Patient Education
Plain-language explanations of the procedures we perform and the conditions we treat. Every page is available in English and Spanish.
Procedures and tests
What to expect before, during, and after common GI procedures.
- Understanding Bowel PreparationA clean colon is what makes a colonoscopy accurate. Learn how the prep works, what to eat and drink, and how to finish it successfully.
- Understanding Capsule EndoscopyA pill-sized camera you swallow photographs the small intestine — the part of the digestive tract other scopes cannot easily reach — with no sedation needed.
- Understanding ColonoscopyThe exam that lets your gastroenterologist inspect the entire colon and remove polyps in the same visit — the most complete way to screen for colorectal cancer.
- Understanding Colorectal Cancer ScreeningScreening finds polyps and early cancer before symptoms appear, and removing polyps can often keep colorectal cancer from developing at all. Learn when to start and which test options exist.
- Understanding Endoscopic UltrasonographyEUS combines an endoscope with a tiny ultrasound probe to see beneath the lining of the digestive tract and into nearby organs such as the pancreas, and to guide precise tissue sampling.
- Understanding ERCPERCP pairs endoscopy with X-ray imaging to find blockages in the bile and pancreatic ducts — and treat many of them during the same procedure.
- Understanding Esophageal Manometry & 24-Hour pH and Impedance TestsTwo companion tests: manometry measures how well the esophagus moves, and the 24-hour pH and impedance study measures reflux during an ordinary day.
- Understanding Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)A PEG places a soft feeding tube through the skin into the stomach, so patients who cannot swallow safely can still receive nutrition, fluids, and medicines.
- Understanding Upper EndoscopyA short, sedated exam that lets your gastroenterologist see the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, and take samples or treat certain problems during the same visit.
Conditions
Symptoms, diagnosis, and management of common digestive conditions.
- Abdominal PainAbdominal pain is one of the most common reasons patients see a gastroenterologist. Learn what different patterns of pain can mean, how the cause is found, and which warning signs need prompt attention.
- Barrett's EsophagusBarrett's esophagus is a change in the lining of the esophagus that can follow years of acid reflux. Learn why it matters, how it is found, and how it is monitored over time.
- ConstipationConstipation is one of the most common digestive complaints, and it becomes more frequent with age. Learn what usually causes it, when testing is needed, and the treatments that help.
- Diet and Colon HealthWhat you eat has a direct effect on how your colon works. Learn how fiber, fluids, and everyday habits support digestive health and help prevent common colon problems.
- Food Allergy and IntoleranceFood allergies and food intolerances can cause similar discomfort but are very different problems. Learn how to tell them apart, how each is diagnosed, and how both are managed.
- GallstonesGallstones are very common and often cause no symptoms at all — until one blocks the flow of bile. Learn how gallstone attacks feel, how they are diagnosed, and when treatment is needed.
- HemochromatosisHemochromatosis causes the body to store too much iron, which can quietly damage the liver and other organs over many years. Learn who should be tested and how it is treated.
- Inflammatory Bowel DiseaseInflammatory bowel disease — Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis — causes ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract. Learn how it differs from IBS, how it is diagnosed, and how it is treated and monitored.
- Intestinal GasGas is a normal part of digestion, but bloating and discomfort can interfere with daily life. Learn what causes excess gas, which foods are common triggers, and when symptoms deserve an evaluation.
- Liver DiseaseLiver disease often develops silently, and fatty liver disease is now the most common form. Learn the warning signs, how the liver is checked without surgery, and the steps that protect it.
- Rectal DiseaseHemorrhoids, fissures, and other rectal conditions are common, uncomfortable, and very treatable. Learn the usual symptoms, why rectal bleeding always deserves evaluation, and what treatment involves.
- UlcersPeptic ulcers are open sores in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine, most often caused by a common bacterium or by pain relievers. Learn the symptoms, the tests that find them, and how they heal.
- Understanding Colon Polyps and Their TreatmentColon polyps are common growths on the inner lining of the colon, and certain types can slowly turn into cancer. Finding and removing them during colonoscopy is one of the most effective ways to prevent colon cancer.
- Understanding Crohn's DiseaseCrohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the digestive tract that alternates between flares and remission. Learn about its symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and today's treatment options.
- Understanding DiverticulosisDiverticulosis means small pouches have formed in the wall of the colon. Most people never have problems, but it helps to recognize the signs of complications and the habits that support colon health.
- Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux DiseaseGERD is reflux that happens often enough to cause heartburn or injure the esophagus. Learn its symptoms, when testing helps, and the habits and medicines that bring relief.
- Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D)IBS with diarrhea is a common, manageable disorder that causes abdominal pain along with frequent loose stools. Learn how it is diagnosed and the many ways symptoms can be brought under control.
- Understanding Minor Rectal BleedingSmall amounts of bright red blood with bowel movements usually come from a treatable cause near the anus, but the source should always be confirmed. Learn about common causes, testing, and treatment.
- Understanding Ulcerative ColitisUlcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum that alternates between flares and quiet periods. Learn its symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and how treatment keeps it under control.
Prefer to text?
Send us a message at (813) 564-0315. A member of our team, not a bot, reads and answers texts within 24 hours.