Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects millions worldwide. The usual effects of IBS are chronic discomfort, pain, and other symptoms. Though IBS is not life-threatening, it can impact your quality of life. Let’s explore how diet plays a crucial role in managing IBS. We will also provide local resources and recommendations for irritable bowel syndrome treatment…
North Shore Gastroenterology
Symptoms vs. Diagnosis: Understanding the Role of Testing for Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder that affects the ability to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. This can result in uncomfortable symptoms, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after eating or drinking dairy. Understanding the importance of an accurate diagnosis through comprehensive lactose intolerance testing is essential for…
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Exploring Procedures and Uses
Gastrointestinal endoscopy is a medical procedure that plays an important role in the study, diagnosis, and treatment of various diseases of the digestive system. An endoscope is a thin, highly flexible tube with a light and camera, and it is through this tool that doctors are able to visually examine the gastrointestinal tract. In this…
What Are the Benefits of Lactose Intolerance Testing?
Lactose intolerance can be a challenge to live with without proper education about the condition. It’s important to first definitively know that you have lactose intolerance and not dairy sensitivity or allergy, and the only way to get a definitive diagnosis is through lactose intolerance testing. A method used to diagnose lactose intolerance is a…
Cancer Colon Screening: Tips on Preparing and What to Expect
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine or colon, which is the very end of the digestive tract. Colon cancer is a disease that typically affects older adults, however, younger people are getting diagnosed with colon cancer at an increasing rate. Colon cancer usually begins as benign polyps, which,…
Celiac Disease and Gluten-free Diet
Celiac disease, or sprue, is a digestive disorder affecting millions of Americans. It is characterized by intolerance of a protein called gluten and poor absorption of critical nutrients, and produces symptoms of gas, bloating weight loss, and more. So, this inherited GI condition requires careful dietary management. Let’s learn more about celiac disease, how a…
How to Prepare For Lactose Intolerance Testing
Gas.Bloating.Diarrhea. Cramps. If you regularly experience these symptoms after consuming dairy products, you may be lactose intolerant. One of the easiest ways to confirm this is with lactose intolerance testing at your GI doctor’s office. The test is relatively easy, and here’s how you prepare for it. Why Should I Get Lactose Intolerance Testing? Lactose…
The Best Celiac Disease Treatment Options
If you experience digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and/or gas after eating gluten products, the odds are high that you might be one of 2.5 million Americans who have undiagnosed celiac disease. Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy, is a digestive and autoimmune condition in which your immune system…
What Are the Diagnostic Procedures in Gastroenterology?
Diagnosis of a digestive tract disorder is crucial to accurate and effective treatment. No matter what digestive disorder you have, you will be asked about your digestive symptoms and medical history when you visit a gastroenterologist. In some cases, physical exams are also performed. However, to be certain, in most cases, a gastroenterologist needs specific…
8 Signs That Tell You It’s Time to See a Gastroenterologist
GI (gastrointestinal) issues can truly make life miserable. Problems with digestion and bowel movements are best evaluated by a gastroenterologist, also called a GI doctor. These medical doctors can diagnose and treat your digestive or elimination issue, and help you make some adjustments so that the problem will no longer interfere with your life. Let’s…