Breast cancer is a serious health condition that affects many patients yearly in the United States. Given that October is dedicated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there’s no better time than now to discover more about the risk factors surrounding this medical concern, as well as methods of prevention and the importance of scheduling routine screenings.

Breast cancer, like all forms of cancer, results when aggregates of cells begin dividing irregularly and at an accelerated rate, rather than progressing through their normal life cycles and biological course. Many times, breast cancer initiates in the milk-generating structures (lobules) when DNA in these cells begins to transmute. In situations where mutated cells develop more rapidly than the body can expel them, the mass of cells aggregate to form a tumor.

Growths or tumors in the breast can form in many parts of milk-secreting tissues, or even in the adipose (fat) tissue that surrounds and shields the milk-producing structures of the breast. In rare instances, cancer of the breast can even spread to further regions around the body, including the digestive tract. Under such circumstances, the physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA collaborate with other practitioners to provide care for any metastatic concerns involving the gastrointestinal tract. Ensuring an early breast cancer diagnosis is key to preserving your overall health and wellness.

What are breast cancer risk factors?

One out of every eight women will have breast cancer at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common forms of cancer impacting women. Medical experts estimate that more than 280,000 women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis throughout 2021, and almost 50,000 will receive a noninvasive carcinoma in situ breast cancer diagnosis.

Most women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 55 years of age, although breast cancer is still among the chief fatalities among women between the ages of 35 and 55. Non-Hispanic African American women and non-Hispanic white women are the most likely to get cancer of the breast, although Latina women and African American women have a higher probability of dying due to the condition.

Genetic factors also pose an elevated risk of developing the condition. Individuals with relatives who have had cancer of the breast are more likely to develop the condition. Though hereditary factors, being female, and being of older age cannot be changed, there are several things that an individual can do to prevent or lessen the chance of developing breast cancer.

Other breast cancer risk factors include:

• Poor diet
• Radiation treatment before age 30
• Becoming pregnant after age 30
• Being overweight
• Drinking alcohol
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
• Breastfeeding for under a year
• Inadequate amounts of vitamin D
• Tobacco use
• Taking hormones, such as chemical contraceptives
• Lack of exercise

Improving your lifestyle while receiving regular screenings can help lower your risk of breast cancer, particularly if any of the above factors apply to your life.

What are the various types of breast cancer?

Cancer of the breast is diagnosed as either invasive (also called malignant) or noninvasive carcinoma in situ. Cancers that are noninvasive are groups of cells that generally grow in one location, splitting haphazardly but not becoming modified in excess of their basic functions in further ways. These cells can be removed through a surgical procedure and are less likely to reform.

Invasive types of tumors are more concerning since they expand branches of cells into the neighboring area, in some cases even disconnecting pieces of themselves and propagating throughout the body. Malignant cancers could also produce and give off harmful hormones and other factors that negatively impact bodily tissues.

The general classifications of breast cancer include:

• Angiosarcoma: Angiosarcoma is a rare variation of cancer that starts in the blood vessels, lymph vessels, or skin.
• Lobular carcinoma: Lobular carcinoma begins in the glands that produce milk, or lobules. When this type of carcinoma is in situ, it is regarded as the least threatening type of breast cancer and is less likely to grow. However, it should still be treated as specified by a doctor, as its existence might indicate the likelihood of more tumors developing as time goes on. In cases where lobular carcinomas are diagnosed as invasive, they are generally more detrimental and are particularly hard to detect.
• Phyllodes tumors: Phyllodes tumors are non-malignant and begin in connective tissue fibers.
• Paget disease of the nipple: This type of breast cancer originates in the nipple or the areola.
• Ductal carcinoma: Originating in the milk ducts, this type of cancer can be invasive, meaning it spreads out of the milk duct into other parts of the breast. It can also be in situ, which means it remains in the milk ducts. If detected in the very early stage, in situ cancers are generally simple to address; however, they are at risk of becoming malignant without treatment. Nearly 80% of breast carcinomas are diagnosed as invasive ductal carcinomas.

About breast cancer screenings

The most effective way to prevent breast cancer, in addition to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle, is to schedule screenings for breast cancer routinely. These screenings often include a clinical assessment along with a mammogram, or x-ray imaging of the breast tissue designed to discover areas of dense tissue within the breast. Regular breast exams are particularly essential for detecting breast cancer in the early stages and enabling the greatest possible treatment results. You can also carry out breast cancer self-exams and should do so on a regular basis. A doctor can demonstrate how to do this correctly.

Arrange for a breast cancer screening

The experts at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates are honored to celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and urge residents in New Orleans, LA to help protect their overall health by having regular examinations for breast cancer. It is vital to have routine breast cancer screenings with a qualified physician to determine the most effective options for diagnosing breast cancer and the best way to protect your health.

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

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.

Patient Resources:

• https://staywell.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?m=61769&i=630984&p=22&ver=html5
• https://g-pact.org/gastroparesis/

Article Sources:

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastroparesis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355787
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15522-gastroparesis

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.

NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) develops due to a buildup of fat in the liver. Without proper care, NASH can lead to cirrhosis and liver damage.

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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.

As the second-largest organ in your body, the liver carries out a multitude of important functions, such as processing glucose, filtering blood, and producing bile. Long-term damage to the liver could end up causing cirrhosis, a condition where scar tissue replaces healthy areas of tissue in the organ. A variety of conditions and liver concerns may result in cirrhosis (severe scarring) of the liver. As a common health issue, fatty liver disease impacts nearly one in four people nationwide and is increasing in prevalence.

Around 20 – 40% of people in the United States are living with a fatty liver condition. If you or a loved one is at risk for developing fatty liver disease, a proper diagnosis can help get you on the right path to treat the harm caused to the liver. A gastroenterology specialist can offer expert care for fatty liver disease. Get in touch with a digestive health physician at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA to find out more about this common but often avoidable problem.

What are the types of fatty liver conditions?

The term “fatty liver” means that there is an accumulation of fat in the liver. While some fat in the liver may not be a cause for concern, a fat constitution of more than 5% could result in advanced scarring and liver inflammation, which is medically known as hepatic steatosis. The main variations of fatty liver disease are referred to as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD).

Common causes of fat in the liver

The overconsumption of alcohol could result in an overabundance of fat in the liver. In instances where this condition ends up causing fibrotic tissue or inflammation, it’s generally diagnosed as alcoholic steatohepatitis. Among individuals who ingest very little to zero amounts of alcohol, the underlying health factors for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are comprised of:

• Adult-onset diabetes
• Obesity
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

When this liver condition advances to the point of causing inflammation and injury to the cells in the liver, it’s diagnosed as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH. This liver condition will likely bypass hepatitis C as the leading reason behind liver transplant procedures among patients in the United States.

How can I identify the signs and symptoms of fatty liver disease?

In many cases, a person with a fatty liver condition isn’t likely to show any obvious symptoms. If and when symptoms and signs are present, however, it could mean that there is considerable liver damage. Such signs could include:

• Swelling in the abdomen and ankles
• Dark urine
• Bowel movement changes
• Lethargy
• Jaundice
• Feeling nauseous

If ever you or a loved one is having any of these health concerns, contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA and have a GI specialist evaluate the condition. When left untreated, fatty liver disease could transition into cirrhosis, which could result in other health concerns, such as ascites (the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal area), the swelling of blood vessels in the esophagus, a decrease in brain function due to liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy), liver cancer, and ultimately, the need for liver transplant surgery.

How is hepatic steatosis treated?

Generally, the recommended ways to address fatty liver disease may include improvements in dietary and exercise habits. People with alcoholic fatty liver disease should abstain from further alcohol consumption, which could prevent the worsening of this condition. Avoiding alcoholic beverages is even advised when fatty liver disease doesn’t stem from alcohol use. If you have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, losing 10% of your overall body weight might substantially improve the fat level in your liver. Performing routine cardio-based activities is also known to minimize the accumulation of fat in the liver. Furthermore, consuming a healthy dietary intake can help manage conditions that are precursors for fatty liver disease, such as diabetes and high cholesterol, and decrease the overall amount of fat in the liver.

Have a fatty liver condition? Visit a GI specialist in New Orleans, LA

A fatty liver could advance to life-threatening fibrotic tissue and the chance of liver failure without qualified treatment. If you or a family member is at risk for fatty liver disease, please reach out to Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA to get information on treating and managing this medical issue. Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates employs a qualified team of GI specialists who prioritize the health, needs, and safety of their patients above all else.

A person’s gastrointestinal tract is among the most essential structures in the body because it contains such critical organs as the esophagus, and stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, and intestines. Dysfunction in the digestive tract can affect the way the body is nourished and excretes waste. If you’ve been having digestive trouble or are noticing signs of gastrointestinal disease, it may be time to visit a gastrointestinal (GI) specialist. Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is a dependable source for digestive health care and proudly serves patients throughout the New Orleans, LA region.

What does a gastroenterologist treat?

A gastroenterologist is a physician who specializes in treating diseases and conditions that impact the digestive tract and liver. A GI doctor helps support a person’s gastrointestinal wellness and provides care for GI concerns, like:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Fatty liver (hepatic steatosis)
• Colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer
• Heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease)
• Celiac disease and non-celiac gluten intolerance

When to see a doctor for digestive problems

Most individuals experience minor GI issues at times. But when abdominal discomfort, difficulty swallowing, chronic heartburn, irregular bowel habits, or other symptoms persist, it’s essential to book a consultation with a gastroenterologist specialist for an evaluation. It’s also important to visit a GI doctor for preventive care and colon cancer screenings beginning as early as age 45.

How to identify a qualified gastroenterologist near me

Locating the right GI doctor for your needs may be challenging, but Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA is available to assist. We’ve provided some helpful tips on how to locate a gastroenterology physician near you.

• Seek a recommendation from your primary care practitioner. Because they’re your first line of defense for any health conditions you experience, your general medicine doctor is a great resource for local GI specialists.
• Ask your friends or family for suggestions.  If someone in your life also has digestive conditions, they might guide you toward a reliable New Orleans, LA gastrointestinal specialist. Find out from your relatives and friends who they visit for their GI concerns as well as colon cancer screenings.
• Search your insurance carrier’s directory for an in-network gastroenterology physician.  To help keep your health costs reasonable, search your insurance carrier’s system or call your insurance coverage representative for a directory of nearby gastrointestinal doctors.
• Check your GI specialist’s training. Before reserving an appointment with a gastroenterologist, make sure to do some investigation into their expertise and education. Learn where they acquired their education and how long they have been in practice. Additionally, research patient reviews to find out what others have to say about the care received from a specific GI physician.
• Book a consultation.  When you have paired down your search substantially, call your selected gastroenterology physician and arrange a consultation. During your visit, pay attention to the way they communicate with you and how they make you feel. Choosing a doctor who focuses on your comfort and welfare can allow you to feel comfortable and more relaxed when receiving care.

Need to find a GI doctor in New Orleans, LA?

Working with an experienced GI physician can help you protect your gastrointestinal health and wellness. The physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates maintain a patient-centered philosophy toward gastrointestinal health and are committed to providing you with outstanding service. For more information or to reserve a treatment consultation, please contact our New Orleans, LA gastroenterology practice.

Generally present in certain foods, like wheat, rye, barley, pasta, breakfast cereal, and other carb-rich products, gluten can be a prominent part of a person’s diet. However, for people with celiac disease, ingesting this protein can lead to serious medical concerns. The primary way to treat this condition is to remove gluten from the diet. If you believe you might be suffering from celiac disease, seek out a physician at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to diagnose and care for your health. Our New Orleans, LA team can help you learn about your new diagnosis and help you adjust your life and dietary intake appropriately.

About celiac disease

Characterized as an autoimmune condition, celiac disease is a disorder where ingesting gluten may cause damage to the small intestine. Patients can have celiac disease no matter how old or young they are. Researchers estimate that close to two million individuals in this country have celiac disease and that around two-thirds of them are undiagnosed or improperly diagnosed. If left alone, this disorder may lead to significant digestive health problems.

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

A patient who has celiac disease might notice any one or more of the following complications after consuming gluten:

• Tooth decay
• Pain, tingling, or numbness in the feet
• Loose bowel movements
• Constipation
• Fainting spells
• Acid reflux
• Abdominal swelling
• Rashes

When you or your loved one are noticing these typical celiac disease symptoms, it is important to contact our New Orleans, LA practice to schedule a consultation with a gastrointestinal (GI) physician. Receiving the best attention can help elevate your total well-being and your digestive health.

How is celiac disease detected?

As a gastrointestinal condition, celiac disease is commonly diagnosed by a gastroenterologist. Your GI doctor could perform one or both of the following two celiac disease tests to detect or rule out this illness:

• A tissue transglutaminase (tTG)-IgA test is a blood exam that is usually effective at detecting this illness.
• An HLA genetic test detects the HLA-DQ8 and HLA-DQ2 genes. Though this assessment won’t identify celiac disease, the absence of these genes in the test results can help to factor out the condition.

The second step in diagnosing celiac disease is to complete an upper endoscopy. Throughout this diagnostic procedure, your GI specialist will check your small intestine for any irregularities by placing a scope with a camera through your esophagus. Endoscopy is typically an easy procedure that is performed as an outpatient service at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.

How is celiac disease taken care of?

Although it is a long-term health concern, celiac disease can be managed by consuming a diet of gluten-free foods. For many individuals who have celiac disease, eating a gluten-free diet can relieve symptoms or even promote the healing of the small intestine. Individuals who have the condition and adapt to gluten-free eating habits often observe improvements to their gastrointestinal tract after a few weeks. Isolating gluten from the diet could seem difficult in the beginning. But through the guidance of a knowledgeable dietitian and a GI doctor at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, individuals in New Orleans, LA who have celiac disease can transform their diet and go on to lead healthy lives.

Get help for celiac disease in New Orleans, LA

In the absence of proper care, having celiac disease could affect your total wellness and change the way you live your life. To discover more about celiac disease and to get expert help with this digestive illness, please reach out to Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA and schedule a consultation with our team.

Seeing blood in your stool is a frightening experience and might cause you to feel anxious about your digestive wellness. However, passing a bloody stool (called hematochezia) might not always signify a major health concern. A wide variety of conditions may result in having fresh or red blood in the stool. The gastrointestinal (GI) specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates routinely provide care for this issue and can diagnose the source of bloody stools or rectal bleeding in adults and children throughout the New Orleans, LA area.

Do bloody stools mean that I have a GI problem?

Fresh or red blood in the stool indicates that bleeding has occurred somewhere within the digestive tract. Bleeding might happen in any area of the gastrointestinal tract, which starts at the esophagus and ends at the anus. In some cases, rectal bleeding or bloody stools in New Orleans, LA individuals might be a result of minor digestive problems that can be treated easily. But because blood in a bowel movement may also be a symptom of a variety of concerning GI diseases, it is extremely important to see a gastroenterologist right away to identify the source of this symptom.

What causes red blood in the stool?

Although a bloody bowel movement is sometimes totally a benign symptom, it could also indicate a more significant health condition that requires professional care. Bloody stool causes can include:

1. Colon cancer
2. Gastric cancer
3. Crohn’s disease
4. Ulcerative colitis
5. Anal fissures
6. Hemorrhoids

When to see a doctor for bloody stools

Any instance of red blood in the stool or rectal bleeding should be evaluated by a GI doctor. Professional care should also be sought if heavy bleeding is noticed or when symptoms, like loose bowels, abdominal discomfort, lightheadedness, lethargy, or other concerns, also arise. The GI doctors at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates can carry out diagnostic procedures to learn at what point within the GI tract the bleeding is occurring. They can also determine bloody stool causes and recommend the appropriate treatment options. Routine procedures performed to examine the source of blood in the stool or rectal bleeding are:

• Stool analysis (fecal tests): These common laboratory tests can detect the presence of hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which could be a sign of cancer of the colon or additional gastrointestinal problems.
• Colonoscopy: Throughout a colonoscopy procedure, a long, flexible scope outfitted with a video camera is utilized to show a live view of the internal structures of the large intestine (colon). GI specialists can use this endoscopic process to visualize conditions within the colon or rectum that may be causing bloody stools or rectal bleeding. Polyps can often be excised during a colonoscopy. Removing colon polyps can decrease the future risk of colon cancer.
• Capsule endoscopy: With a capsule endoscopy, a tiny wireless camera encapsulated in a pill-like device is swallowed. The miniature camera takes and transmits a series of photos of the digestive system as it migrates through the upper gastrointestinal tract and into the small intestine.
• Upper endoscopy: This procedure, also called an upper GI, is conducted by placing a long tube-like camera through the oral cavity and into the digestive tract. An upper endoscopy can help doctors identify whether blood present in the stool might be originating from an issue associated with the throat, esophagus, or stomach, which comprise the upper portion of the GI system.

Get specialty care for GI Conditions in New Orleans, LA

GI health is highly important to your systemic wellness. Any time you notice blood in your stool or have rectal bleeding, it’s essential to consult with a GI physician to pinpoint its cause and help preserve your overall health. To arrange for a consultation with a skilled GI specialist, please contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in New Orleans, LA today.