Schedule Cataract Surgery or Eye Procedure at an Outpatient Surgery Center

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Many hospitals and healthcare facilities are delaying elective surgeries and procedures, but it’s important to remember your eye procedure may be essential for your vision and health.

COVID-19 Delays Elective Procedures

Did your eye surgery get delayed because of the pandemic? With the resurgence of COVID-19, many hospitals are reallocating resources and delaying elective eye procedures like cataract surgery and glaucoma procedures.

The term “elective” does not refer to the importance of the procedure. Instead, it simply distinguishes between surgeries that are for emergencies and those that can be scheduled in advance.

For example, non-emergency hernia repair and knee replacement surgery are considered elective procedures because you can schedule them for a future date. Many eye surgeries are also labeled elective. However, each of these procedures can be essential for optimal health.

Importance of Prompt Eye Procedures

Low vision can prevent you from living an active lifestyle and doing the things you love. A canceled or delayed eye procedure means you may experience:

  • Challenges with reading or driving
  • Difficulty doing tasks around your home
  • Increased risk of falls or fractures

Consider an Ambulatory Surgery Center for Eye Procedures

Although many hospitals have delayed eye surgeries, there is another option. Scheduling your procedure at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) may be a good choice for several reasons:

  • Outpatient surgery centers dedicate themselves to specific procedures rather than emergency or trauma surgeries, so your appointment may be less likely to be affected.
  • Because many ASCs are smaller than hospitals, they are easily navigable and usually have convenient parking.
  • Your procedure could be more cost-effective.
  • Some patients say that ASCs feel more home-like and comfortable than hospitals.

Schedule Your Cataract Surgery Before Deductible Resets

Have you met your deductible already? Schedule your procedure before the end of the calendar year to take full advantage of your health plan’s benefits. Your deductible will reset in January, so contact your insurance company to verify your status. Cataract surgery is one of the most successful surgeries performed today, and it may be less costly than you think.

Find an Ophthalmologist Near You

Call your ophthalmologist to schedule a comprehensive eye exam for you and your loved ones. A yearly eye exam will ensure that your vision is clear and you are not at risk for common eye diseases and conditions.

Everything You Need to Know About Hemorrhoids

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Fact: Everyone has hemorrhoids.

You were born with them, and you’ll die with them, and we all just hope they won’t cause too much trouble along the way!

In fact, hemorrhoids are a normal part of our anatomy, and only become an issue if they are symptomatic.

But what are hemorrhoids exactly?

Simply put, hemorrhoids are veins around the anus or lower rectum that have become swollen and inflamed.

Hemorrhoids are common in both men and women and about half of all people will have an issue with them by the time they turn 50. Risk factors include frequent straining to have a bowel movement, pregnancy, obesity, aging, and chronic constipation or diarrhea.

Hemorrhoids can happen either inside the anus (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).

External hemorrhoids are dilated veins covered by the skin near the anal opening. They may be felt as bumps or lumps near the outside of the anus, and become painful when they are swollen with blood.

Internal hemorrhoids are dilated veins that form inside the rectum and above the anal opening. However, in some situations they may enlarge and protrude out of the anus.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids

Both external and internal hemorrhoids may have no symptoms. But if they do, typical things to watch for include:

  • Bright red blood covering the stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl
  • Itching
  • Pain and discomfort

Additionally, external hemorrhoids may also produce a hard, painful lump that is a result of blood pooling or clotting under the skin.

What is the treatment for hemorrhoids?

There are a variety of treatment options for hemorrhoids, such as a warm bath and use of a cream or other medicines. Patients with large hemorrhoids or ones that have not responded to other treatments may need banding or surgery.

Even if you choose to treat hemorrhoids at home, you should see us if there is any rectal bleeding to rule out a more serious condition like colorectal cancer.

Preventing hemorrhoids

There are a few ways to easily manage the symptoms of troublesome hemorrhoids:

  • Making sure you have regular, healthy stools. Stools that can pass easily decrease pressure and straining, which are both risk factors for hemorrhoids.
  • Increasing dietary fiber intake and drinking plenty of water.
  • Emptying your bowels soon after the urge to go occurs.
  • Not sitting on the toilet for more than 15 minutes, as this causes blood to pool down in those veins.
  • Adding exercise to your routine and walking regularly.

Contact us

If hemorrhoids are causing issues in your daily life, it may be time to visit us a seek treatment options.

Life is too short to feel miserable! Call Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan at (248) 273-9930 or request an appointment here.

Gastroenterologist Dr. Marsh Willis Retires after 30 Years

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The Physicians and Staff of Columbia Gastroenterology Associates Announce the retirement of Dr. Marsh Willis:

Dr. Willis has provided excellent care to his patients in Columbia since arriving in this city over thirty years ago.  Prior to that, he served his country as a physician in the United States Army where he completed his specialty training at the Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. We celebrate his distinguished career and dedication to his countless patients in this community.

His partners at Columbia Gastroenterology are grateful for his service and are honored to call him a friend and colleague.  We wish him great things in his future. We also assure his patients that the remaining physicians and staff are prepared to continue his record of providing excellent, compassionate care for his patients.

Opioids May Not be Effective for Knee Pain

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Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee pain in adults over 50. By age 70, about 27 percent of adults have knee osteoarthritis. Some common symptoms include swelling, loss of mobility, stiffness and chronic pain.

Arthritis pain management has been the topic of much debate. Some physicians prescribe prescription opioids to manage the pain of arthritis, but new research suggests opioids may do more harm than good.

According to a new study published in Arthritis Research and Therapy, opioids may not be effective in reducing pain and disability associated with knee osteoarthritis. Instead, opioids can cause unwanted side effects such as dizziness, nausea, constipation, sleepiness and addiction.

Jannis Bodden, MD, of the University of California, San Francisco, conducted a four-year study on opioid use and changes in knee structure. Dr. Bodden and her colleagues found that, compared to non-opioid users, opioid users showed:

  • Faster progression of arthritis
  • More structural degeneration of the knee
  • Worse quality of life
  • Higher mortality rate

“Despite the use of opioids, baseline symptom and pain control were worse in opioid users compared to controls,” noted Dr. Bodden and colleagues. “Loss of [quality of life] was more rapid in opioid users, when adjusted for baseline pain scores, further questioning long-term opioid use, particularly in view of major adverse effects associated with this medication.”

Natural Ways to Manage Chronic Arthritis

Medication can be one component of pain management, but doctors often recommend natural treatments as well. These may include:

  • Exercise — Physical activity can help you manage your weight, increase mobility and flexibility and strengthen muscles.
  • Cold and heat therapy — Warm showers, saunas, heating pads, ice packs and cold compresses can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Meditation and relaxation — Mindfulness can reduce stress and lower pain and inflammation.
  • Healthy diet — A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can increase antioxidants, boost immunity and reduce inflammation.

Call Your Orthopedist to Manage Your Knee Pain

You don’t have to live with chronic pain. Your orthopedist can help you manage knee pain with a customized treatment plan. Knee, hip and joint surgeries are among some of the most common and successful procedures performed today, and your doctor can discuss several options to suit your needs. Call today to make an appointment.

Does My Child Need to Wear Sunglasses?

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According to the World Health Organization, 80 percent of children’s UV exposure occurs before turning 18. If this is true, why aren’t more kids wearing sunglasses?

Eye protection from the sun is essential for all ages, but especially for kids. Most children receive more annual sun exposure than adults. This increased exposure to sunlight increases the risk of eye damage from ultraviolet (UV) light.

UV Exposure and Eye Problems

Adults have a mature lens, but children’s eyes cannot filter out UV rays as efficiently.  “UV radiation, whether from natural sunlight or indoor artificial rays, can damage the eye’s surface tissues as well as the cornea and lens,” said ophthalmologist Michael Kutryb, MD, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the dangers UV light can pose.”

By encouraging your children to wear sunglasses, you can help prevent them from developing:

  • Photokeratitis, or sunburn of the eye. This is a temporary condition from UV rays reflecting off water, snow, ice or sand.
  • Growths on the eye, like pterygium. This condition often affects young people in their teens and 20s like skiers, surfers or those who spend long days in the sun.
  • Cataracts, a common form of vision loss. A cataract forms when proteins in the eye lens clump together and the lens gets cloudy. UV exposure can hasten this process.
  • Macular degeneration, a condition that destroys the sharp, central vision, which is needed to see objects clearly.
  • Eye cancer, a rare but serious condition.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses to Protect Children’s Vision

Make eye protection a daily habit for the whole family. Because sun damage is cumulative, it is best to begin UV protection at an early age. Here are some ways you can decrease your children’s UV exposure:

  1. Purchase sunglasses with 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. Sunglasses do not need to be expensive, but they should meet the American National Standards Institute guidelines. Glasses should block between 99 and 100 percent of UVA (long-length) and UVB (short-length) rays. If your child wears corrective lenses, consider photochromic (transition) lenses. Transition lenses offer 100 percent UV protection.
  2. Select a wraparound lens. It is essential to protect the sides of the eyes, so choose a wraparound lens covering more skin. You can let your child help select the style, but make sure the sunglasses are durable as well.
  3. Choose the right sunglasses for activities. If your child is in sports, you may want to consider impact-resistant, scratch-proof polycarbonate lenses. Green or amber lenses are also great for contrast.
  4. Buy a spare pair of shades. Everyone forgets things from time to time, so keep a pair of sunglasses in each car or your bag.
  5. Be the example. Parents should wear sunglasses daily to set the standard for proper eye care.
  6. Apply sunscreen and wear hats. In conjunction with sunglasses, have your children wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to minimize UV exposure (Medical Xpress).

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Another essential component of vision health is a comprehensive eye exam. Has it been over a year since you saw your eye doctor? Then, it may be time to call the office and schedule exams for the family.

A complete eye exam takes less than an hour, and it tests for refractive errors, focusing problems and common eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. If your doctor detects a vision problem, you can begin treatment right away.

Colon Cancer Mortality Doubles if You Skip Your Colonoscopy

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Why is colonoscopy known as the gold standard for colon cancer prevention? It is because colonoscopy can detect and prevent colon cancer in a single test.

There are many colon cancer screening methods, but they are not equally effective. Although it is more invasive, colonoscopy includes a complete examination of the colon, and during the procedure, your doctor can remove precancerous polyps before they can develop into cancer.

Many people prefer less invasive stool tests for screening because they are quick and require no preparation. The challenge with these fecal immunochemical tests  (FIT) and fecal occult blood tests, however, is that they are less precise than colonoscopies. They can only detect blood in the stool. They cannot detect polyps or tumors, and they cannot prevent colon cancer development.

New Study Confirms Colonoscopy Lowers Colon Cancer Mortality

A recent study published in Gut BMJ confirms the importance of choosing a colonoscopy. You are twice as likely to develop deadly colon cancer if you have a positive stool test and decide to skip your follow-up colonoscopy.

Manuel Zorzi, MD, MSc, from the Veneto Tumor Registry, Azienda Zero, Padova, Italy, and colleagues conducted a study on patients aged 50 to 69 who took a fecal immunological-based colon cancer test (FIT). When comparing the incidence and mortality among patients who tested positive on their FIT, Zorzi found the ten-year cumulative mortality for colon cancer was 6.8 per 1,000 for patients who completed a diagnostic colonoscopy and 16 per 1,000 for patients who did not.

“The excess risk of [colon cancer] death among those not completing colonoscopy after a positive fecal occult blood test should prompt screening programs to adopt effective interventions to increase compliance in this high-risk population,” said Zorzi.

Choose the Best Colon Cancer Screening for Your Health

Colon cancer is common, but it is preventable. Nothing works better than a colonoscopy to reduce your risk for the disease. Both the American Cancer Society and the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) changed their recommended age for baseline colon cancer screenings from 50 to 45 for all adults at average risk for colon cancer, so you may be due for a screening.

Many patients worry about the cost of a colonoscopy, but most insurance plans will pay for a screening colonoscopy. Stool tests are also considered screening exams. However, if the stool test comes back positive, the next step is a follow-up colonoscopy. This time, the procedure will be considered a diagnostic test, and the patient will have more financial responsibility. Therefore, it makes more sense to get a free or low-cost screening colonoscopy up front than to pay more for a diagnostic procedure later.

Yes, a colonoscopy takes more effort. It does require a day off work and bowel preparation, but the low-volume colon prep solution is much more palatable than it used to be. Moreover, depending on your test results, you may only have to repeat a colonoscopy every ten years. That’s better than a yearly stool test!

Colon Cancer Prevention Begins With an Expert GI Doctor

Schedule a colonoscopy today. Call our office to make an appointment for this potentially life-saving procedure.

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How Accurate Are Home Screenings for Colorectal Cancer?

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There has been recent media coverage regarding people who received a medical co-payment fee from a colonoscopy performed after having a positive Cologuard® test. We’ve provided a few links to the report, which appeared in a number of publications:

CBS News: Woman hit with nearly $2,000 unexpected bill for colon cancer screening

U.S. News & World Report: Could Home Test for Colon Cancer Mean a Big Medical Bill to Come?

People: Missouri Woman Billed $1,900 for Colonoscopy After Previously Taking an At-Home Cancer Test

A matter not reported in the article is that a large quantity of these test results can be false-positive, prompting people to worry about having polyps or cancer and being faced with a potential medical co-pay even when receiving a negative colonoscopy result.

One recent study involving 450 individuals, exhibited at Digestive Disease Week in May 2021, revealed that only two percent of individuals with a positive stool test had colon cancer. Moreover, two-thirds of the individuals received a false-positive result, which may have generated more out-of-pocket costs for a colonoscopy to confirm the results of the home test, as described by the media reports. Furthermore, many health insurance plans will provide benefits for a simple colonoscopy that detects and minimizes the chance of colon and rectal cancer as a preventive service.

Facts about colon and rectal cancer

Colon cancer, or cancer of the large intestine, causes the death of more than 50,000 lives every year. It is the second most common type of cancer fatality in the U.S. Colorectal cancer can be prevented, treated, and overcome, but only when detected accurately and early on. Because this cancer commonly arises as growths, or polyps, in the lining of the colon (large intestine), identifying and removing these growths is the most effective option to guard against colon cancer.

There are three main methods of screening for colorectal cancer:

  1. Colonoscopy – 95% of large colon polyps are identified
  2. Stool DNA (Cologuard testing) – 42% of large colon polyps are detected
  3. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) – 30% of large colorectal polyps are discovered

Colonoscopy exams are regarded as the gold standard for finding polyps in the colon. Polyps detected throughout the course of a colonoscopy test are removed during the process, often eliminating the requirement for additional procedures.

In the event that potential polyps are detected through a Cologuard or positive FIT test, a colonoscopy will have to be performed to eliminate the intestinal growths. Bigger growths could remain undetected with FIT and Cologuard tests. When polyps fail to be identified and removed, the risk of developing colon cancer increases significantly.

Recently, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended that screenings for colorectal cancer begin at age 45 vs. 50. As a result, an additional 22 million adults age 45 – 49 should be assessed for colon cancer this year. While home colorectal cancer screening tests may appear to be a more accessible, cost-effective process, it is essential to realize that a colonoscopy is the only screening method that has the ability to identify and protect against colon and rectal cancer.

Detecting vs. preventing colon cancer

Home colon cancer screenings (such as Cologuard) are intended to discover cancerous markers (DNA) in the fecal specimen provided. But in 58% of cases, dangerous precancerous growths aren’t discovered at all with Cologuard kits. A screening test, like Cologuard, should be completed every 36 months if initial test results provide a negative outcome. Cologuard has a history of providing a substantial amount of false-positive and false-negative outcomes. In a recent survey, two-thirds of the participants who completed the Cologuard at-home test had false-positive results. A positive test outcome from the blood or stool screening requires that a colonoscopy be performed to confirm the outcomes. Since the blood or fecal test is deemed to be a “screening” assessment, the subsequent colonoscopy is regarded as a “diagnostic” colonoscopy.

Colonoscopies are examinations that serve to identify and protect against colon and rectal cancer. They detect over 95% of harmful, precancerous polyps, which are excised at the time of the procedure. A colonoscopy can also permit the biopsy of tissue for pathological testing to discover (with greater precision) if colorectal cancer is present. As a result, colonoscopy procedures are much more conclusive and provide preventive measures since they remove any precancerous polyps or abnormal cells identified in the large intestine.

The predominant specifications of colonoscopy procedures include:

Screening/preventive colonoscopies are carried out most often for asymptomatic patients (those with no previous or current intestinal issues) age 45 or older who wish to undergo a baseline screening to learn if they could be at early risk for colorectal cancer. This type of colonoscopy permits the doctor to identify any abnormal areas in the large intestine, such as growths and abnormal cells. Throughout the course of a screening colonoscopy, polyps (which can turn cancerous) can be eliminated and tissue samples can be performed to discover if malignant cells are occurring in the colon. A preventive colonoscopy is advised every ten years for patients without symptoms between the ages of 45 – 75 who carry no personal or family history of gastrointestinal diseases, colon polyps, or colon cancer. A large number of insurance carriers typically offer benefits for screening colonoscopies when performed for preventive reasons. It is important to consult with the insurance provider prior to having a colonoscopy to understand what is covered and whether there may be any out-of-pocket fees associated with the procedure.

Surveillance colonoscopies are performed if an individual has a history of GI disease, colon polyps, or cancer but may be asymptomatic (having no GI symptoms in the present or past). The requirement of a surveillance colonoscopy can range according to the individual’s personal history. Patients who have experienced colon polyps in the past would receive a surveillance colonoscopy and most likely have further surveillance exams every 2 – 5 years or so. It is important to check with the insurance provider ahead of undergoing any colonoscopy to determine coverage amounts and any estimated out-of-pocket expenses.

Follow-up/diagnostic colonoscopies are recommended if a person develops or has previously experienced polyps, GI symptoms, anemias, or a GI diagnosis or disease. A person’s health history and outcomes from any prior colonoscopy screening(s) determine the recommendation for a diagnostic colonoscopy. For example, if an individual undergoes a non-invasive colon cancer screening test, such as FIT or Cologuard, that generates any kind of positive result, a follow-up colonoscopy is generally required to verify the results of the screening evaluation. Follow-up colonoscopy procedures often require out-of-pocket payments, making it vital to speak with the insurance provider before having the procedure to gain an understanding of coverage amounts and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

For patients who are 45 years of age or older, it is important to have a colorectal cancer screening as a baseline and preventive measure to facilitate lasting colon health. It is also crucial to realize the disparities between colorectal cancer screening options and how each type works. Colonoscopy continues to be the most effective exam for detecting cancer and the sole form of colon cancer prevention available.

Hear more about colon and rectal cancer screenings in New Orleans, LA

If you have further concerns surrounding home colorectal cancer screenings or want to arrange for a colonoscopy, please contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our New Orleans, LA gastrointestinal experts are ready to provide the help you need for long-term digestive health and wellness. Colon cancer screenings are simple examinations that can save your life. Contact our caring team today to learn more.

 

Sources:

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Final Recommendation Statement, Colorectal Cancer: Screening. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/colorectal-cancer-screening

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. https://ww-w.asge.org/home/about-asge/newsroom/media-backgrounders-detail/colorectal-cancer-screening

Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. The American Journal of Gastroenterology 2017;112:1016-1030. http://doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2017.174

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Summary of Safety and Effectiveness Data (SSED). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf13/P130017b.pdf

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Journal, Volume 93, No. 6S: 2021 AB95

30 Days To Better Self-Care

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Fall is a great time to swing back into a routine. Take some time this season to get your life organized and feel your best.

Here are ideas for 30 days to better self-care that go beyond a day at the spa:

  1. Challenge yourself to drink more water. (Here are some creative ways to drink more.)
  2. Start a gratitude journal and list 5 things you are thankful for daily.
  3. Declutter the spaces where you spend the most time.
  4. Read a book.
  5. Make getting 8 hours of sleep each night a priority.
  6. Exercise daily, even if it’s just a 20-minute walk.
  7. Clean out your closet and keep only the clothing that fits and makes you feel good.
  8. Try a new activity.
  9. Practice yoga, or deep breathing.
  10. Take a hike on a new trail and track mileage in a wellness journal.
  11. Do a random act of kindness.
  12. Make a vision board for the year.
  13. Plan an outing with a friend.
  14. Head out to do some stargazing.
  15. Write down some inspiring quotes to hang on your bathroom mirror.
  16. Watch the sunrise or sunset.
  17. Create a healthy meal plan for the month (and make sure to chew slowly for better digestion).
  18. Spend some time near water.
  19. Take a break from social media – for a day, a week, or the entire month!
  20. Disconnect from technology one hour before bed.
  21. Spend a day in nature.
  22. Clean out your inbox and desk space.
  23. Print photos and put them into an album.
  24. Watch a comedy and laugh!
  25. Take a long, relaxing bath.
  26. Brainstorm and schedule services to use to make your life easier. (Get your house cleaned, arrange grocery pick-up, or get your vehicle detailed).
  27. Call a friend or relative you haven’t spoken with in a while.
  28. Take time to do something creative, such as taking an art class.
  29. Listen to an inspirational podcast.
  30. Schedule doctor appointments and preventative screenings to take care of your body.

We think the last one is the most important! If you haven’t scheduled a colonoscopy and are over the age of 45, it’s time to call us to schedule a visit.

Visit us today

No one looks forward to colon cancer screenings, but they are an essential part of preventive self-care. If you’ve been avoiding getting screened, don’t put it off any longer. A colon cancer screening is one of the most important gifts you can give your family – and yourself.

Visit Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, to set-up an appointment today.

How Does Gastroparesis Affect Your Health?

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Gastroparesis describes an immotile stomach. It is among the most serious and complicated gastric motility problems as it interferes with the normal involuntary movement of the stomach muscles. Under normal conditions, forceful muscular contractions in the stomach move food along the gastrointestinal (GI) system. If gastroparesis develops, however, the stomach’s ability to process food decreases significantly or may stop completely. Such a condition can prevent the stomach contents from emptying properly and may lead to a number of other health conditions.

Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is a premier source of specialized gastroparesis care. Since August is Gastroparesis Awareness Month, our team seeks to educate patients about this concerning GI disorder. To learn more about gastroparesis from a board-certified gastroenterologist in New Orleans, LA, please contact us today.

What are the signs and symptoms of gastroparesis?

About one out of 25 Americans, including young children, suffers from gastroparesis. The GI condition is more prevalent in females versus males, and it’s more common among patients who have had diabetes for some time. Patients who have gastroparesis might experience signs and symptoms, like:

  • Long-term abdominal pain
  • Acid reflux or heartburn
  • Frequent nausea
  • Feeling fullness even after eating very little
  • Stomach bloating
  • Poor appetite and unintended weight loss
  • Purging of undigested food
  • Inconsistent blood sugar levels

A number of patients who have gastroparesis do not experience any noticeable indications. In some cases, the condition appears fleetingly and subsides by itself or is diminished with professional care. Some cases may be less responsive to treatment.

What factors lead to gastroparesis?

The cause the gastroparesis isn’t always clear. However, physicians have pinpointed a number of factors that can contribute to the condition, including:

  • Amyloidosis: This disease develops when protein fibers accumulate in organs or tissues throughout the body.
  • Damage to the vagus nerve. Diabetes, viruses, and surgery to the small intestine or stomach can cause harm to the vagus nerve. Significant in managing the digestive tract, the vagus nerve stimulates the muscles in the gut to contract and propel food toward the small intestine. A damaged vagus nerve can’t properly signal the muscles in the stomach. In this instance, food might remain in the stomach for a longer period of time as opposed to moving into the small intestine for normal digestion.
  • Medications: Opioid, certain antidepressant, hypertension, and allergy medications can generate delayed gastric emptying and cause gastroparesis-like symptoms. Among patients already affected by the disease, these medications could worsen their conditions.
  • Scleroderma: This connective tissue condition can have an impact on the organs, muscles, blood vessels, and skin.

Health issues associated with gastroparesis are:

  1. Severe dehydration. Repeated purging of stomach contents can result in a dangerous state of dehydration.
  2. Poor nutrition. Appetite loss and repeated purging of stomach contents can cause inadequate nutritional intake and the inability to digest sufficient proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
  3. Undigested food. Undigested food in the stomach might solidify, forming a mass called a bezoar. Bezoars can cause nausea and vomiting and could cause death if they keep food from emptying out of the stomach.
  4. Unpredictable blood sugar changes. Even though gastroparesis isn’t a cause of diabetes, continual variations in the volume of and rate at which food passes into the small intestine might elicit unstable blood sugar levels. These variations in blood glucose worsen diabetes, which can cause further issues with gastroparesis.
  5. Diminished living quality. The negative impact of gastroparesis can make it tough to work and keep up with other life commitments.

How is gastroparesis detected?

A gastroenterologist specializes in digestive diseases, such as gastroparesis. After reviewing a person’s symptoms and health history, a GI doctor will carry out a physical exam and likely recommend lab work to evaluate blood sugar levels and other factors. Additional procedures conducted to diagnose gastroparesis may include:

  • SmartPill™ motility testing system: The SmartPill is a miniature, digestible capsule that holds an electronic device. Once the capsule is consumed and makes its way down the digestive tract, it conveys gastric readings to a device kept on the patient. This test tracks and records how fast food moves through the GI tract.
  • Four-hour solid gastric emptying study: Doctors can assess the time it takes food to empty out of the stomach with a gastric emptying study. Patients will consume a portion of food that has a radioactive isotope. An image of the stomach will be captured one minute after the meal is eaten. Additional imaging scans will then be completed at set intervals over the next several hours to analyze how the food moves through the stomach and the remainder of the GI system.

How do GI doctors treat gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a long-term health illness. While treatment generally doesn’t resolve the disorder, gastroparesis can be controlled and managed with medical care. Individuals living with diabetes are advised to actively monitor and manage their blood glucose amounts to curtail any issues with gastroparesis. Some patients could find gastroparesis treatment success with medications, such as:

  • Reglan: Reglan stimulates the stomach muscles to contract to help push food into the small bowel and reduce queasiness and vomiting. Adverse effects might include loose bowels and, in rare instances, a significant neurological concern.
  • Erythromycin: This antibiotic medication also stimulates stomach movement and aids in emptying the stomach. Other potential effects are loose bowels and the risk of developing resistant bacteria from taking the antibiotic over a period of time.
  • Antiemetics: These medications help prevent nausea.

Certain people may benefit from surgical procedures to treat gastroparesis, including:

  • Gastric bypass: During a gastric bypass, a little pouch is formed from the top part of the stomach. Half of the small bowel is connected directly to the new stomach pouch. This procedure greatly limits the volume of food the patient can take in, and may be more successful for an obese diabetic patient when compared with gastric electrical stimulation or medication therapy.
  • Gastric electrical stimulation: A small device referred to as a gastric stimulator is inserted into the abdominal area. This stimulator has two leads connected to the stomach muscles that provide minor electric shocks, which help minimize the urge to regurgitate.

Other ways to treat gastroparesis include:

  • Jejunostomy/feeding tube: When gastroparesis is advanced, a feeding tube or jejunostomy tube could be recommended. A tube is surgically placed through the abdomen into the small bowel. Liquid nutrients are put into the feeding tube, which go straight into the small bowel and into the bloodstream more rapidly. The jejunostomy tube is generally a temporary measure.
  • IV Nutrition: With this intravenous, or parenteral approach, nutrients directly enter the bloodstream by way of a catheter placed into a blood vessel in the chest wall. Similar to a jejunostomy feeding tube, IV nutrition is a temporary solution for addressing severe gastroparesis conditions.
  • POP: Peroral pyloromyotomy (POP) is a newer option in which the doctor inserts a long, flexible instrument through the mouth and esophagus and into the stomach. The pylorus (the valve that empties the stomach) is then severed, allowing the stomach contents to move into the small bowel more normally.

Can a certain diet help with gastroparesis?

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, a proper diet is a cornerstone of gastroparesis treatment and serves as a natural treatment approach. Doctors might also prescribe medication and perform other medical procedures to manage symptoms of gastroparesis. However, these interventions work more effectively if a certain diet is followed. A gastroparesis diet focuses on limiting the consumption of foods that are challenging to digest, such as fatty and high-fiber foods. This can facilitate digestion and lessen the risk of problems from gastroparesis.

In the event you are having gastroparesis signs or symptoms, or troubles related to a gastroparesis diagnosis, we encourage you to visit a New Orleans, LA gastrointestinal doctor near you immediately. Please call Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates today to reserve a consultation.

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