Gastro Problems

Gastro Problems

Gastro problems encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the digestive system, from the esophagus to the rectum. These include common issues like indigestion, gastritis, peptic ulcers, and functional disorders that cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. At Blume Health, our gastroenterology team provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for the full spectrum of digestive disorders.

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What Causes It?

Diet and food sensitivities (spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection

Medication side effects (NSAIDs, antibiotics, steroids)

Stress and anxiety

Alcohol consumption

Smoking

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Gallbladder diseases

Pancreatic disorders

Food poisoning or intestinal infections

Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Intestinal motility disorders

Malabsorption disorders

Anatomical abnormalities

Signs & Symptoms

Abdominal pain or discomfort

Heartburn or acid reflux

Nausea and vomiting

Bloating and gas

Indigestion (dyspepsia)

Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both)

Blood in stool or black, tarry stools

Loss of appetite

Unexplained weight loss

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

Fatigue

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food

How We Diagnose

Our specialists use advanced diagnostic methods to accurately identify and assess your condition

Medical History and Physical Examination

Detailed discussion of symptoms, dietary habits, medication use, and personal and family medical history, along with a thorough physical examination.

Blood Tests

To check for infection, inflammation, anemia, liver function, celiac disease, and other conditions that may cause digestive symptoms.

Stool Tests

To check for infections, blood, inflammation markers, fat malabsorption, or abnormal bacteria in the digestive tract.

Breath Tests

To diagnose conditions such as lactose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or H. pylori infection.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed down the throat to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, and take biopsies if needed.

Colonoscopy

Similar to an endoscopy but used to examine the large intestine (colon) and rectum, and take biopsies if needed.

Imaging Studies

X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the digestive organs and detect abnormalities.

Treatment Options

Personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and condition

1

Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications

Changes such as eating smaller, more frequent meals; avoiding trigger foods; managing stress; quitting smoking; limiting alcohol; and regular exercise can significantly improve many digestive symptoms.

2

Medications

Various medications may be prescribed depending on the specific condition, including antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, antibiotics for H. pylori, antispasmodics, laxatives, antidiarrheals, anti-inflammatory drugs, or probiotics.

3

Stress Management

Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation exercises can help manage digestive symptoms that are triggered or worsened by stress.

4

Specialized Treatments

For specific conditions, treatments might include enzyme replacement therapy, immunosuppressants, biologics, or targeted therapies.

Home Remedies

Ginger

Ginger tea or ginger supplements can help alleviate nausea, gas, and indigestion by promoting gastric emptying and reducing inflammation.

Peppermint

Peppermint tea or enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules may help with IBS symptoms, bloating, and gas by relaxing intestinal muscles.

Probiotics

Consuming yogurt, kefir, or other fermented foods with live beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestive symptoms.

Small, Frequent Meals

Eating smaller meals more frequently rather than large meals can ease digestion and reduce symptoms like bloating and indigestion.

Food Diary

Keeping a record of foods eaten and resulting symptoms can help identify trigger foods that worsen your specific digestive issues.

Prevention Tips

Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Stay well-hydrated

Manage stress through relaxation techniques

Exercise regularly

Maintain a healthy weight

Avoid or limit trigger foods that cause digestive distress

Limit alcohol consumption

Don't smoke or use tobacco products

Practice good food hygiene to prevent infections

Take medications as prescribed and inform your doctor about any digestive side effects

Get regular screenings as recommended by your doctor based on your age and risk factors

Surgical Solutions

Advanced surgical procedures performed by our expert specialists

Antireflux Surgery

For severe GERD that doesn't respond to medication, procedures like fundoplication can strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent acid reflux. Modern approaches include laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques.

Surgery for Complicated Ulcers

In cases of peptic ulcers that bleed, perforate, or cause obstruction, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damage or address complications.

Bowel Resection

Removal of damaged portions of the intestine may be necessary for severe inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal blockage, or certain cancers, with reconnection of the healthy segments.

Therapeutic Endoscopic Procedures

Various procedures performed during endoscopy, such as polyp removal, stricture dilation, stent placement, or treatment of bleeding lesions.

Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy)

Surgical removal of the gallbladder for gallstones or other gallbladder diseases that cause digestive symptoms. Typically performed laparoscopically for faster recovery.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Our specialists are here to provide expert care for gastro problems. Schedule your consultation today.

📞 Available Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM