Lactose is a natural sugar found in dairy products. In order for the intestines and the body to absorb it properly, your small intestine produces lactase – which is an enzyme responsible for breaking down the sugar. If the small intestine is unable to produce lactase, the lactose is left undigested as it transfers to the large intestine. This creates the uncomfortable symptoms associated with lactose intolerance. Fortunately, treatments for lactose intolerance are usually enough to control ... [Read More]
Gastroenterology
Causes Of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a common condition, affecting approximately 20% of the population on a regular basis. It happens when the acids in your stomach move up into the esophagus, the tube that moves food down from the throat to the stomach. It can cause a number of symptoms in varying degrees of severity. Fortunately, it can often be prevented and treated successfully. Acid Reflux At the bottom of the esophagus, a ring of muscles, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), opens to allow food into ... [Read More]
Causes of Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD) that causes episodic symptoms. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and fever are just a few of the most common symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease. Patients diagnosed with this condition can have varying degrees of symptoms. No two individuals will have the same symptoms during a Crohn’s disease flare-up. For some, symptoms may be mild and fairly unnoticeable. For others, symptoms can be debilitating and lead to life-threatening ... [Read More]
Common Symptoms of Heartburn
Heartburn is often a symptom of digestive issues, such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux. Aptly named, heartburn feels like something is burning in your chest. It is quite unpleasant and can be confused with other health emergencies, such a heart attack. Defining Heartburn Heartburn is a feeling of discomfort in your chest that may move up to your throat and mouth and most often occurs after eating a meal. A heartburn flareup can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few ... [Read More]
Common Upper GI Disorders
If you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, or difficulty swallowing, this can indicate an upper GI (gastrointestinal) tract disorder. If you frequently suffer from these symptoms, it may be time to seek the expertise of a gastroenterologist for further investigation in order to treat the underlying condition effectively. The upper GI tract consists of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine), while ... [Read More]
