The human digestive system is a complex and vital part of the body. It is a long, coiled tube that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. In between, there are several important organs that help to break down food and absorb nutrients. These include the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), and rectum. It is responsible for breaking down food into nutrients, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream and used by the body's cells. The digestive system also helps to ... [Read More]
Austin Gastroenterology
Reasons to See a Doctor Who Performs Colonoscopies
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor examines the lining of the large intestine, which is the colon, rectum, and anus, and removes abnormal growths, called polyps. A long, flexible tube equipped with a tiny video camera is inserted through the rectum into the colon. The camera displays images of the inside of the colon on a video monitor, allowing your doctor to detect any abnormal growths, which may be precancerous or cancerous. Colonoscopies are generally performed as part of a ... [Read More]
Learn About Stomach Cancer Awareness This November
Many Americans likely know at least one person who has or who has had some form of cancer. You might even be affected by this disease. While many individuals know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, or other common types of cancer, stomach cancer is one type that can arise quietly and quickly, and often isn't diagnosed until the later stages. In an effort to bring awareness to this commonly silent disease, November has been named Stomach Cancer Awareness Month. Below, you will discover a ... [Read More]
Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives
With the recent release of a colonoscopy study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, news spread quickly through large media outlets suggesting colonoscopies may not be as effective at reducing cancer deaths as previously thought. Regardless of these news stories, this one study's findings shouldn't deter anyone from getting checked for colorectal cancer. Numerous studies have been done to show colonoscopy effectiveness in early cancer detection and prevention. Colonoscopies remain ... [Read More]
Receive a Colonoscopy By Year’s End (and Maximize Your Deductible)
As we head into the last few months of 2022, now is the ideal reminder to consider the situation of your overall health and your wellness goals for the coming year. One option to help you stay on top of these goals might be to book your routine colorectal screening with an experienced GI doctor. Even though other colon cancer screening testing methods are available, colonoscopy is perhaps the most reliable and efficient of all screenings in the field. The doctors at Austin Gastroenterology ... [Read More]
