Central California Endoscopy Center Physician Performs Life-Saving Surgery

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A routine colonoscopy led to an unexpected diagnosis – and a life-saving surgery – for a Fresno, California man and his physician.

In November 2020, Dr. John Garry of Central California Endoscopy Center reviewed the findings from a colonoscopy performed on Tony Capozzi, an attorney in the Fresno area. The scope, Dr. Garry said, uncovered benign polyps, but it was markers of something much less common that caught the long-time colon and rectal surgeon’s attention.

“Interestingly in the upper rectum sigmoid colon and descending colon there were some really large, unusual blood vessels,” Dr. Garry said.

Capozzi was diagnosed with having an arteriovenous malformation (AMV) in his lower abdomen. An abnormal tangle of blood vessels connecting the arteries and veins, AMV disrupts normal blood flow and oxygen circulation.

Surprised by his “highly unusual” findings, Dr. Garry referred the case to his colleagues at Stanford Health Care, who also expressed shock over the diagnosis. It was decided that Capozzi continue his care locally with Dr. Garry and a team at Community Regional Medical Center, where Dr. Garry performed a nine-hour surgery to remove the mass of vessels.

“As soon as we opened the abdomen, we had an encounter of this massive abnormal appearing mesentery and tissue that just filled our entire incision,” Dr. Garry said.

The surgery was a success, as Capozzi spent 11 days recovering in the hospital before returning home and to his legal work defending clients in the Fresno area.

Speaking to KSEE, Fresno’s NBC affiliate, Capozzi said the trust he put in Dr. Garry and his team was rewarded with a new lease on life.

“As the days went on, (Dr. Garry) said, ‘It’s working. It’s just going to take time.’ And it did. I said, ‘I put my trust in you,’ and as the days went on, it got better and better, and the tubes started coming out, and I felt 100-percent better,” Capozzi said.

The ABCs of Celiac Disease

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The words “You have celiac disease,” may bring about many emotions – stress, sadness, and even grief over the loss of favorite foods.

While diving into the world of celiac disease may feel overwhelming at first, we’re here to remind you that while it is completely normal to feel a wide range of feelings, it is also important to know it is possible to have a happy and full life!

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is a genetic digestive and autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine, interfering with nutrient absorption from food. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have a range of physical and digestive symptoms.

It is important to schedule a visit with us if you suspect you may have celiac disease since it can cause malnutrition and other health issues.

Once diagnosed, there is a world of language you will be introduced to. Below, we breakdown those words and facts to simplify what life is like for those with celiac disease.

ABC’s of Celiac Disease

Autoimmune disease. Contrary to popular belief, celiac disease is not an allergy, it’s actually an autoimmune disease.

Bloating, cramping, constipation and diarrhea can be symptoms for those who are diagnosed.

Currently the only treatment of celiac disease is a lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet.

Development. Celiac disease can develop at any age after people start eating foods or medicines that contain gluten.

Estimated to affect 1 in 133 Americans, celiac disease happens in approximately 1 percent of the population in the U.S.

Finding foods that work for your body is key with celiac disease.

Gastroenterologist. The type of doctor that can diagnose celiac disease.

Hereditary. Celiac disease is hereditary, meaning that it runs in families. People with a first-degree relative with celiac disease (parent, child, sibling) have a 1 in 10 risk of developing celiac disease.

Immune response is what happens when people with celiac disease eat gluten.

Just read labels or ask questions. Products should be certified gluten-free to ensure no cross contamination occurred when making the food you plan to consume.

Knowledge is power! The more you know about what it means to have celiac, the better your quality of life will be.

Lip balm, medicine, and even envelope glue are a few examples of everyday items where gluten may pop up, though it is mainly found in food.

Malnutrition can be a symptom of celiac disease, so it is important to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Nutrient absorption is an issue for those with celiac disease and without proper care, it can cause damage to the small intestine.

Oats are a tricky food for those with celiac disease. While they do not contain gluten naturally, often times they are grown and harvested with wheat, which contains gluten.

People with celiac disease have twice the risk of developing coronary artery disease, and a 4 times greater risk of developing small bowel cancers.

Quinoa is naturally gluten-free and generally well tolerated by those with gluten sensitivity. Other gluten-free grains can be found here.

Re-invent. Eating a strict gluten-free diet can feel like a challenge at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to re-invent favorite meals to be compliant.

Symptoms can come in a variety of ailments. While some may be depressed, tired and irritable, others may experience seizures, missed periods and infertility, in addition to digestive issues.

Testing. Many people with celiac disease don’t know they have it. Two blood tests can help diagnose it as well as further investigations with an endoscopy or a capsule endoscopy.

Untreated, celiac disease can lead to additional serious health problems.

Villi are small fingerlike projections that line the small intestine. They work to promote nutrient absorption. When the villi get damaged through things like ingesting gluten, nutrients cannot be absorbed properly into the body.

Wheat, rye and barley are three ingredient triggers for people with gluten sensitivity.

Xanthan gum is a gluten-free ingredient for those who enjoy baking.

Your mental health is important, too. Being newly diagnosed with celiac disease can feel scary. Please give yourself grace as you start your journey.

Zillions of websites, recipes, and stores cater to living a gluten-free lifestyle, so there’s no shortage of resources available.

Overall, nothing can prepare you to chart the waters of celiac disease like visiting a doctor. Visit Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, to receive a true diagnosis of what’s causing your stomach issues so we can help you. Request an appointment with us today.

Before your visit: 15 things to track in a wellness journal

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Your stomach hurts, and you’re not sure why. Is it something you ate? Food poisoning? Cramps? If you are experiencing pain or other gastro symptoms on a regular basis – and it’s affecting your everyday life — it may be time to see a gastroenterologist.

Prior to your visit, consider writing in a wellness journal, which can be just a plain notebook. This simple tool can be a major help to the doctors diagnosing your condition. Taking some time in the weeks leading up to an appointment to track symptoms can be key for proper diagnosing. Not only will a wellness journal help you bring more awareness to things like the foods you eat and how often you move your body, but it can also help uncover patterns of when problematic symptoms occur.

For anyone looking to improve their digestive health, here are 15 things to track in a wellness journal and the questions to consider:

1. Food

What did you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner? What about snacks?

2. Water intake

How many ounces of water did you consume throughout the day? Aim for eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day.

3. Beverages

Besides water, what beverages are you consuming? Are they carbonated? Fruit juices with citrus? Caffeine? Take note!

4. Change to routine

Did you recently change jobs or add a child to the family? Are you waking or going to bed at a different time than usual?

5. Fasting

If you have a habit of intermittent fasting daily, note it.

6. Medications and supplements

Do you take a prescription medication or vitamins daily?

7. Mood

Do you find yourself more stressed and irritable lately? Note how that fluctuates from day-to-day.

8. Exercise

Do you take daily walks, or hit the gym on a regular basis?

9. Bloating

If you’re feeling bloat, make sure to indicate at what point in the day you feel it, and after which foods in particular.

10. Bowel movements, diarrhea and constipation

Make note of your daily bathroom habits, or lack thereof.

11. Gas

If you’re experiencing more than your daily amount of gas, take note.

12. Fatigue

Track your sleeping habits and what time you wake-up and go to bed on a daily basis.

13. Skin issues

Note any skin issues or abnormal rashes, as this can indicate a food or gluten sensitivity.

14. Weight

Make a note if you’ve recently gained or lost an excessive amount of weight.

15. Alcohol and tobacco consumption

During the day, did you drink a glass of wine or smoke a cigarette? These can trigger acid reflux/GERD.

If you do happen to have a diagnosis following your initial appointment, make sure to continue your wellness journal to look for additional patterns or foods that may trigger uncomfortable symptoms. You can also try these tips for keeping your GI tract running smoothly to see if that helps lessen symptoms you’re feeling.

Visit a gastroenterologist today

Visit Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, to receive a true diagnosis of what’s causing your stomach issues so we can help you treat it. Contact us today!

Medical Director and Nurses Serve as Volunteer Vaccinators

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The medical director and two members of the nursing staff from Surgical Center at Millburn in Millburn, New Jersey, have been giving back to the community by serving as volunteer vaccinators.

Dr. Andrew Levy, Medical Director, Jorge Sidron, Director of Nursing, and Melinda Colon, RN, have been volunteering at the Livingston Mall to help administer the initial COVID-19 vaccine to 1A healthcare and first responders. They began the initiative in December as part of an Essex County collaboration, and they have not stopped since.

“In these difficult times, it has been a special experience and an honor to help be a light at the end of the tunnel,” said Dr. Levy. “Few things are as rewarding as watching the effect of a vaccination on someone who has been unable to see their grandchildren in a year. The tears of joy and watching someone dance with their walker are not easily forgotten.”

Jorge Sidron said he is thankful to be able to serve the community and be a part of the vaccination effort. “As a nurse, volunteering to be among the first to administer the COVID vaccine to my fellow healthcare workers and first responders was both an honor and a privilege.”

Melinda Colon found that being part of the vaccination effort brought her back to the core of her profession. “Volunteering made me realize why I became an RN in the first place,” she said.

Get a Screening Colonoscopy for the Sake of Your Health and Your Family

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Staying well during the coronavirus pandemic is important, but are you sacrificing your colon health by delaying what could be a life-saving colonoscopy? You may think staying at home is a way you can do your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but having a colonoscopy is a basic form of preventive care that could save your life. Getting screened for colon cancer is a gift you can give your family because it means you will be present for years to come.

Colonoscopies and Colon Cancer Prevention

Your lifetime risk of developing colon cancer is about one in five, but most colon cancer cases are preventable with regular colonoscopies. A colonoscopy allows your doctor to examine the entire colon and remove any suspicious polyps before they can develop into cancer. Therefore, a colonoscopy is both diagnostic and therapeutic; it can detect and prevent colon cancer. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, removing cancer-causing polyps during a colonoscopy can lower the risk of death from colorectal cancer by 53 percent.

Even though research proves colonoscopies save lives, millions of Americans are not getting screened at proper intervals. As a result of COVID-19, colorectal screenings dropped significantly in 2020, with an 86 percent decline compared to averages before February 2020. This screening disruption translates to more undiagnosed cases of colorectal cancer for longer periods. Up to 10,000 more deaths are projected over the next decade as a consequence of postponed screenings.

Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines

The American Cancer Society suggests all adults who are at average risk for colon cancer have an initial colon cancer screening at 45 years of age. Some individuals are at higher risk for colon cancer due to family history, so talk with your GI doctor about whether you should begin screening earlier than this. It is also essential to be aware of the risk factors associated with colon cancer, including:

  • Age
  • Polyps (growths inside the colon and rectum) that may become cancerous
  • A high-fat diet
  • Family history of colon cancer or polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel diseases involving the colon
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol
  • Obesity

Don’t Delay in Scheduling Your Screening Colonoscopy

Although many surgery centers were closed during COVID, most have resumed regular hours. Surgery centers must follow rigorous safety standards and protocols. You can feel confident that your center will take the necessary precautions to sanitize the facility and all equipment.

We all have loved ones who need us in their lives – those who rely on us and can’t wait until we can all safely gather together again once the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided. You owe it to your family to prioritize your health.

Give those who love you peace of mind by scheduling a screening colonoscopy today.

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Prioritize Healthy Vision for the Sake of Your Family

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We all have loved ones who need us in their lives – those who rely on us and can’t wait until we can all safely gather together again once the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided. You owe it to your friends and family to care for your eye health so you can enjoy quality time together.

While it is important to avoid exposure to COVID-19, it is imperative to take care of your eyesight. Comprehensive eye exams are crucial for diagnosing eye diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. If you had to cancel an eye procedure or surgery due to COVID-19, you should call today to reschedule it. Delaying an eye procedure could put you at risk for vision impairment or vision loss.

Cataract Surgery Restores Clear Vision

One of the most common vision problems is cataracts, a condition that affects 20.5 million Americans. A cataract is the clouding of the eye lens, and it can cause significant vision loss if left untreated.

Cataracts are treatable with cataract surgery. During this simple, painless procedure, a surgeon removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear, customized lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). There are many types of IOLs, and if you have cataracts, you and your surgeon can decide which IOL is best for your vision needs.

Although COVID has caused many delays and cancellations of cataract surgery, now is the time to reschedule. Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in the United States, with a 98 percent success rate.

Most cataract surgeries are outpatient procedures, which means you can go home in a matter of hours. In a few days, you can resume your normal activities.

Comprehensive Eye Exams Detect and Prevent Disease

One of the best gifts you can give your family is getting a yearly eye exam. Through a comprehensive eye exam, your provider can evaluate your vision as well as your overall eye health.

COVID has caused many people to cancel their eye exams, but now is the time to reschedule.  According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 3.3 million Americans over 40 are legally blind, and 11 million Americans 12 years and older could improve their vision through proper correction.

A comprehensive eye exam can diagnose cataracts as well as glaucoma, a disease that affects the optic nerve. About three million Americans have glaucoma, but only half are aware they have the disease. Because the disease usually develops without pain or symptoms, it requires a comprehensive eye exam for diagnosis.

Your vision health is worth an hour of your time every year. You want to see the faces of your family and loved ones for years to come, so call to schedule a comprehensive eye exam or cataract surgery. You may not consider an eye appointment to be a priority during this already stressful time, but it’s the only way to keep your vision healthy. An eye exam isn’t only for you; it’s for your family.

Get Joint Pain Relief for the Sake of Your Family

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If you have persistent joint pain, getting treatment may not have been a priority for you during this stressful time; however, delaying treatment will only worsen joint problems. We all have loved ones who need us in their lives – those who rely on us and who can’t wait until we can all safely gather together again once the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided. Getting treatment for your joint pain can help ensure you’re healthy and available to begin reconnecting with your loved ones.

Chronic Joint Pain is a Common Problem for Americans

If you’re struggling with pain in your knee, hip, shoulder or hand, you’re not alone? Orthopedic issues are the most common reason people seek medical attention. In fact, one in every seven Americans has had an orthopedic problem.

Although millions of Americans suffer from chronic joint pain, nearly 84 percent of all orthopedic procedures are expected to be delayed, postponed or canceled due to COVID-19. Because of the pandemic, many people have had to delay procedures including:

  • Knee replacement
  • Hip replacement
  • Shoulder and rotator cuff surgery
  • ACL surgery
  • Hand surgery
  • Wrist surgery

Total Joint Replacement: A Safe, Successful Procedure

Total joint replacement, also called total joint arthroplasty (TJA), is among the most common and successful surgeries performed today. During this procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged or arthritic joint and replaces it with a metal, plastic or ceramic prosthetic joint.

Surgeons perform nearly one million total joint arthroplasty procedures in the United States annually, giving patients years of pain relief and restored mobility. According to a 2019 study published in The Lancet, 82 percent of knee replacements still function after 25 years.

Do Not Delay Your Orthopedic Procedure

Make your joint health a priority so you can enjoy reconnecting with your family. If your surgery center had to cancel your hip, knee or shoulder replacement or hand or wrist surgery, this could be the ideal time to reschedule your procedure. Your surgery center may have shortened hours, but you can still call the office to schedule a surgery, speak to a nurse or leave a message for your doctor.

You don’t have to continue to live with joint pain. Call an orthopedic specialist to schedule an appointment today and begin your journey toward relief!

Schedule a Colonoscopy to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

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Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but most cases are preventable with routine colonoscopies. According to AMSURG, a leading national healthcare group, more than 200,000 colonoscopies were missed in 2020. Therefore, it is essential to schedule a colon cancer screening for early detection and treatment.

March is Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Awareness Month, a time to learn how to prevent and detect colorectal cancer. Anyone can develop colon cancer, regardless of age, gender or fitness level.

Begin Colon Cancer Screenings at Age 45

Medical consensus is building for Americans 45 and older to receive routine screenings for CRC. The American Cancer Society lowered the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 in 2018. In 2020, the United States Preventive Services Task Force shared a draft recommendation to lower the screening age to 45.

Because of this new guidance, all individuals who are at average risk should begin routine screenings at age 45 and not delay essential screenings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When detected early, CRC can be easier to treat, and patients often have better outcomes. The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 150,000 people will be diagnosed with CRC in 2021. Although the rate of people diagnosed with CRC has dropped in recent years, incidence among young adults is increasing. According to AMSURG data, pre-cancerous polyps have been found in one out of every four patients who have undergone a colonoscopy since 2019.

Every Month Counts with Colon Cancer

“Every year, every month counts with CRC,” said Brenda Thompson Green, AMSURG employee. “Four years ago, I was diagnosed with colon cancer at the age of 46. Had I been encouraged to get screened a year earlier, there’s the potential that I could have had a much more positive outcome and not required such intense treatment. I am alive today because I listened to my body, sought the appropriate care and received a screening colonoscopy at the suggestion of my physician. Until the screening age is more broadly accepted, I cannot stress how important it is for people to know their family history, understand the symptoms and not delay care.”

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a comprehensive procedure in which physicians can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous. Colonoscopies are instrumental in helping people maintain their health and quality of life.

CRC does not disappear during a pandemic. In 2021, more than 200,000 patients missed their colonoscopies, and based on statistical expectations, approximately 900 of these people would have CRC.

It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of colon cancer: a persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool, rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, persistent abdominal discomfort like cramps, gas or pain, or a feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy at a GI Center

The best decision you can make this month is to educate yourself and your family about the importance of a quality colonoscopy. Our surgery centers and physicians are ready to serve you with compassionate, quality care. Call today to make an appointment for a colonoscopy. One simple procedure could save your life.

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Heartburn and Acid Reflux and GERD…Oh my! Symptoms, Diagnosing and Treatment

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Everyone endures stomach troubles at one time or another that leave you thinking – is it just a one-off issue, heartburn, or something worthy of bringing up with a gastrointestinal specialist?

When it comes to that “burning sensation in your chest” feeling after eating, acid reflux may be the culprit. But what does that mean, and can it be treated? We’re here to help by providing the lowdown on heartburn, acid reflux and GERD.

What is acid reflux?

Simply put, acid reflux happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus. When you swallow, the lower esophageal sphincter muscle relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach, and then it closes again. Sometimes, this muscle relaxes abnormally or weakens causing stomach acid to flow back into your esophagus and producing a burning sensation in your throat.

If left untreated, acid reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus.

What is GERD, and is it serious?

When your heartburn is repeatedly occurring – and therefore chronic – it is diagnosed as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). It also means it’s time to plan a visit to a gastroenterologist to check out what’s going on before it becomes something serious.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD?

Symptoms may include:

  • The taste of regurgitate food or a sour liquid in your throat
  • A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), which is caused by an inflamed esophagus
  • Regurgitating food or a sour liquid (acid reflux)
  • Chest pain or gas pains
  • Difficulty swallowing (also called dysphagia)
  • Dry cough
  • Hoarseness or a sore throat
  • Feeling of a lump in your throat

Diagnosing GERD

When symptoms persist to a point of continuous discomfort, it may be time to dig a bit deeper to see if GERD is the issue.

During a visit to diagnose GERD, a patient may receive the following tests:

  • Barium esophagram. This is an x-ray of your upper digestive system, which requires drinking a chalky liquid that coats the inside lining of your digestive tract. This allows us to see the shape and condition of your esophagus, stomach and upper intestine.
  • Upper endoscopy. By passing a flexible tube down your throat, this procedure allows us to examine the inside of your esophagus. The test is usually performed with sedation.
  • Esophageal pH (acid) test. This test uses a device to monitor the acid in your esophagus and identify when and how long stomach acid regurgitates into your esophagus.
  • Esophageal motility test. This test measures the movement and pressure in your esophagus.

Know your risks

Risk factors for acid reflux and GERD include obesity, a hiatal hernia, pregnancy, smoking, asthma, diabetes, overeating, and even connective tissue disorders such as scleroderma.

Ways to avoid acid reflux/GERD:

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Avoid tight-fitting clothes that may bother the stomach
  • Avoid food and drinks that trigger heartburn such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, mint, garlic, onion and caffeine
  • Beware of portion sizes – larger and higher-fat meals tend to stay in the stomach longer
  • Keep a journal of foods and symptoms to look for patterns
  • Don’t lie down after eating
  • Elevate your head when lying down
  • Avoid smoking

Treatment

While some people experience acid reflux and GERD relief by making lifestyle changes or by taking over-the-counter medications, others may need further investigation with endoscopy.

When medications aren’t cutting it, additional treatments may include:

  • Nissen fundoplication: Surgery to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter
  • Surgery to create a barrier preventing the backup of stomach acid
  • Linx: Surgery to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter

Visit a gastrointestinal doctor today

Visit Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, to receive a true diagnosis of what’s causing your chest pain so we can help you treat it before long-term damage occurs. Schedule your appointment today!

Blindness and Vision Loss Predicted to Double in 30 Years

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According to a new pre-print study accepted by The Lancet, rates of global blindness and vision impairment continue to increase. By the year 2050, the number may reach 900 million people.

Vision loss is a global problem. According to recent research led by Rupert Bourne, Professor of Ophthalmology at Anglia Ruskin University:

  • 8 million people have a mild vision impairment
  • 1 million people have a major vision impairment
  • 3 million people are blind

Bourne and his team predict blindness and vision impairment will double in the next 30 years unless experts can take steps to address the issue.

“It is encouraging that age-adjusted prevalence of blindness has reduced over the past three decades, yet due to population growth, progress is not keeping pace with needs,” said Bourne. “We face enormous challenges in avoiding vision impairment as the global population grows and ages” (Medical Xpress).

Cataracts are Treatable with Cataract Surgery

One of the most common types of eye diseases is cataracts, the leading cause of degenerative vision loss among people older than 55. Some common symptoms of cataracts include:

  • Clouded or blurry vision
  • Double vision
  • Fading of colors
  • Appearance of halos
  • Difficulty with night vision
  • Sensitivity to light and glare

Cataract-related vision loss can be reversed through cataract surgery, a safe and simple procedure. Approximately three million Americans undergo cataract surgery annually, with a success rate of 98 percent or higher (American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery). This means 95 percent of patients who select a standard artificial lens (called an intraocular lens or IOL) during cataract surgery experience completely restored vision.

Call Your Ophthalmologist

Three out of four cases of disease-related vision loss can be avoided through prevention and treatment. Many conditions can be treated with simple outpatient procedures. You can preserve your vision and prevent vision impairment by scheduling an annual comprehensive eye exam. Your ophthalmologist will provide you with a full evaluation of your eye health and discuss any necessary treatment options.