by ahaggard
Learn more about how some patients are able to have robot-assisted knee replacement surgery without requiring an overnight stay as a New Tripoli patient shares his experience.
Click here to watch our orthopedic surgeons Dr. Hawk and Dr. Pollice as they’re interviewed by reporter Brittany Sweeney.
by ahaggard
Most individuals have heard of the protein known as gluten. These days, it’s common to know some people that follow a gluten-free lifestyle even if you’re not following one in your own life. Having a gluten intolerance, however, could be a sign of a more concerning issue – a health condition known as celiac disease. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, it’s our goal to help individuals recognize the symptoms and signs of celiac disease and learn how to best live with this health problem. There’s no better month to learn about celiac disease signs, symptoms, causes, and treatments than May, recognized as Celiac Disease Awareness Month. Read on to find out additional details about celiac disease from our New Orleans, LA gastroenterology team.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that results in damage to the small bowel when gluten is consumed. In the presence of this hereditary disease, the body will create an immune reaction following the consumption of gluten that can injure the villi, or the thin fingerlike fringe lining of the small intestine. This prohibits the body from absorbing nutrients properly.
At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we want to supply patients with helpful information since approximately 1 out of 100 people suffers from celiac disease. Patients who have celiac disease have a higher risk of developing atherosclerotic heart disease (coronary artery disease) and are four times more likely to get cancer of the small intestine.
An estimated 2.5 million individuals in the United States are undiagnosed with celiac disease. It’s vital to recognize the symptoms of this condition, as when left untreated, it can result in concerning chronic health issues.
Common symptoms and signs of celiac disease are:
The GI doctors at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates carry out screenings for the disease and help those with celiac disease in New Orleans, LA control this condition. To test a patient for celiac disease, our experts will start by obtaining an in-depth family and health history. Given that individuals having an immediate family member with celiac disease possess a 10% chance of being affected by the disease, it is essential to analyze family history first. Following this, our doctors will evaluate symptoms and perform a physical exam. Our physicians may look at the following factors when conducting this exam:
We might also recommend one or more celiac disease tests, which could include blood work, biopsies of a skin rash or the small bowel, DNA testing, and more. Results of these tests may allow for a more in-depth understanding of any symptoms and the possible autoimmune disorders associated with celiac disease.
How is celiac disease treated?
Although celiac disease can lead to serious consequences if left untreated, it can be rather easy to manage. Our doctors will usually suggest a celiac disease treatment of a gluten-free diet, which includes avoiding specific grains, such as barley, wheat, and rye. There is a considerable body of information about gluten-free diets on the Web these days; however, our gastrointestinal specialists advise meeting with a nutritional expert who can help guide this transition, Gluten is frequently found in an array of household items, some of which may seem surprising. A few common things that might have gluten are:
Get care for celiac disease in New Orleans, LA
Celiac disease really includes far more than having an intolerance to gluten. The condition attacks the small bowel and can lead to ongoing damage in the absence of treatment. If you or a member of your family faces any symptoms of celiac disease or you have a parent or sibling with the condition, please schedule a visit at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to test for celiac disease. To find out more about GI issues or to receive help for celiac disease in New Orleans, LA, get in touch with our GI practice right away.
by ahaggard
A new study found that patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who had a colonoscopy every one to three years were less likely to be diagnosed with advanced colon cancer.
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Although anyone can develop colon cancer, certain risk factors and conditions can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. One condition that can increase the risk of colon cancer is IBD, a general term that describes chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
There are two types of IBD:
Colon inflammation can cause a constant turnover of cells in the lining of the intestine, which increases the likelihood of cell irregularities that can result in cancer.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology evaluated how varying colonoscopy intervals affected colon cancer outcomes in patients with IBD. The outcomes evaluated included the following:
The study showed that “Colonoscopy within three years prior to CRC [colorectal cancer] diagnosis compared with no colonoscopy was less likely to be diagnosed with late tumor stage,” said Hyun-seok Kim, MD, MPH, of Baylor College of Medicine. “Colonoscopy within one year was associated with lower all-cause mortality than no colonoscopy. Our findings support the use of surveillance colonoscopy to improve CRC outcomes in IBD patients” (Healio).
If you have IBD, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer:
Colon cancer is highly treatable when doctors find it early. Colonoscopy is the gold standard of colon cancer screening because it is the only test that allows a doctor to detect and remove pre-cancerous polyps in the same procedure. It is the only test that is appropriate for individuals who have a family history of colon cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends that all adults at average risk for colon cancer begin screening at 45. Don’t delay in scheduling your colonoscopy. This test is a life-saving procedure, so call your gastroenterologist today and make an appointment for a screening.
by ahaggard
About 58.5 million U.S. adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By 2040, the CDC reports that the number is expected to increase to 78 million.
During May, which is National Arthritis Awareness Month, the focus is on this chronic joint disease that causes pain, disability and loss of function.
Osteoarthritis occurs most frequently in the hands, hips and knees. Without treatment, this disease may restrict your participation in sports and daily activities with friends and family and cause long-term damage to your joints.
A new analysis reveals that in recent decades, osteoarthritis has remained a major public health concern worldwide.
Based on global data from 1990 to 2019, this analysis was published in Arthritis & Rheumatology, an official journal of the American College of Rheumatology.
The analysis data were collected as part of the Global Burden of Disease study by a consortium of more than 7,000 researchers in more than 156 countries and territories.
“Investigators found that globally, prevalent cases (of osteoarthritis) increased by 113.25 percent from 247.51 million in 1990 to 527.81 million in 2019,” according to the analysis.
“The disease burden of osteoarthritis is formidable,” co–senior author Jianhao Lin, MD, of Peking University People’s Hospital, in China, told Medical Xpress. “Due to population expansion, aging, and the epidemic of obesity, one would expect such a burden would increase in the near future.”
The team also assessed the rates that the population would have if it had a standard age structure or age-standardized prevalence rates (ASRs).
The study showed the ASRs of osteoarthritis increased for knee, hip and other joints but decreased for hands.
The data revealed a higher prevalence of osteoarthritis was found in countries with higher development status. Osteoarthritis was higher in females than in males and increased with age, according to the study.
The analysis also showed osteoarthritis of the hip had the highest estimated annual percentage increases in most regions. And according to the study, osteoarthritis of the knee contributed the most to the overall burden.
“Primary and secondary prevention, including refraining from overweight or obesity, preventing knee injury and avoiding heavy repeated joint-loading activities are effective measures in alleviating the burden,” Lin told Medical Xpress. “In addition, exercise therapy could delay functional loss and should be recommended as core treatment for knee osteoarthritis.”
For individuals with osteoarthritis, the CDC recommends the following activities and exercises to help maintain range of motion:
Although exercises and activities can help relieve pain and stiffness, they may not be enough to help with your osteoarthritis. If you are experiencing joint pain, don’t delay your care. Call your orthopedist and make an appointment to help you manage your pain by creating a customized treatment plan.
by ahaggard
Recent research suggests increased time on digital devices has adversely affected children’s eye health and general well-being.
According to a recent paper published in the Journal of School Health, global research studies conducted during the pandemic discovered children and teens significantly increased their screen time. This is not surprising, as the COVID-19 pandemic caused millions of children to adjust to remote learning and depend on digital devices for their education.
Recreational screen time also increased during the pandemic. A study in JAMA Pediatrics found 12- to 13-year-old children in the United States increased their non-scholastic screen time from 3.8 hours per day to 7.7 hours a day.
Staring at screens can lead to many types of eye problems. For example, too much time on electronic devices puts children at risk for digital eye strain, characterized by itchy, red, watery eyes that can feel irritated and uncomfortable. Staring at screens can also increase the likelihood of dry eye, uncorrected refractive errors and unstable binocular vision.
Using digital devices can also have long-term health consequences. Because it is a passive activity, excessive screen time can cause overeating and even obesity. Studies also show depression and anxiety increase with more screen time, and students’ coping skills decrease. It can also result in physical discomforts like shoulder, neck and back pain.
Digital devices are a helpful tool when used in moderation. Remote learning provided essential education to millions of students during the pandemic, and it continues to be an important option for students.
“Schools can make sure time spent on digital devices is maximized for learning and less digital time is encouraged for other activities,” said lead author Professor Shahina Pardhan, director of the Vision and Eye Research Institute at Anglia Ruskin University. “Governments should work with schools to help shape home-based learning guidelines that encourage creative learning away from devices, including promoting other types of activities and frequent screen breaks” (Medical Xpress).
As parents become more aware of how many hours their children spend on digital devices at school, they can help their children establish screen time limits at home. Here are some helpful guidelines for creating healthy boundaries for your family’s digital device usage:
When was the last time you scheduled a comprehensive eye exam with dilation for your family members? Annual eye exams provide more than just a check-up on your eyesight. They offer a window into your overall health. Call today to make an appointment for a complete eye examination so you can enjoy clear vision for years to come.
by ahaggard
Gastroenterology is a specialized type of medicine devoted to the investigation, identification, and treatment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, gallbladder, liver, and pancreas are all part of the gastrointestinal tract. Any disturbance in this essential system can have a damaging impact on an individual’s overall wellness and should be evaluated by a gastroenterology expert. Professionals in this field are called gastroenterologists. Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is a leading chief doctor-led system of gastroenterologists (GI specialists) in Louisiana, and we are committed to offering education and remedies that let our clients achieve their ideal intestinal health. You can find a local gastroenterologist in New Orleans, LA by contacting our staff. What does a GI doctor achieve, and when should you find one? Keep reading to find out.
After graduating from medical school, some individuals continue their studies and finish approximately 5 – 6 years of specialty training in the area of gastroenterology. These GI specialists have an extreme understanding of what healthy digestion and stool elimination look like, in addition to standard ailments and disturbances that can interfere with gastrointestinal operation. A GI doctor receives thorough instruction on how to execute endoscopic exams, such as upper endoscopy and colonoscopies, which can all be performed to identify and treat different conditions of the GI system.
A gastroenterologist could handle an extensive assortment of digestive afflictions and conditions. A few of the most widely treated diseases include:
In addition to handling the above conditions, GI doctors commonly carry out regular colonoscopies to recognize, address, and prevent colon cancer, which is one of the top reasons for cancer fatalities in the country. You can meet a colonoscopy doctor nearby through Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. A doctor in our network is available in New Orleans, LA.
You might talk to a GI specialist when you’re suffering any indicators or symptoms of GI ailments, such as:
Even if you do not exhibit all of the listed signs, we advise you to visit a GI physician for standard colonoscopies. You should start regular colorectal cancer tests at around 45 years old and then once every decade if you are of low risk and your findings are negative. If you are at elevated danger, like having a family history of colon cancer or serious bowel disease, then it is typically recommended you receive exams earlier and more often. You can find a GI physician nearby by talking to Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.
If you or a loved one is experiencing disturbing intestinal indicators, you can believe in the GI physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to deliver skilled, patient-centric treatments. Our kind GI physicians are among the chief professionals in the industry, and our goal is to reach the utmost clinical principles. Call our facility in New Orleans, LA to discover more.
by ahaggard
You’ve been hearing about it more and more, and it’s true: Colon cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer deaths — but it can be prevented! Early detection is key. For everyone. Because an increasing number of people younger than 40 are being diagnosed with colon cancer … which we can all work to change.
Keeping yourself colon-cancer free means educating yourself about your risk factors, and taking care of your colon by getting a colonoscopy (at age 45, or sooner if you have risk factors).
Cancer can develop without symptoms that you notice, but when you know your risk factors, you can be more aware of the potential for it to develop — and you can help prevent colon cancer or detect it in its earliest stages in order to increase your survival rate.
Know your family history: Has anyone in your direct bloodline (including parents, siblings, or children) been diagnosed with colon cancer? It’s also important to know if any of them had any precancerous polyps that were detected, or any hereditary syndromes that may impact your chances for developing cancer.
Beyond that, it’s vital to monitor your own personal history. If you have had any precancerous polyps detected in a prior colonoscopy, no matter how long ago, it’s imperative to continue monitoring things and having routine colonoscopies. Additionally, if you have other health conditions, you may be at increased risk.
While we are still learning more and more every day, some studies indicate that there may be a chance that what you eat can impact your risk for colon cancer.
In general, we’d love for everyone to eat a balanced, healthy diet full of fresh foods — for a plethora of reasons — and if it helps lower your risk for colon cancer, we’re all for it.
You know it’s something you have to do, but you put it off. But not getting your colonoscopy when you should puts you at greater risk of developing colon cancer in its later stages, which makes it less treatable. In fact, colon cancer mortality doubles if you skip your colonoscopy.
You know your risk factors, and you’re discussing them with your doctor. The number one way for you to prevent colon cancer is to have a colonoscopy — by age 45, or sooner if you have those risk factors.
A colonoscopy isn’t just about detecting if you already have colon cancer: A colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer by actually looking into your digestive tract to see if there are any polyps hanging around. Polyps usually have no symptoms, so we need to be able to have a camera go through to see. And those polyps can be precancerous — so by locating and removing them, we’re able to prevent colon cancer.
For anyone with colon cancer risk factors including a personal history of colon polyps or a family history of colon cancer, a screening colonoscopy, not a stool test, is the right test for you.
In addition, you want to follow tips for a healthy colon to reduce the chances of those polyps even developing in the first place.
Again, what you eat can also play a part: Diet can help prevent colon cancer. Taking care of your health now is benefitting you in the long run — so go ahead and schedule your colonoscopy today!
We’re seeing patients for all your intestinal concerns and scheduling colonoscopies — even our Colonoscopy Now — so contact us today to set up your appointment!
by ahaggard
On a recent segment of Public Health Matters, Gastroenterologist Dr. Peter Park and Megan Casem, nurse case manager at the Harford County Cancer Prevention Program, discuss colorectal cancer and the importance of getting a colonoscopy screening along with what the Harford County Health Department is doing to help in this area.
Watch the video by clicking the link here.
by ahaggard
To help digest and properly utilize the food you consume, your body has a highly functional system known as the gastrointestinal or GI tract. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we concentrate on the maintenance and wellness of this vital body system. Our aim is to help you become more in tune with your digestive health, and our experts address a broad array of gastrointestinal conditions and diseases. If you’re in need of a GI specialist in New Orleans, LA, our team can connect you with digestive health experts in your area. We invite you to read on to discover more about the digestive system and how it functions.
Your digestive tract is made up of a sequence of connected organs that transport and break down the food items you eat. As a result of mechanical and chemical digestive factors, these bodily organs break down food into its most fundamental composition so your body is able to absorb the nutrients it relies on and get rid of the waste. The digestive system consists of hollow organs, like the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, and large bowel, that store and propel food through the body. Additionally grouped in the digestive system are the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. These organs hold and generate digestive enzymes and juices, along with conducting other functions.
The various portions of the digestive tract work collectively to conduct the critical function of digesting food. GI organs in the order of digestive function are:
A doctor who detects, treats, and helps manage diseases of the intestinal system is referred to as a gastroenterologist or GI physician. You or a loved one can connect with a GI doctor in New Orleans, LA through Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, a physician-led team of skilled specialists.
The components that make up your gastrointestinal system function to help the body process and absorb important nourishment from the food you eat. These nutrients are then used to provide you with necessary energy, aid in growth and development, and repair cells throughout the body. The processed food left over after digestion is then eliminated from the body as waste. Should you be impacted by digestive conditions, your ability to digest food and get rid of waste properly may be impeded, which can greatly influence your general health and wellness.
Should you notice worrisome symptoms related to your GI health, like chronic heartburn, diarrhea or constipation, blood in your stool, or abdominal discomfort, visiting a gastroenterologist at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates may be in order. Our physicians in New Orleans, LA strive to place the needs of our patients first, incorporating advanced treatments and technologies to help preserve gastrointestinal health and wellness. If you experience GI symptoms, need a colorectal cancer screening, or wish to find out more on how to preserve your intestinal health, contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to set up a consultation visit.
by ahaggard
Countless people are affected by persistent gastrointestinal (GI) distress and bowel concerns. What they might not be aware of is that this could be a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. This ailment impacts 10 – 15% of people and does not have a cure. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA, we aim to bring attention to this disorder throughout the month of April, which is IBS Awareness Month. Just because there is no long-term remedy, it doesn’t mean you have to live every day in discomfort.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a persistent digestive condition that influences GI function and affects the large and small intestines. In short, the brain and gastrointestinal tract have problems working together, and it causes the digestive system to become sensitive and the colon muscle to contract more than usual.
These challenges can result in symptoms, such as bloating, stomach pain, cramping, irregularity, diarrhea, and more. If you have this disorder, you most likely won’t experience IBS symptoms all the time. In reality, some days may be entirely normal and at other times, symptoms might be worse — it depends on the form of IBS you suffer from. The types of IBS are:
Our IBS specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates frequently provide IBS treatment to New Orleans, LA citizens. We can determine what kind of irritable bowel syndrome you have and help you find relief.
If you’re noticing signs or symptoms of IBS, it may be smart to get the help of a gastroenterologist near you. Our team can help you determine if your symptoms are from irritable bowel syndrome or something else. Prior to a physical exam, we’ll ask a few questions to help us assess your symptoms and wellness history. In some cases, we may ask you to undergo a blood or stool sample test to rule out any conditions that could be misidentified as irritable bowel syndrome. Typical symptoms of IBS include:
Once we obtain sufficient proof that you suffer from IBS, our GI specialists in New Orleans, LA can discuss the ideal irritable bowel syndrome treatment to meet your needs.
There is no universal remedy for irritable bowel syndrome, so it could take some trial and error to identify an IBS treatment that benefits you. Despite that, many adults find that they can make some eating and physical activity adjustments and get great results. Common adjustments that generally have an impact on IBS symptoms include:
It’s also a good idea to maintain a food journal. This can allow you to discover which foods activate irritable bowel syndrome issues so you can work on avoiding those items in the future. Additionally, if you take any medications, we might look to see if any adjustments can be made to the dosage or type.
If you have symptoms from irritable bowel syndrome, like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence, it can be hard to schedule outings, as this condition can interrupt even the most special events. We propose coming to see our GI physicians in New Orleans, LA without delay so we can help you diagnose and treat your irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. While there is no permanent solution, it is possible to manage your symptoms so you can do what you love. For further information on irritable bowel syndrome or IBS treatments, please get in touch with Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates as soon as possible.