive patient-focused services to help you improve and manage your digestive wellness which, in turn, could help you enjoy a better quality of living.

June is Men’s Health Month: Facts and Stats About Colon Cancer in Men

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You’ve likely noticed day-to-day changes in bowel habits depending upon the kinds of foods you ingest and the daily medications taken. However, a persistent change in bowel movements could signal a more serious medical condition. Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among the U.S. population, according to the American Cancer Society. Moreover, the lifetime chance of having colon and rectal cancer among males is about 1 in 23.

June is designated as Men’s Health Month. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, our team is dedicated to helping people learn the indications of colon and rectal cancer, know the facts surrounding colorectal cancer, and understand the statistics so they’re empowered to take control of their health. Continue reading to learn additional information about colon and rectal cancer from our New Orleans, LA gastroenterology experts.

What is colon cancer?

Colon and rectal cancer is a form of cancer that occurs in the colon (large intestine) when the cells in this part of the digestive tract begin to proliferate out of control. It impacts the gastrointestinal tract and the normal function of the colon and the rectum. Most of the time, this malignancy begins as a growth called a polyp that develops on the inner lining of the large intestine or rectum.

When armed with the right information and details, you can help the people you care for live healthier and happier by sharing with them the facts about colon cancer in men. Seeking a consultation with the GI physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is an excellent way to make certain you or your loved one obtains the ideal care and information required for colon health.

The statistics and facts about colon cancer in men

As reported by the American Cancer Society, it is forecasted that there will be 106,180 new cases of colon cancer in the United States in 2022. Given the increase in healthcare and colon exams, however, the number of incidences has receded since the mid-80s. When cancer of the colon is diagnosed early, the disease can often be resolved. When rectal cancer is found at a localized stage, the rate of survival is very favorable. Other things to acknowledge when discussing colon and rectal cancer include:

  • The chance of experiencing cancer becomes higher as you age
  • Incidence rates are 30% higher in males than in females
  • The median age for a cancer diagnosis is 66 years among men
  • Physical activity is strongly associated with a lower chance of colon cancer (not rectal cancer)
  • Diets with higher amounts of fiber, whole grains, dairy, and calcium can lower the risk of developing colon and rectal cancer

To discover further information surrounding colorectal cancer or to hear more about the risk factors for colon cancer in men, please set up a consultation with one of our GI doctors in New Orleans, LA. Their advanced expertise and training surrounding the disease will help you along in your journey to health and wellness.

Understanding the common colon cancer symptoms in men

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer in men can aid you in making healthy changes for yourself or a family member. Some of the prevalent colon cancer symptoms involve the following:

  • A persistent fluctuation in your bowel movements (constipation, diarrhea, or the consistency of stools)
  • Anal bleeding or blood in the stool
  • Ongoing abdominal discomforts, such as gas, pain, or cramps
  • A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss

In the event you or a family member have any of the colorectal cancer symptoms listed above, meeting with a colonoscopy specialist in New Orleans, LA may be an appropriate action to take. Taking control of your health and becoming familiar with the symptoms of colon cancer in men can save a life. To hear additional details about what can be done to take preventive steps, or to appropriately treat the disease, connect with a gastrointestinal physician at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.

Get screened for colorectal cancer in New Orleans, LA

Cancer of the colon or rectum can impact everyone, but understanding the elevated risks that men have is a great start toward preserving colon health in honor of Men’s Health Month this June. If you are of age or at increased risk, meeting with a GI physician at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates can help ensure your health is preserved. For additional details about colon cancer or other digestive health conditions, please get in touch with our practice today.

Cataract Surgery Restores Vision Clarity

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Are your eyes more sensitive to bright lights while driving your car at night? Do the colors of objects seem faded or yellowed? Are you experiencing blurry or double vision in one or both eyes?

If you answered yes to these questions, you may be one of about 24 million Americans aged 40 or older who has cataracts.

June is Cataract Awareness Month. A cataract is the clouding of the normally clear natural lens of your eye. Cataracts happen when proteins in your lens break down, preventing the light passing through the lens from focusing, which leads to objects around you looking hazy or blurry. Cataracts normally develop in everyone as we age.

Cataracts Impair Eyesight, Affect Lifestyle

Cataracts are easy to diagnose during a routine eye exam. Early symptoms of cataracts may be improved with new glasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses or magnifying lenses, but cataract surgery is the only effective treatment once glasses no longer help. If not treated, cataracts may cause near-complete loss of vision, but even at this level, vision is fully recoverable with surgery.

“Many adults in the U.S. have postponed their medical care and procedures throughout the pandemic, including elective surgeries,” said Indira Venkat, Vice President, Consumer Insights at AARP. “It’s important to keep in touch with your health care providers to maintain good health and wellbeing, especially for older adults who are more likely to have chronic health conditions” (Institute for Healthcare Policy & Innovation).

Impaired eyesight caused by cataracts can prevent you from living an active lifestyle and doing activities you love with family and friends. Patients with cataracts benefit from readily available, sight-restoring treatment.

IOLs Replace Cloudy Eye Lenses

The U.S. National Eye Institute reports that cataract surgery is one of the safest, most common and most effective surgical procedures performed in the United States. Approximately 4 million cataract surgeries are performed every year in the U.S. and nearly 28 million worldwide (Healio).

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that involves removing your cloudy lens from your eye and replacing it with an artificial lens called an IOL, or intraocular lens. An IOL is a clear, plastic lens that becomes a permanent part of your eye and requires no care.

You and your doctor decide which type of IOL is right for your visual needs and your lifestyle. Examples of IOLs include the following:

  • Monofocal lenses: These offer vision at one distance only (far, intermediate or near). You may still need to wear glasses with these lenses. Medicare or health insurance usually covers the cost.
  • Toric IOLs: These can be used to correct astigmatism. These lenses provide clear distance vision; however, you may still need glasses to read. An extra fee most likely will be added to the cost.
  • Multifocal IOLs: These are designed to help you see near, far and intermediate with as little glasses or contact use as possible. These premium lenses cost more out of pocket but offer you the best chance to see without wearing glasses or contact lenses.

This outpatient surgery only takes a few hours from the time you arrive at your appointment until you are released to go home. The surgery itself generally takes less than 30 minutes, allowing you to return to your life quickly.

If you are experiencing vision problems and think you may have cataracts, don’t delay your care. To get an accurate diagnosis, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with your ophthalmologist.