Routine Colon Cancer Screenings Are Essential, Especially for African American Individuals

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If you’ve been avoiding a colonoscopy, don’t put it off any longer. Colonoscopy is much faster, safer, and more affordable than you might think. It’s essential to prioritize your health and schedule this life-saving procedure. One of the best decisions you can make for yourself and your family is to schedule a colon cancer screening today.

How Common is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a growth that begins in the colon, also known as the large intestine. Most colon cancers start as a polyp, a tiny growth that forms on the colon’s inner lining.

This year alone, there will be an estimated 104,270 new cases of colon cancer and 45,230 new cases of rectal cancer in the United States. Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the country, and it disproportionately affects African Americans. The good news is that regular screenings can detect cancer in the early stages – and can even prevent the disease.

African Americans and Colon Cancer Risk

African Americans have a higher incidence of colon cancer than other racial and ethnic groups in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, African American individuals are 20 percent more likely to develop colon cancer and 40 percent more likely to die from the disease. Studies also show African Americans are at higher risk of developing polyps on the right side of the colon, which are often more challenging to detect.

There’s Always Enough Time for Colon Health

Studies show lack of time is one of the main reasons African Americans cite for not scheduling a colonoscopy. Many people assume they are healthy if they do not have any symptoms of illness, but colon cancer rarely displays symptoms in the early stages. By the time patients experience warning signs like altered bowel habits, rectal bleeding or abdominal pain, cancer could be in an advanced stage.

Putting off a screening may increase your risk for colon cancer. Young-onset colon cancer is on the rise, especially in the Black community. People under 50 are also more likely to develop aggressive tumors.

Colonoscopies Can Be Pain-Free

Fear of discomfort is another reason African Americans who were surveyed reported for avoiding colonoscopy. However, patients are sedated during the procedure to avoid discomfort. Among all colon cancer screening methods, colonoscopy is the most effective test for detecting and preventing cancer because it allows the doctor to remove polyps before they become cancerous.

Colonoscopies Can Be Affordable

Another concern many patients have reported is the cost of colon cancer screening. Due to the Affordable Care Act, most screening colonoscopies are free and don’t include a deductible or out-of-pocket payment. Talk with your doctor’s office about colonoscopy coverage since there may be requirements including age and prior history of polyps.

 Call a Gastroenterologist

No one looks forward to colon cancer screenings, but they are an essential part of preventive 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.

Call a GI center and make an appointment for a colon cancer screening.  A preventive test today can prevent expensive medical bills in the future.

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African Americans Can Reduce Their Risk for Eye Disease

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Eye disease does not affect all races equally. African Americans are more likely to develop certain eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy yet are less likely to receive necessary eye surgery.

Disparities in Cataract Treatment

Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye. Most people over the age of 40 have at least one developing cataract, which will continue to worsen unless treated with cataract surgery. Common symptoms of cataracts include:

  • Blurred, clouded or dimmed vision
  • Sensitivity to light and glare
  • Difficulty seeing at night and driving at night
  • Double vision
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Colors appear faded or yellow

Cataracts are treatable with cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is the most common procedure performed on Medicare beneficiaries, and it has a success rate of over 90 percent. However, studies show African Americans are less likely than Caucasian Americans to have cataracts removed.

African Americans Are at Higher Risk for Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an optic nerve disease that can cause permanent eye damage. Next to cataracts, primary open-angle glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness among African Americans and individuals of African descent. In addition, in African Americans, glaucoma develops earlier and faster, and it is six times more likely to cause blindness (Glaucoma Research Foundation).

Glaucoma has been referred to as is the “sneak thief of sight” because it can develop without pain or symptoms. Because there is no cure for glaucoma, the only way to preserve vision in those with the disease is to diagnose and treat glaucoma in the early stages.

Diabetic Retinopathy Incidence Is Increasing

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease that can develop in individuals with diabetes, causing blood vessel damage, vision loss and even blindness. The longer an individual has diabetes, the more likely they are to develop diabetic retinopathy.

African Americans are 1.7 times more likely to develop diabetes than Caucasians. More than 825,000 African Americans have diabetic retinopathy, and experts predict the numbers will increase to 1.2 million by 2030.

Importance of Comprehensive Eye Exams

Many eye diseases do not show symptoms in the early stages, but they can cause long-term vision loss or even blindness if they go undetected. However, through comprehensive eye exams with dilation, providers can diagnose eye diseases early when they are still easy to treat.

If it has been over a year since your last comprehensive eye exam, it is time to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. In less than one hour, your eye doctor can assess your vision, test for eye diseases and provide you with helpful information to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.

Facts to Know about FibroScan®

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FibroScan, also referred to as transient elastography, is a nonsurgical technique used by physicians to investigate the health of the liver and determine concerns that might affect the overall function of this organ. Performed using ultrasound-based imaging, this innovative diagnostic test assesses the volume of fat tissue within the liver to identify a fatty liver condition). This liver test also permits doctors to measure the extent of stiffness in the liver. An increased level of stiffness can point to the existence of fibrotic scarring, liver inflammation, or further concerns. In the event that a fatty change (hepatic steatosis) or fibrosis is suspected, the skilled specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA may carry out a FibroScan analysis to identify and interpret the scope of the disease.

When is a FibroScan test recommended?

Gastroenterologists are specialists who typically address conditions that impact the liver and might advise a FibroScan analysis for individuals with symptoms of early to advanced liver disease. This screening may be recommended for those who show one or more indications of liver disease or injury, such as:

  • Severe liver fibrotic scarring (cirrhosis)
  • Insulin resistance syndrome
  • Alcohol-related liver damage
  • Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
  • Various degrees of liver inflammation

How FibroScan testing is performed

FibroScan testing is done at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA and could be suggested as an alternative to a liver biopsy. It is ordinarily conducted alongside other types of imaging procedures or lab tests to comprehensively assess a liver condition. Over the course of the assessment, patients are asked to lie flat on an exam table. The sonographer then passes the FibroScan imaging handpiece over the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, right underneath the ribs. Ultrasound energy is administered directly into the liver, determining the velocity at which sound frequencies advance through the organ. FibroScan tests are typically comfortable and usually require about 15 minutes or less to conduct.

What do FibroScan results mean?

When FibroScan testing is done, the scores are forwarded to the provider who ordered the screening. The test produces a number value that indicates the measurement of fat buildup inside the liver, also referred to as a CAP (controlled attenuation parameter) score, and a fibrosis score.

-The FibroScan CAP score is evaluated in dB/m and is used to establish the degree of steatosis (fatty change) within an individual’s liver. An elevated CAP score demonstrates a higher degree of steatosis and a more advanced stage of a fatty liver condition.

-The fibrosis outcome yields details on the level of scarring (fibrosis) in the liver, varying from zero to moderate or a later stage of scarring (cirrhosis).

A follow-up appointment with the gastrointestinal (GI) doctor who ordered the test will be arranged to assess and discuss the procedure outcomes. Recommendations for medical care or ways to incorporate healthier habits might then be offered as per the unique needs of the patient. Further FibroScan tests can be conducted on a regular basis to check liver health or to find out whether a liver condition has advanced.

Learn more about FibroScan tests in New Orleans, LA

As one of the larger organs in the human body, the liver performs a key role in your general health. Hepatic steatosis and fibrotic scar tissue could alter numerous facets of your general wellness, from prompting fatigue and abdominal swelling to increasing the chance of liver cancer and liver failure. The expert team at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA offers nonsurgical transient elastography procedures to discern the existence of fat in the liver or liver fibrosis. If you think you may have a liver condition, please contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates today to schedule a FibroScan consultation with one of our experienced GI specialists.

8 Ways to Naturally Improve Your Digestive Track

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Occasional digestive problems can be common and have simple causes from poor diet to stress. Most of the time, tummy troubles will dissipate on their own, but if they don’t, it may be time to reflect on what your body needs and how you can continue to keep your GI tract running smoothly.

Check out the list that follows to discover several methods for naturally improving your digestive track before medication or an appointment with our Board-Certified Gastroenterologists is necessary.

Drink more fluids.

Hydration  is important to the body for many reasons. One major one is that water allows fiber to absorb enough to pass through the digestive system easily.

If you’re looking for a water alternative, try fruit-infused beverages or mint tea, which can be helpful for tummy aches.

Eat fiber-rich foods.

Simply put, fiber helps improve digestion by regulating bowel movements. Good sources of fiber include whole grains, beans, and fruits and veggies. Women should try to eat at least 21 to 25 grams of fiber a day, while men should aim for 30 to 38 grams a day.

Avoid processed foods.

Foods that are highly processed, spicy, fried, and acidic, can cause issues with digestion. Limit these foods to see if symptoms improve.

 Use a wellness journal.

Track the foods you eat at meal times, how much you sleep, and when you move your body to see if there are any patterns resulting in tummy troubles.

Slow down at mealtimes.

Eating slower can help the body digest a meal better. Take time to enjoy your meal, and make sure to sip small doses of water in between bites.

Move your body.

A daily strenuous workout isn’t needed; even a 20-minute walk can make a difference when it comes to digesting your food. Moving after a meal and being upright allows gravity to help move food through the digestive system easier.

Ditch the vices.

Smoking and alcohol are two major culprits when it comes to stomach issues as they can interfere with the functioning of your digestive system and lead to problems like stomach ulcers and heartburn. Kick those bad habits to the curb!

Reduce stress.

We get it – this one is easier said than done, but stress and anxiety can cause your digestive system to go into overdrive. When possible, take the time to practice breathing, yoga, or journaling to escape the stressors of everyday life.

If this list feels overwhelming to tackle, try picking a few things and sticking with them to see if your digestion issues improve.

It’s also important to note that medications, underlying medical issues, and food intolerances can also cause digestive discomfort. If stomach issues persist, it’s time to give us a call to see what is going on.

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!

5 Creative Ways to Increase Water Intake for Good Digestive Health

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Throughout the course of the day, we lose water simple by sweating, breathing, and digesting. It’s crucial to replace the water we lose to prevent dehydration and keep the GI tract running smoothly. Dehydration can cause bloating due to electrolyte imbalances and can halt digestion and cause constipation. Not fun!

With summer temperatures rising, it’s more important than ever to stay hydrated throughout the day.

How much water should we drink?

There are many factors that affect daily water requirements such as metabolism, physical activity, medications, and climate. Men usually need more water than women. Additionally, pregnant or nursing mothers will also need more water.

The Mayo Clinic’s water guidelines suggest the following for healthy adults living in a temperate climate:

  • About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men
  • About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women

While that seems like a lot, there are plenty of creative ways to increase water intake.

Here are 5 creative ways to increase water intake for good digestive health:

  1. Add flavor. Whether it’s a flavor packet, or testing different combinations using fruits, water doesn’t have to taste boring. Start with simple ingredients such as lemon, lime, honey or strawberries. Eventually, infuse several fruits and herbs at once for more exciting combinations.
  2. Consume hydrating foods. Around 20 percent of our daily fluid intake comes from food, so load up on hydrating items. Some hydrating foods include watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, cantaloupe, celery, bell peppers, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli and cauliflower.
  3. Consider other liquids. Supplement water with diluted fruit and vegetable juices, clear soups and herbal teas.
  4. Set reminders in your phone. Make a goal each day for how much you’d like to drink. Then, set a reminder in your phone to ensure you reach your goals and are staying hydrated throughout the day. There are even apps that remind you to hydrate!
  5. Bring a reusable bottle of water everywhere you go. Having easy access to water is key for making your daily goal.

When is the best time to drink water?

When you wake, your body is dehydrated, so start the day by drinking a cup immediately upon waking up. Then incorporate water consumption throughout your entire day.

Be sure to sip water at mealtimes as well as that will aid digestion. Water and other liquids break down food so your body can absorb the nutrients.

Our team of doctors at Gastrointestinal Specialists P.C., in Troy, Michigan has the knowledge and experience finding and treating diseases in the gastrointestinal tract to ease your stomach issues. And we’re committed to making your experience at our facility as comfortable and convenient as possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Why are Hispanics Less Likely to Screen for Colon Cancer?

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Colon cancer screening rates are significantly lower among Hispanic Americans over 50, and Hispanic Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer in advanced stages.

What Is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a growth that begins in the colon, also known as the large intestine. Most colon cancers start as a polyp, a tiny growth that forms in the colon’s inner lining. Colon cancer often has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time warning signs occur, the cancer may be at an advanced stage.

Barriers to Colon Cancer Screening in Hispanic Populations

Studies show Hispanic Americans are less likely to get screened for colon cancer than Caucasians or African Americans. According to the National Colon Cancer Roundtable, one in two Hispanic adults between 50 and 75 years of age are not getting tested as recommended. Because of lower screening rates, colon cancer causes about 11 percent of cancer deaths among Hispanic males and nine percent among Hispanic females.

There are many possible obstacles to colon cancer screening in Hispanic populations:

  1. Language barriers—Research shows language is a barrier to colon cancer screening. Many websites, including the American Gastroenterological Association, provide colonoscopy resources in Spanish.
  2. Fewer doctor visits—Studies show Hispanic Americans are less likely to go to the doctor in the absence of sickness or symptoms.
  3. Reluctance about screening procedures—Talking about colonoscopies and stool samples can feel embarrassing for many people.

Importance of Quality Colon Cancer Screening

Even though colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, most cases are preventable with proper screening. The American Cancer Society suggests that all adults at average risk for colon cancer begin screening at age 45. There are two basic screening methods:

  1. Colonoscopy—A colonoscopy is the most effective screening test to prevent and detect colon cancer. This screening uses a narrow, lighted tube with a camera to view the colon and rectum. You will be asleep during the procedure. Your doctor can remove colon polyps during the exam, and this can help prevent you from getting colon cancer. If your test result is normal, you will not need another colonoscopy for ten years.
  2. Stool test—You can perform a stool test, such as the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), at home. A stool test may detect small amounts of blood that you cannot see. Blood in the stool can sometimes indicate colon cancer. You can receive a kit that allows you to collect a small amount of stool and send it to a lab to test for hidden blood. If your test is positive, you will then need to have a colonoscopy.

Common Myths About Colon Cancer and Colonoscopies

There are many misunderstandings and beliefs surrounding colon cancer, colon cancer screening and colonoscopy. Often, these myths prevent people from getting screened. Here are some common misconceptions about the disease and screening, along with facts about colon cancer and colonoscopy.

Myth

Truth
“Colon cancer is a man’s disease.” Colon cancer affects both genders. Men and women are both at risk for developing colon cancer.
“Colonoscopies take too much time. I will miss work, and I can’t afford that.” You will only need to miss one day of work for a colonoscopy. There are also other screening options that do not require you to miss work.
“I can’t afford a colonoscopy.” There are many ways to get a low-cost or free colonoscopy. Insurance covers colonoscopy screenings.
“Colonoscopies are not safe.” The risk of injury during a colonoscopy is low. Not getting screened at all puts you at high risk for a deadly disease.
“Doctors just want money. They don’t care about my health.” GI physicians work to save lives through colonoscopies. They want you to feel comfortable and confident about your upcoming procedure, so write down your questions and concerns and discuss them with your provider.
“I can’t get a colonoscopy because it’s too embarrassing.” GI physicians and their teams perform colonoscopies on patients all the time, so there’s no need to be embarrassed! Besides, having a colonoscopy is the best way to prevent colon cancer. If you get a clean bill of health, you may not have to repeat the test for another 10 years.
“I don’t understand the procedure. I don’t feel like I’m in control.” Ask your doctor for information like pamphlets and websites that can help you be more informed.

 

For the sake of your health and your family, call today to make an appointment with your gastroenterologist. Colonoscopies save lives, so schedule yours today.

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Knee Pain Got You Down? Check Your Text Messages

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According to the CDC, over 54 million adults in the United States have arthritis, and the number may approach 78 million in 2040. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which affects over 32 million Americans.

A new study shows patients who received text messages encouraging them to exercise had better outcomes related to knee osteoarthritis.

Accountability Helps Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis

There are many reasons people don’t exercise, says Rachel Nelligan, a PhD candidate and physiotherapist at the Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine at the University of Melbourne in Australia. Exercise can be painful, and it is challenging to find quality treatment and remain motivated.

Nelligan conducted a randomized clinical trial on 180 patients with knee osteoarthritis to determine how motivation affects exercise and pain relief.

All participants had access to a free website that gave information about arthritis and emphasized the importance of being physically active. Half of the patients received a prescription for a 24-week exercise program, supplemented by automated text messages that encouraged them to keep exercising. The other half of the patients did not receive the same resources.

Not surprisingly, the patients who were in the intervention group showed improved mobility and decreased knee pain.

“People who had used the intervention group website and text message support told us the clear exercise instructions provided on the website enabled them to master the exercises without needing health professional input,” Nelligan said. “They also said the regular text message support was an important part of the program providing weekly exercise reminders and exercise motivation, as well as keeping them accountable to the program for the 24 weeks.”

Call Your Orthopedist to Manage Joint Pain

Are you looking forward to summer to spend more time outdoors? Warmer weather offers many opportunities to get moving, improve strength and reduce joint pain. If you have osteoarthritis or suffer from joint pain, it is essential to exercise regularly.

Your orthopedist can provide you with safe exercises to relieve joint pain and a fitness schedule that is compatible with your treatment plan. If you experience chronic pain in your knee, hip or shoulder, it may be time to talk to your doctor about a total joint replacement. These procedures are safe and successful with a surprisingly short recovery time.

Call today to schedule an appointment and discuss your options.

Vitamin B3 as a New Glaucoma Treatment

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Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can elevate inner eye pressure to dangerous levels and damage the optic nerve, causing permanent vision loss. Today, more than three million Americans have glaucoma, but half are unaware they have the disease.

Emerging Glaucoma Treatments

Scientists are always seeking new treatments that will prevent the death of retinal cells and regenerate diseased nerve fibers in the optic nerve. In the past, researchers found that a particular molecule called NAD declines in the retina as people age and it puts retinal cells at risk for degeneration.

Studies have found nicotinamide, a water-soluble form of vitamin B-3, prevented NAD depletion and reduced the risk of glaucoma in animals. Nicotinamide is found in foods like poultry, fish, eggs, and cereal grains.

A new study in Sweden is exploring a new potential neuroprotective therapy for glaucoma. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and St. Erik Eye Hospital are testing nicotinamide on animal and cell models for glaucoma.

Pete Williams is Assistant Professor and Research Group Leader for glaucoma at the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Karolinska Institutet, and St. Erik Eye Hospital. “What we have demonstrated in cell and animal models is directly making its way to patients in the Swedish health care system,” said Williams. “This exemplifies our commitment to generating translatable treatments for glaucoma” (Medical Xpress).

Is Vitamin B3 Safe as a Supplement?

If you have glaucoma or glaucoma runs in your family, you may think you should begin taking vitamin B3. However, you should not start any new supplements or vitamins without talking to your doctor.

If you have questions about new glaucoma treatments or natural treatments, call to make an appointment with your eye doctor. All medications can have side effects and can interact with other drugs.

Comprehensive Eye Exams Detect Glaucoma Early

Glaucoma can be a tricky disease to diagnose because it usually does not cause pain or symptoms in the early stages. By the time a patient begins to notice peripheral vision loss, permanent damage has already occurred. Therefore, it’s essential to have a yearly comprehensive eye exam with dilation. During an eye exam, your doctor will perform many assessments and test for common eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. There is no way to prevent glaucoma, but annual exams will help detect glaucoma early and prevent permanent eye damage.

Call your eye care center and make an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam with your ophthalmologist. Are you at increased risk for glaucoma? Take our Glaucoma Risk Assessment and discover whether you could be at high risk for the disease.

Fatty Liver Disease vs. Cirrhosis: Know the Difference

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Keeping a healthy digestive system is necessary for having great overall health, and one of the most important portions of the digestive tract is the liver. The liver is responsible for various life-sustaining processes, such as metabolizing fats, carbs, and proteins, producing bile, preserving glycogen and minerals, eliminating drugs and hormones, along with much more. However, when the liver is affected by disease, it can have a negative impact on your health. A couple of these illnesses are fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, our exceedingly experienced group of gastroenterologists in New Orleans, LA work with patients to better understand their health needs and identify any conditions.

What causes fatty liver disease?

Hepatic steatosis is a problem marked by the existence of fat cells within the liver. This condition has a couple of principal classifications: nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD). While AFLD is caused by an excess of drinking, NAFLD could be induced by obesity, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol, and it is the single most widespread kind of hepatic steatosis in the United States. It can be tough to recognize whether you have hepatic steatosis due to the fact that the problem usually does not lead to any notable symptoms, but it can be identified by our Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates team with blood work, imaging tests, or sometimes a biopsy of the liver.

What is cirrhosis of the liver?

Cirrhosis of the liver is characterized as the growth of fibrotic scarring over normal liver tissue, which is destroyed in the process. Cirrhosis is not a disease that develops immediately; instead, it is ordinarily an effect of years of damage to the liver, whether as a result of excessive alcohol consumption or from another health issue that remains untreated for many years. Comparable with fatty liver disease, the early points of cirrhosis of the liver do not usually cause signs to manifest. Nevertheless, some symptoms of cirrhosis you may encounter are:

  • Nausea
  • Fluid retention
  • Memory issues
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Discomfort in the abdomen
  • Changes in bowel movements
  • Insomnia
  • Lack of energy
  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Darker than normal urine
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes

These are just some of the effects that could take place as the condition progresses over the long term.

Key differences between fatty liver disease and cirrhosis

While fatty liver disease and cirrhosis both involve the liver, it’s important to note a number of key distinctions.

  1. Fatty liver disease is defined by the buildup of fat cells in the liver, but cirrhosis is the formation of scar tissue on top of normal areas of tissue.
  2. Both groups of fatty liver disease (AFLD and NAFLD) can lead to cirrhosis when not treated in time.
  3. Both conditions take time to progress, but cirrhosis warrants a considerably more severe issue.
  4. Fatty liver disease is significantly more common.

In the event that you find out that you have either of these conditions, it’s crucial to seek care as soon as you can. Although both conditions can be chronic, having your illness addressed and your health maintained is essential for your welfare.

Increase the wellness of your liver

Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is glad to employ a highly qualified group of trained specialists who have a detailed understanding of the digestive tract and the life-giving parts that comprise it. We strive to learn about your symptoms and provide innovative diagnostic technology to offer the most accurate explanation of your condition. To book an appointment, contact our team in New Orleans, LA.