Conditions, Services, and Treatments

Conditions, Services, and Treatments

• Abdominal Pain

  Abdominal pain refers to discomfort or uncomfortable sensations that you feel in the belly area. Pain could be acute where it starts within a few hours or days, chronic where it may last three months or more, progressive where it gets worse over time, or colicky where the discomfort can come and go suddenly.

• Acid Reflux / Heartburn / GERD

  Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid rises into your esophagus resulting in heartburn or other symptoms. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition where the stomach contents move up into the esophagus. If GERD is untreated certain complications can occur, including Barrett’s esophagus.

• Anemia

  Anemia is a problem of not having enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. Anemia can cause tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath.

• Barrett's Esophagus

  Barrett’s esophagus is caused by stomach acid splashing into the esophagus over a long period of time. Patients with Barrett’s usually have symptoms similar to those produced by chronic GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux. Some patients may also have complications such as esophageal peptic ulcers and narrowing of the esophagus. Diagnosis requires an examination called upper endoscopy or EGD where the physician examines the lining of the esophagus with a thin flexible endoscope to look for abnormalities. Currently there is no medication to reverse Barrett’s esophagus; however, treatment of the underlying GERD conditions can slow or stop further progression and prevent complications.

• BRAVO pH Testing

  The BRAVO pH test measures the amount of acidity (pH) in the esophagus. This test helps doctors diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For this test, a clinician will adhere a small recording device called a BRAVO capsule to the esophagus to monitor how much acid is flowing backward from the stomach.

• Capsule Endoscopy

  This procedure uses a wireless camera to take pictures of the organs in the body that food and liquids travel through (digestive track). A capsule endoscopy camera is in a vitamin-sized capsule that the patient swallows where pictures are sent to a recorder worn on the patient’s belt or around the waist. Capsule endoscopy allows physicians to show the inside of the small intestine which is not easily reached with other endoscopy procedures. A capsule endoscopy can be used for finding the cause of bleeding in the small intestine, diagnose inflammatory bowel disease, diagnose cancer, diagnose celiac disease, look at the esophagus, and screen for polyps.

• Celiac Disease / Gluten Sensitivity

  Celiac disease is a chronic (long-term) digestive and immune disorder that damages the small intestine as a result of consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This damage can prevent the body from absorbing vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from the food you eat resulting in malnutrition and other serious health problems such as gas, bloating, and fatigue.

• Colon Cancer Screening

  Cancer of the colon is one of the most common forms of deadly cancer in the Western world along with breast and lung cancer. However, unlike breast, lung and many other forms of cancer, colon cancer is remarkably preventable if colon polyps are discovered and removed before they can become cancer. The key to colon cancer prevention, detection, and cure is colonoscopy. Some major factors include heredity, race, obesity, diet, calcium, red meat, tobacco, and other factors such as alcohol, diabetes, history of endometrial cancer.

• Colonoscopy

  A colonoscopy is an exam used to look for changes such as swollen, irritated tissues, polyps, or cancer in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum. As of 2024, the guidelines recommend you get your first colonoscopy at age 45 if you are at average risk for colorectal cancer. If no polyps are found during your initial colonoscopy, then you will not require another colonoscopy for another 10 years. Regular screenings are recommended from age 45 through 75.

• Clostridium Difficile Colitis (C.Diff)

  C. diff is a germ (bacterium) that causes diarrhea and colitis (inflammation of the colon) and can be life-threatening if not treated. Clostridium difficile colitis results from disruption of normal health bacteria in the colon, often from antibiotics; however, it can also be transmitted from person to person by spores. It can cause severe damage to the colon and even be fatal. Symptoms include diarrhea, belly pain, and fever. Treatment often includes antibiotics; however, infections may return.

• Colorectal Cancer

  Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. While cancer of the colon is serious, it is easily preventable with a colonoscopy. Early detection and remove of polyps before the become cancer offers the best chance of cure and survival.

• Constipation

  Constipation is defined as infrequent or hard stools, or difficulty in passing stool. While not usually a serious disorder, there may be underlying problems causing constipation and, therefore, testing is often recommended. Constipation is often caused by a slow colon that does not contract properly and fails to move the stool to the rectum. Constipation can also result from an obstruction such as tumors or advanced diverticulosis which can distort or narrow the colon. Other conditions that may impact bowel issues can include pregnancy, medications, thyroid hormone deficiency, and travel. Treatments depend on the physician’s findings and diagnosis.

• Crohn's Disease

  Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and fatigue. The disease cannot be cured; however, there are medications available to slow the progression of the disease. Patients with Crohn’s disease may need to receive regular screening for colorectal cancer due to increased risk.

• Diarrhea

  Diarrhea can be caused by a virus, food, or a sign of a disorder such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms include frequent, loose, watery stools, and belly pain. Most cases clear on it’s own; however, some infections may require antibiotics. Severe cases can result in dehydration.

• Diverticulosis & Diverticulitis

  Diverticuli are pockets or pouches extending out from the colon that develop gradually over a long period of time. The pockets occur along the natural weak points in the bowel wall and develop because of the pressure exerted inside the colon as it contracts. Diverticulosis is the condition of having diverticuli.

  Diverticulitis is the result of an expanded diverticulum that develops a thinner wall than the rest of the colon. The bacteria in the colon, which is normally healthy, can seep through the thin walls of the diverticuli and cause infection. As a result there could be bleeding and preforation.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

  Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is a technique that combines the use of endoscopy and x-rays to diagnose and treat certain problems of the biliary or pancreatic ductal systems. Doctors perform ERCP when your bile or pancreatic ducts are leaking or have become narrowed or blocked because of gallstones, infection, acute pancreatitis, and tumors or cancer of the bile ducts or pancreas.

• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

  Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure to assess diseases of the digestive (gastrointestinal) tract and other nearby organs and tissues. During sedation, the doctor will place a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) through the mouth guard and into your mouth. The endoscope has a small video camera on the end that lets the doctor see the inside of your GI tract. The high-frequency sound waves produce detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding organs and tissues, including the lungs, pancreas, gall bladder, liver and lymph nodes.

• Endoscopy

  Endoscopy is a nonsurgical procedure that can be used to examine your digestive tract. Using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a light and camera attached to it, your doctor can view pictures of your digestive tract on a color monitor.

• Enteroscopy

  Enteroscopy is a procedure to examine the small intestine (small bowel) and treat issues at the same time. This part of the intestine is over 20 feet long and just 1 inch wide, which makes it difficult to access. An endoscopy uses an endoscope, a tube with a light and camera on the end. to access the small bowel.

• Eosinophilic Esophagitis

  Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune system disease. With this disease, a type of white blood cell, called an eosinophil, builds up in the lining of the esophagus which connects your mouth to your stomach. This buildup, which is a reaction to foods, allergens or acid reflux, can inflame or injure the esophageal tissue. Damaged esophageal tissue can lead to difficulty swallowing or cause food to get stuck when you swallow.

• Esophageal Dilation

  An esophageal dilation is a procedure used to widen a narrowed section of your esophagus. Narrowing (stricture) of the esophagus can cause problems such as trouble swallowing. During the procedure you are sedated and an endoscope is inserted into your esophagus where it widens the stricture.

• Esophageal Stricture

  An esophageal stricture is a narrowing of your esophagus. It can make swallowing become increasingly difficult. Most strictures develop slowly, due to a chronic disease. Healthcare providers treat strictures by dilating them (Esophageal Dilation) to widen the opening again. Seeking treatment sooner than later will make your recovery easier.

• Fatty Liver

  Fatty liver is the increased buildup of fat in the liver. Major risk factors include obesity and type 2 diabetes, though it’s also associated with excessive alcohol consumption. It usually causes no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they include fatigue, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Treatment involves reducing the risk factors such as obesity through a diet and exercise program. It is generally a benign condition, but in a minority of patients, it can progress to liver failure (cirrhosis).

• Fecal Incontinence

  Fecal incontinence means that you are not able to hold your feces, or stool, until you get to a toilet. Common causes of fecal incontinence include diarrhea, constipation, and muscle or nerve damage. Fecal incontinence can be upsetting and hard to cope with, but treatment is effective and a cure is often possible.

• FibroScan

  A FibroScan is a test that measures the amount of fibrosis (thickening or scarring of tissues) in your liver. It can be used alone or with other tests (such as biopsy, blood tests, ultrasounds) to see how much scarring there is on your liver. During this procedure a medical provider will apply a water-based gel to your skin, then will place a non-invasive probe over your liver. During the exam, you may feel a slight vibration on the skin at the tip of the probe as it delivers ultrasound waves to the area for measuring purposes.

• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

• Gastritis

  Also known as stomach inflammation, gastritis is any of a group of conditions in which the stomach lining is inflamed. Causes include infection, injury, regular use of pain pills called NSAIDs, and too much alcohol. Symptoms include upper belly pain, nausea, and vomiting. Sometimes, there are no symptoms. Treatment depends on the cause. Antibiotics and antacids might help.

• Gastroparesis

  Gastroparesis is the paralysis of the stomach. It is a condition that affects the stomach muscles and prevents proper stomach emptying. Gastroparesis can affect digestion. The cause might be damage to a nerve that controls stomach muscles. Symptoms include nausea and a full feeling after little food is eaten. Diet changes and medications may offer relief.

• Indigestion (Dyspepsia)

  Indigestion, also called dyspepsia or an upset stomach, is discomfort in your upper abdomen. Indigestion describes certain symptoms, such as belly pain and a feeling of fullness soon after you start eating, rather than a specific disease. Indigestion can also be a symptom of other digestive disorders.

• Hepatitis

  Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver which can be fatal. The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions can cause hepatitis. All types of hepatitis are treatable; however, only A and C are curable. Most people with hepatitis A or hepatitis B infection will recover on their own, with no lasting liver damage. In rare cases, people with hepatitis B will develop chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

  Inflammatory bowel disease is ongoing inflammation of all or part of the digestive tract. Types of IBD include ulcerative colitis (inflammation and sores along the lining of the colon and rectum) and Crohn’s disease which is inflammation of the digestive tract. Both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease usually are characterized by diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss. For some people, IBD is only a mild illness. For others, it’s a debilitating condition that can lead to life-threatening complications.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS & SIBO)

  Both IBS and SIBO share many of the same symptoms. These include loss of appetite, abdominal pain or cramping, abdominal bloating, nausea, an overproduction of gas and alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea. People with SIBO may also have vitamin deficiencies, despite eating a balanced diet.

• Liver Disease / Cirrhosis

  Liver disease/cirrhosis is chronic liver damage from a variety of causes leading to scarring and liver failure. Hepatitis and chronic alcohol abuse are frequent causes. Liver damage caused by cirrhosis can’t be undone, but further damage can be limited. Initially patients may experience fatigue, weakness, and weight loss. During later stages, patients may develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin), gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal swelling, and confusion. Treatments focus on the underlying cause. In advanced cases, a liver transplant may be needed.

• Pancreatic Cancer

  Pancreatic cancer is cancer that begins in the organ lying behind the lower part of the stomach (pancreas). The pancreas secretes enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that help regulate the metabolism of sugars. This type of cancer is often detected late, spreads rapidly, and has a poor prognosis.
  There are no symptoms in the early stages. Later stages are associated with symptoms, but these can be non-specific, such as lack of appetite and weight loss. Treatment may include surgically removing the pancreas, radiation, and chemotherapy.

• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Placement

  Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is an endoscopic medical procedure in which a tube is passed into a patient’s stomach through the abdominal wall, most commonly to provide a means of feeding when oral intake is not adequate.
  Under direct visualization with the endoscope, a PEG tube passes through the skin of the abdomen, through a very small incision, and into the stomach. A balloon is then blown up on the end of the tube, holding in place. PEG gastrostomy tubes avoid the need for general anesthesia and a large incision.

• Pancreatitis

  Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the organ lying behind the lower part of the stomach (pancreas). Pancreatitis may start suddenly and last for days, or it can occur over many years. There are many causes, including gallstones and chronic, heavy alcohol use. Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment usually requires hospitalization. Once they stabilize the patient, doctors treat the underlying cause.

• Rectal Bleeding

  Rectal bleeding is a symptom of many different conditions, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer. It is often noticed as small amounts of bright-red blood on toilet paper or a few droplets that turn the water in the toilet pink. You should always get rectal bleeding checked by a physician.

• Stomach Cancer

  Stomach cancer is cancer that occurs in the stomach. Risk factors may include smoking and a diet of highly processed or salty foods. There may be no symptoms of stomach cancer early on. Later, symptoms include feeling bloated after eating, feeling full after eating small amounts of food, nausea, heartburn, or indigestion. Treatment options include surgery, medications, radiation, and chemotherapy.

• Stomach Ulcers & Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori)

  Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection occurs when Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria infect your stomach. This usually happens during childhood. A common cause of stomach ulcers (peptic ulcers), H. pylori infection may be present in more than half the people in the world.

  Most people don’t realize they have H. pylori infection because they never get sick from it. If you develop signs and symptoms of a peptic ulcer, your health care provider will probably test you for H. pylori infection. A peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the first part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcer).

  H. pylori infection is treated with antibiotics.

• Stool Pathogen Testing

  Stool pathogen testing is a diagnostic test that determines whether diarrhea is caused by pathogenic bacteria, parasites, or viruses. Testing may be recommended in cases of possible infectious colitis. Symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and blood or mucus in your loose stools.

• Telehealth Services

  Using SecureVideo and Zoom, you are able to have a private medical consultation with your provider. This service is open to both new and existing patients. Patients are asked to download the Zoom app on either their phone or their computer. They will receive a message with a log in number and a reminder to enter the providers waiting room. This notifies the provider that the patient is ready for the visit.

• Ulcerative Colitis

  Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis is usually only in the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Forms range from mild to severe. Having ulcerative colitis puts a patient at increased risk of developing colon cancer. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and pain. Treatment includes medications and surgery.

• Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

  An upper GI endoscopy or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure to diagnose and treat problems in your upper GI (gastrointestinal) tract. The upper GI tract includes your esophagus, stomach, and the first part of your small intestine (the duodenum). This procedure is done using a long, flexible tube called an endoscope. The tube has a tiny light and video camera on one end. The tube is put into your mouth and throat. Then it is slowly pushed through your esophagus and stomach, and into your duodenum. Video images from the tube are seen on a monitor.

We provide prompt, personalized, caring services with timely reporting to the referring physician. Our physicians are board certified in gastroenterology and our Certified Physician Assistants and Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners compliment our staff.

We also offer the EndoCentre of Baltimore, the EndoCentre at Quarterfield Station, and the EndoCentre of Westminster. Each is a Medicare approved facility that provides your physician with state-of- the-art video monitored equipment for diagnostic procedures such as: Colonoscopy, EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy), and Flexible Sigmoidoscopy.