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…
Gastroenterologists in Brooklyn
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…
3 Worst Foods that Can Exacerbate Your Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem that occurs when the cells that line the small intestine are unable to secrete enough lactase, an enzyme responsible for properly breaking down lactose (the natural sugar found in milk) and allowing it to get easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Having lactose intolerance means that lactose sits undigested…
How Accurate Is a Colonoscopy to Screen for Colon Cancer?
A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure that involves inserting a colonoscope—a long, thin, and flexible tube with a miniature camera on its tip—into your rectum to obtain a live image of the lining of your colon. The main purpose of the procedure is to detect polyps and other abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and…
How to Choose Your Next GI Doctor
Bloating, constipation, heartburn, and stomach pain are symptoms that usually disappear on their own. However, frequent or severe cases require a consultation with a gastroenterologist or GI doctor. If you haven’t been to a gastroenterologist before, it can be confusing deciding how to choose one. You want to select a doctor who is a good…
Colon Cancer Screening: Is It Right for You?
Colon cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It starts when healthy cells in the large intestine (colon) develop harmful changes in their DNA. Over time, these changes can damage the DNA, rendering the cells unable to properly grow and divide. Damage to their DNA essentially causes the cells…
When to See a Gastroenterologist for Gallbladder Problems
The gallbladder is a small sac located under the liver. It serves the purpose of storing bile that the liver produces. During the digestion process, the gallbladder releases bile to aid in digestion. It’s especially necessary for fat digestion. In some cases, the gallbladder can have issues, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and serious…
Is It Indigestion, or Could It Be My Gallbladder?
Indigestion and gallstones are two different gastrointestinal conditions that can cause abdominal discomfort after eating, especially after eating certain foods. It is easy to get these conditions confused with one another, because there are many similarities. Whereas indigestion usually responds well to over-the-counter treatments, problems with the gallbladder – such as gallstones – require medical…