frequently asked questions for gastroenterology patients

Frequently Asked Questions

What is H. Pylori?
H. Pylori is a bacteria which grows in the lining of the stomach and may cause ulcers or gastritis.

I have diarrhea, what can I do? 

  • Do the BRAT diet - Bananas, Rice, Apples, Toast
  • Over the counter Imodium
  • No dairy products
  • If the diarrhea lasts more than 2 or 3 days, call to make an appointment 

I am constipated, what can I do?
If your constipation has been present for years, increase your amount of exercise, fiber and water intake. Use Citrucel every day.

If your constipation has been present only for the past few days or weeks, try a Fleet enema. If there is no result, make an appointment with the doctor.

I have heartburn, what can I do?
Do not eat large meals, avoid fatty meals, spicy foods, and caffeine. NO alcohol. If the heartburn persists, try over the counter H2 blockers (Zantac, Pepcid). If the problem persists, call the office to make an appointment.

I have a change in my bowel habits.
Are you straining to have a bowel movement? See Constipation (#3). If your stools are thin, increase fiber, fluids, and exercise. If these are new symptoms, or you see blood in the stool, make an appointment to see the doctor.

When I lay down at night, food comes back up in my throat, what should I do?
Elevate the head of your bed with blocks, not pillows, and see #4 for heartburn suggestions. If symptoms persist, call to make an appointment to see the doctor.

What is fiber?
Dietary fiber is any kind of food such as oranges and oats, that cannot be broken down by the digestive system. Fiber is found in grains, vegetables and fruits.

I have rectal bleeding.
Do not strain when trying to have a bowel movement. The bleeding could be from rectal itching or irritation.

Is blood present on wiping or mixed with the stool? If on wiping, avoid spicy foods and vegetables such as carrots. Use over the counter hemorrhoidal preparation. If there is no improvement, call your primary physician or call to make an appointment with the doctor.

If the blood is mixed with the stool, call to make an appointment.

I had a colonoscopy or panendoscopy and am experiencing discomfort.
The pain is probably due to the air inserted during the procedure. Once you start eating and drinking the air will pass through. You may notice pain on the right and then on the left. This is air moving through the intestine. If pain persists or becomes worse, you should call the doctor.

I have a lot of gas.
Avoid gassy foods such as pop, vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, beans, onions, bananas, lettuce and apples. Avoid bran and pastries.

Use over the counter Gaviscon, Gas-X, or Charcoal capsules.

What will happen during my first appointment?

The first time you see the doctor it will be for a consultation. Your medical history and current symptoms will be discussed. The doctor may perform a physical exam, but any testing will be performed at a later date. Please bring with you copies of recent tests, x-ray reports and list of medications.

What is a colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy is a test that allows the doctor to examine the lining of the large bowel by inserting a small flexible tube into the rectum and advancing slowly into the colon. This is done under sedation. See Video in the procedure section.

What is a panendoscopy?
Panendoscopy is a procedure that enables the doctor to look at the lining of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum by inserting a small flexible tube into the mouth and advancing it slowly into the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. This is done under sedation. Because of topical anesthetic sprayed into the mouth there is no gagging sensation. There is no interference with breathing. See Video in the procedures section.