Why Do I Need a Liver Biopsy?
The liver is a large organ in the upper right portion of the abdomen that aids in digestion and detoxification. It is also important for aiding in efficient blood clotting. There are many reasons why you would need a liver biopsy. If your doctor tells you that you need a liver biopsy, you may feel concerned […]
Read More
Why Would You Need an Esophageal Dilation?
When you have difficulty swallowing food due to a narrowed esophagus, your doctor might recommend undergoing esophageal dilation. This procedure involves stretching your esophagus in order to open it up more. Why Would You Need Your Esophagus Stretched? You might need to have your esophagus stretched if you have been having trouble swallowing or other […]
Read More
Foods to Avoid with GERD
Having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can make it difficult to enjoy having certain foods. Some foods and beverages can end up making symptoms worse. What Foods Should Be Avoided with GERD? When you have GERD, there are certain foods and drinks that might irritate your condition and cause symptoms to flare up. You should avoid […]
Read More
What Causes Autoimmune Hepatitis?
Autoimmune hepatitis can cause serious liver problems when it is left untreated. Knowing more about this condition can help ensure that you get the treatment you need. Is Autoimmune Hepatitis Life-Threatening? Autoimmune hepatitis can become life-threatening when it isn’t properly treated. Without treatment, you can end up developing cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver. Over […]
Read More
Do I Need Upper Endoscopy?
If you have a digestive system issue such as unexplained vomiting or difficulty swallowing, your doctor may recommend a procedure called an upper endoscopy. Also known as an EGD, an upper endoscopy enables your doctor to identify the cause of some digestive problems and even treat them during the procedure. What is an Upper Endoscopy? […]
Read More
How Do Hemorrhoids Develop?
At some point in your life, you’ll probably have hemorrhoids. In fact, these bulging veins on your rectum and anus are more common as you get older. What Are Hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids (which are also called piles) are bulging and irritated veins just beneath the mucous membranes that line the lowest part of your rectum and […]
Read More
Am I A Candidate For A Liver Biopsy?
Your liver is your largest internal organ, and it’s located mainly in the upper right part of your abdomen. It carries out many essential functions, including making proteins and blood clotting factors, producing bile, and manufacturing triglycerides and cholesterol. When your doctor suspects that you may have a liver-related issue, they may recommend a liver […]
Read More
What Is Esophageal Dilation?
An esophageal dilation is performed to assist a patient who has difficulty swallowing due to an abnormal narrowing within the esophagus. The narrowing itself is called a stricture. It can be caused by a wide range of conditions. Why Would You Need Esophageal Dilation? Narrowing of the esophagus may make it difficult for you to […]
Read More
How To Determine When You Need An Upper Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy is a common procedure that’s used to identify – and in some cases, treat – problems in your upper digestive system. What Is An Upper Endoscopy? An upper endoscopy is a nonsurgical procedure that allows a gastroenterologist (a doctor who specializes in diseases of the digestive system) to examine your upper […]
Read More
Why Is Variceal Banding Performed?
Having variceal bleeding is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt care and treatment. Variceal banding is commonly used to stop this bleeding and reduce the risk of serious complications. What Is Variceal Bleeding? It is the bleeding that occurs when you have enlarged veins or varices in your digestive tract – it can happen […]
Read More