NAVIGATING STOMACH PAIN: TIPS FOR RELIEF AND WHEN TO CONSULT A GASTROENTEROLOGIST

Everyone has occasional stomach pain, but how do you know what’s causing it and when to call the doctor? Here’s how to ease run-of-the-mill tummy aches and how to spot the signs of potential problems.

Experiencing stomach pain is like navigating through a busy subway station during rush hour — it can be confusing, uncomfortable, and sometimes alarming. Whether it’s a sudden sharp pain that makes you double over or a lingering ache that’s been bothering you for days, you need to know why it’s happening and how to stop it.

You’ve come to the right place. At Newtown Gastroenterology, in the heart of New York City — Elmhurst and Flushing in Queens, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Chinatown in Manhattan — our abdominal pain specialists can help you identify what’s causing your tummy aches and resolve them for good.

Potential causes of stomach pain

Abdominal pain can be tricky. It doesn’t always stem from your stomach; it could originate from any other organ within your abdomen, such as the:

There are many potential pain sources, from ulcers and hernias to irritable bowel syndrome and GERD and beyond. Knowing the exact cause is the key to getting the right treatment and ultimate relief.

Home remedies for mild stomach pain

When the discomfort is mild and is more of an annoyance than a grave concern, try these simple strategies:

Drink more water

Drinking plenty of water is like oiling the gears of your digestive system — it keeps things moving smoothly. Dehydration can exacerbate abdominal pain that’s caused by constipation.

Follow the BRAT diet

The BRAT diet — bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast — is gentle on the stomach for many people. If nausea or diarrhea accompanies your abdominal pain, temporarily focusing on these simple, bland foods can be soothing.

Apply heat

Placing a heating pad or a warm water bottle on your tummy can relax muscles and relieve cramping. It’s like a warm, comforting hug for your insides.

When to consult a gastroenterologist

While home remedies can provide temporary relief, knowing when you need professional help is essential. Here are signs it’s time to call Newtown Gastroenterology:

Persistent pain

If your stomach pain lingers for several days or keeps coming back over a few weeks, it signals that something more serious might be happening.

Severe discomfort

Any sudden, severe abdominal pain — especially if it prevents you from sitting still, is accompanied by vomiting, wakes you up at night, or is associated with trauma — warrants immediate medical attention.

Accompanying symptoms

Other symptoms accompanying your stomach pain, such as fever, significant weight loss, jaundice, difficulty swallowing, or blood in stool, are red flags. These symptoms could indicate infections, inflammatory diseases, or even malignancies.

Risk factors

If you have an existing condition like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or you have a family history of gastrointestinal cancer, it’s critical to consult with our gastroenterologists, even for what seems like mild symptoms.

What do gastroenterologists do?

Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. When you visit us with abdominal pain, we start with a thorough history and physical examination.

Further diagnostic tests might include blood tests, stool tests, imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs, and endoscopic procedures.

Treatment for abdominal pain is as varied as its causes. Depending on your diagnosis, it could range from dietary changes and medications to manage symptoms to more invasive treatments like surgery. The key is identifying the underlying condition accurately.

Never ignore stomach pain. If you have persistent abdominal discomfort, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. Call Newtown Gastroenterology or book online to get to the bottom of your abdominal pain.

TIPS FOR BEATING BACK BLOATING

No one likes that tight, crampy, uncomfortable feeling that comes with overeating or eating the wrong foods. Here’s what to do when bloating strikes.

A full stomach can be satisfying; a bloated one, not so much.

If you’ve experienced the unpleasant sensation of bloating, you probably know it can range from a mild nuisance to debilitating discomfort. Stomach bloating may be common, but not all bloating is created equal.

Some bloating can be a temporary response to something going on in your digestive system, easily managed with a few tweaks to your diet and lifestyle. Other times, bloating indicates a more severe problem.

Here, our board-certified physicians at Newtown Gastroenterology offer their expert tips on how to deflate like a punctured tire.

The different gateways to bloating

For many, bloating is just a part of life, especially during menstrual cycles or after a hefty meal (second helpings of Grandma’s casserole, anyone?).

But when bloating becomes a persistent, daily issue, it might be a sign of a more complex issue like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, a pancreatic disorder, or even certain diseases such as celiac disease. The only way to know for sure is to visit our gastroenterology specialists and determine the root cause.

Beating back the bloat

Paying attention to the severity and regularity of bloating can reveal a lot about your digestive health. If, like 10-25% of healthy Americans, you experience occasional or frequent bloating, try these tips.

Practice mindful eating

If you gulp down your food, you gulp down air, too, which can increase gas and bloating.

On the other hand, eating slowly aids digestion, helps keep stomach acid levels balanced, and prevents the quick bloating that sometimes follows a rapid meal. By breaking down your food, you’ll encounter fewer breakdowns in your GI system.

Choose your veggies wisely

Although healthy and rich in nutrients, some vegetables are gas-forming food bombs. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, as well as legumes such as lentils and beans, are notorious bloat-boosters. Cooking them rather than eating them raw makes them easier to digest.

Cruciferous vegetables also contain complex sugars that bacteria ferment in your gut, causing gas.

Ditch the gum

Chewing gum may seem harmless, but chewing leads to swallowing air and, you guessed it — bloating.

Cut down on carbonation

Sodas and sparkling water contain carbonation that can bloat your belly. If you’re concerned about bloating, stick to noncarbonated beverages.

Limit lactose

For those with lactose intolerance, milk and other dairy products can cause bloating and cramping. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives — lactose-free milk is widely available, and plant-based milks are now the norm at grocery stores.

Pass on packaged foods and extra salt

While convenient, prepackaged meals and snacks often contain high amounts of sodium, which can lead to water retention and that undesirable bloated feeling. Salting your food too much can have the same effect. So, put down the salt shaker and start reading labels to learn where the stealthy salt hides.

Use portion control

Overeating in one sitting can overwhelm your stomach and lead to bloating. Smaller, more frequent meals give your stomach time to digest, and a little space can go a long way in maintaining your digestive comfort.

Try soothing mint

Peppermint relaxes your intestinal muscles, and the magic is all in the oil. Try peppermint oil capsules to relieve occasional bloating.

Hydrate and exercise

Staying hydrated and keeping your body in motion are two pillars that support your gastrointestinal health, maintain healthy bowel movements, and diminish the likelihood of bloating.

When you don’t drink enough water, your body starts to hoard it as a protective measure against dehydration. Drinking water steadily all day can prevent this retention and help prevent constipation-related bloating.

Regular physical activity is a digestive dynamo. Exercise stimulates your abdominal muscles, encourages more efficient digestion, and often leads to more consistent bowel movements.

Occasional bloating is normal; chronic bloating isn’t.

Consult our experts to determine the root cause of your bloating and get started on the right treatment. Book an appointment online or call Newtown Gastroenterology in Elmhurst, New York.

A CLOSER LOOK AT OUR NONSURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS

If you’re sick and tired of yo-yo diets that don’t work and are ready to consider surgery to shed those unhealthy pounds — wait. There’s a nonsurgical solution you should check out first.

All you want is a weight loss plan that works. Is that too much to ask?

In an ideal world, simply eating less and moving more would result in instant weight loss. While that formula is part of every sound approach, it rarely produces results on its own. In fact, the “calories consumed, calories burned” tactic alone often ends in failed attempts, frustration, and giving up.

If you’re at your wit’s end and considering surgical options to shed stubborn pounds — wait.

Our nonsurgical solution takes you beyond fad diets and zeroes in on your unique body and metabolism. Our diverse team of specialists at Newtown Gastroenterology offers a safer yet remarkably effective medical weight loss program.

Here’s a detailed overview of our medical weight loss services, insights into why nonsurgical methods trump their surgical counterparts, the crucial role of medical supervision, the comprehensive nature of our weight loss approach, and what to expect as you step onto this noninvasive, long-term weight management path.

Surgical vs. nonsurgical weight loss

The idea of a quick fix to your weight problem might sound alluring, but surgery comes with several risks and considerable recovery time. On the other hand, our nonsurgical weight loss track offers several long-lasting benefits that the surgical route often fails to deliver.

Our holistic approach is more than just shedding pounds; it ensures you’re in the best health possible. We personalize your plan, consider your dietary and lifestyle needs, and help you achieve your goals without the risk of anesthesia and postsurgical complications.

Surgery may offer rapid weight loss, but the nonsurgical route guarantees a gradual reduction, which is safe and sustainable for your body, mind, and spirit. It’s a lifestyle change that nurtures your body’s natural processes without a jarring intervention. In short, we value your well-being, focusing on healthy habits, mental well-being, and physical resilience.

The medical weight loss advantage

Newtown Gastroenterology medical professionals bring an extensive history of patient care. We apply our combined clinical knowledge to tailor a weight loss program specific to your needs, mitigating health risks that might go unnoticed when you diet alone.

Our supervised weight loss programs also give you access to advanced medical practices, such as pharmaceuticals, that can aid in weight management and address potential underlying medical issues contributing to weight gain.

With our team of experts at your side, you gain physical and emotional support, ensuring that you stay motivated and focused during the challenging yet rewarding process of weight loss.

Our holistic nonsurgical weight loss approach

At Newtown Gastroenterology, we take pride in a comprehensive, personalized, nonsurgical weight loss approach that covers essential aspects of health and lifestyle. This ensures that you’re on the most effective pathway to reaching your weight loss goals. Here’s a closer look at the details.

Physical examination: The starting line for change

Our nonsurgical weight loss program begins with a thorough physical examination — the foundational step in the holistic process.

We look at your medical history and current health status with an analytical lens to personalize your program precisely. By assessing your weight and physical condition, we can create a regimen that addresses weight while optimizing your overall well-being.

How blood tests help us create your unique weight loss program

What’s in your blood could hold the key to your weight loss success. Blood work is a crucial part of our nonsurgical weight loss approach. It provides insights into various biomarkers that indicate thyroid function, hormone imbalances, or metabolic issues that may influence your ability to lose weight.

Armed with this data, our team can make informed, medically sound decisions about your treatment.

Customized diet and exercise evaluation

We mentioned that diet and exercise alone often fail, but we also mentioned that all sound weight loss programs include them.

However, no two individuals are the same, and their paths to weight loss shouldn’t be either.

Our evaluation process for diet and exercise routines is meticulous. We gather insight into your current habits to determine areas for improvement. With this information, we craft personalized recommendations that promote weight loss and are sustainable and enjoyable, making a lifestyle change more of a fulfillment than a chore.

The role of weight loss medications

Medication can be a game-changer when you struggle with significant weight issues, so our nonsurgical weight loss program harnesses the power of FDA-approved medications to facilitate your weight management.

When paired with a balanced diet and a supervised exercise plan, these medications can enhance your body’s ability to shed unwanted fat safely and effectively.

Call Newtown Gastroenterology or book an appointment online to learn more about our nonsurgical medical weight loss program and how it can help you get thinner and healthier.

DO THIS TO BE MORE REGULAR

Bowel movements may not top your list of pleasant conversation topics, but if you can’t go or go too often, talking to a professional can clear up what’s bothering your bottom. Meanwhile, here are tips for making your bathroom routine more doable.

Bowel movements can be a touchy subject, but ensuring their regular occurrence is crucial for your overall health.

If constipation and diarrhea have you feeling like your gut is running the show — or not running at all — then it’s time to get a handle on it, and you’ve come to the right place.

Our team of experts at Newtown Gastroenterology knows all the ins and outs of bowel movements and can help you get regular.

Here’s our go-to guide on navigating the delicate dance of daily bowels, helping you ease into a life of consistent digestive bliss.

1. Hydrate like it’s your job

Dehydration is your arch-nemesis, leaving your stool hard and dry and causing constipation.

You need to drink water throughout the day — it’s the only way to keep everything flowing as it should. A good gauge is the color of your urine; it should be light yellow. If it’s in the amber zone, drink more water.

Hydration hacks:

Carry a water bottle wherever you go to ensure you always have a water source.

2. Fiber: Your bowel’s best friend

Fiber is the nondigestible part of plant foods that adds bulk to your stool, making it softer, larger, and easier to pass. But beyond keeping you regular, fiber has a laundry list of health benefits, from maintaining a healthy weight to reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

There are two types of fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel, which slows digestion, while insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve and helps move material through your digestive tract. Ideally, you want a mix of both.

High-fiber foods you should be eating:

If you’re not getting the recommended 22-34 grams of daily fiber for adults (the right amount depends on age and sex), gradually increase your intake. A sudden spike in fiber can lead to gas and bloating, which are not the kind of movements we’re going for here.

3. Know your bowel enemies

Some foods are more gentle on your gut than others; some can trigger bowel urgency or a complete standstill.

Common culprits include:

Food journaling helps you see your dietary intake at a glance. Record what you eat and any reactions, and note patterns and noticeable irregularities.

4. Get physical

Exercise is a fantastic way to stimulate your bowel movements. Physical activity jump-starts your digestive system and helps move food through your intestines more quickly. Even moderate activity, like brisk walking, can keep everything regular.

Certain yoga poses can encourage peristalsis, the involuntary contractions in your digestive tract that drive food along its way through your system.

Above all, be consistent — shoot for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. Your bowels and your overall health will thank you for it.

5. The straight poop on your posture

Believe it or not, how you sit on the toilet can significantly impact your ability to empty your bowels efficiently. Sitting upright on a standard Western-style toilet seat isn’t ideal for elimination. It kinks your gut, making it harder for the feces to make a clean getaway.

The squatting solution:

The ideal position mimics a squat, which is how our ancestors did their business and is still how it’s done in many parts of the world.

6. Recognize when to call the experts

Most bowel irregularities are benign; you can manage most with lifestyle changes. But if you have persistent or severe symptoms, it’s time to call our Newtown Gastroenterology professionals. Chronic constipation or diarrhea could be a sign of IBS or a more serious condition like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.

Red flags to watch for:

Don’t wait if you have these symptoms. Our Newtown Gastroenterology team can get to the bottom of your chronic bowel problems.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may need extra help reinstating a regular routine. Over-the-counter solutions like bulk-forming laxatives or anti-diarrheal medications can be an effective quick fix for occasional constipation or diarrhea.

However, for long-term battles, you may need to turn to prescriptions. We may recommend various medications for chronic bowel issues, each targeting different aspects, from softening stool to increasing motility.

Book online or call one of our Newtown Gastroenterology offices in New York today.

WILL MY HEMORRHOID RESOLVE ON ITS

You’re going about your day and suddenly feel an uncomfortable itch or a lump near your backdoor — a hemorrhoid — and your top priority is getting rid of it. We’re here to answer your burning question: “Will my hemorrhoid go away on its own?”

Hemorrhoids are just swollen veins in your lower rectum and anus, kind of like varicose veins. They can pop up when there’s too much pressure down there, causing them to swell and inflame.

These pesky clusters of bulging veins, sometimes called piles, can ruin your day and last for weeks or months. They bug you with itching, discomfort, bleeding during bathroom breaks, or a noticeable lump near your anus.

While these symptoms can be a pain in the behind (literally), they’re usually not a sign of anything serious. However, if things get really uncomfortable or persist for more than a week, it’s time to call in the pros.

Our expert team at Newtown Gastroenterology helps people battle hemorrhoids from our offices in Elmhurst in Queens, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Chinatown in Manhattan, New York.

Here’s the lowdown on hemorrhoids.

What kind of hemorrhoid do you have, internal or external?

There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.

Internal hemorrhoids hang out inside the rectum, and you can’t usually see or feel them.

External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are under the skin around your anus, and you can definitely see and feel them.

Will my hemorrhoid go away on its own?

Sometimes, hemorrhoids gradually subside and disappear on their own, especially if temporary things like constipation or pregnancy cause them. But if they keep coming back, or if they’re causing a lot of pain or heavy bleeding, you’ll need some medical backup.

Home remedies: Your first line of defense against hemorrhoids

If your hemorrhoid is mild, there are plenty of ways to give it the boot right at home. Here are some top tips from our team.

Topical treatments for soothing relief

Applying topical treatments such as lidocaine, hydrocortisone, or witch hazel can immediately relieve the irritated area. These products reduce inflammation and discomfort, making daily activities more bearable.

The role of laxatives in managing hemorrhoids

Laxatives can be a valuable tool in your fight against hemorrhoids. By softening your stools, they can help prevent straining during bowel movements, one of the leading causes of hemorrhoids. Remember to use them responsibly and under the guidance of a health care professional.

NSAIDs: Your ally against painful hemorrhoids

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be highly effective for pain relief. They reduce the body’s production of substances that cause inflammation and pain. Always follow the recommended dosage to ensure safe and effective use.

Hydrate for healthier bowel movements

Staying well-hydrated is crucial in preventing constipation, a common trigger for hemorrhoids. Drinking ample water helps soften your stools, making them easier to pass and reducing the pressure on your rectal veins.

Get more fiber in your daily diet

Aiming for a daily fiber intake of 20-35 grams can significantly improve your digestive health. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, helping it move smoothly through your digestive tract. You can get more fiber by changing your diet or adding fiber supplements.

The soothing power of sitz baths

A warm sitz bath for 10-20 minutes daily can significantly relieve hemorrhoid discomfort. The warmth helps soothe the irritated tissue and promote healing. It’s a simple yet effective method of self-care during hemorrhoid flare-ups.

How to wipe when you have hemorrhoids

After a bowel movement, cleaning gently with wet wipes or lotion-infused tissue can help prevent further irritation to your hemorrhoids. It also promotes cleanliness and comfort.

When to call in the pros

If your hemorrhoid is stubborn and won’t go away or is causing severe symptoms, it’s time to seek medical help — and you’ve come to the right place.

Our board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating complicated hemorrhoids with advanced technology and techniques.

Depending on the type and severity of your hemorrhoids, we may recommend rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, hemorrhoidectomy, or hemorrhoid stapling.

Whichever treatment suits you best, you can rest assured that your hemorrhoids —and their annoying symptoms — will be behind you.

Book an appointment online or call Newtown Gastroenterology to find out if your hemorrhoids need professional help.

HELP! I’M STRUGGLING TO LOSE WEIGHT

Losing weight is rarely easy, but you stand to gain a lot in terms of health and longevity if you stay the course. Here’s how to take the guesswork out of weight loss and ensure you follow a safe plan to yield healthy results.

Obesity is a rising global epidemic. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight in 2016, of which over 650 million were obese. In the United States, 30.7% of adults are overweight, 42.4% are obese, and 9.2% are severely obese.

If you’re among the many Americans carrying too much weight, you’ve likely checked out at least a few of the latest diet fads, hoping for a quick fix. Unfortunately, there’s no shortcut to weight loss and health — both take lifelong commitments.

The good news is that the journey starts with small steps that can yield steady, satisfying results. The most successful people realize they can’t do it alone, and that’s where we come in.

Our experienced physicians at Newtown Gastroenterology understand your metabolism and the science of weight loss better than any social media influencer you may follow and can help you reach your health goals safely.

With offices in Elmhurst in Queens, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Chinatown in Manhattan, New York, we’re close by and ready to start your weight-loss journey with you. So, before you resort to extreme measures like crash diets and surgery, come see us.

The perils of obesity

Obesity kills.

First, being overweight increases your risk of developing chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, strokes, and certain types of cancer, to name just a few of the many health problems associated with obesity.

Second, the excess fat in your body causes inflammation and produces hormones that affect your body’s normal functioning.

Third, obesity puts extra stress on your joints, so you’re more likely to develop osteoarthritis, joint damage, and pain.

Fourth, fatty tissues in your throat can collapse and close your airway when you sleep, a condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In addition to depriving you of precious oxygen repeatedly throughout the night, OSA also robs you of sleep, which leads to a cascade of health problems.

Fifth, overweight people have more frequent problems with acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).

Finally, being overweight feels uncomfortable and affects your self-esteem, which can trigger depression.

The risks of surgical weight loss

In some cases, bariatric surgery — surgical weight loss — can be lifesaving, but it should never be used as a quick fix.

Like all surgeries, surgical weight-loss procedures have potential risks and long-term consequences, such as infection, blood clots, and nutrient deficiencies.

At Newtown Gastroenterology, we help consider all factors before taking drastic measures.

The power of medically supervised, nonsurgical weight loss

When you’re stuck between unsuccessful weight-loss attempts and the prospect of surgery, you may feel like there’s nowhere to turn — but there’s hope.

We offer medically supervised nonsurgical weight loss, a refreshing approach that revolves around a personalized plan crafted by our experienced Newtown Gastroenterology professionals. We personalize your weight-loss journey based on everything that makes you you, including your lifestyle, food preferences, daily schedule, medical history, unique metabolic traits, and goals.

While we focus on nutrition counseling and exercise as the foundation, it’s not like an ordinary diet you’ve tried before. Our team acts as your constant supporter, advisor, and expert health consultant to keep you moving forward, breaking through plateaus, and seeing results.

Nutrition counseling

There’s no way around it — food plays a critical role in weight loss. But it’s not just about what you eat but also about why and when you eat.

You can learn how to have a healthier relationship with food through our customized nutrition counseling where we help you understand portion control and focus on nutrient-dense foods.

Physical activity

Any weight-loss program that claims it can help you lose weight without exercise is either fake or dangerous, or both.

Physical activity is crucial to weight loss, but that doesn’t mean you have to become a bodybuilder. You do, however, need to incorporate more movement into your daily routine to burn calories and boost your overall health.

Simply parking farther away from the entrances when you shop can add more steps and burn more calories. Developing small, healthy habits adds up to big changes in your body composition and overall weight.

When you’re ready to step it up, try short, high-intensity workouts. Make fitness fun — find a community or partner with your friends to up your motivation and support.

Extra medical support

There are many dangerous weight-loss products and drugs out there, and we caution you to steer clear of supplements from nonmedical sources.

However, we also understand that some people need extra help making dietary changes, especially at the beginning of a weight-loss journey. If warranted, we may prescribe an appetite suppressant to aid your efforts.

Managing weight isn’t just about looking good but about feeling good and living a healthy, fulfilling life. Take the first step towards your health and wellness journey today by booking an appointment online or calling Newtown Gastroenterology.

I FEEL BLOATED EVERY TIME I EAT

Is it just something you ate, or is the bloating you feel every time you eat something to be concerned about? Learn what causes bloating and when it is necessary to visit the doctor’s office.

Knowing that bloating is common and that almost everyone experiences it now and then doesn’t make it easier to deal with, but it might make you falsely believe it’s no big deal.

That full, tight feeling in your belly could be a temporary response to a big batch of beans, or it might signify a serious health condition. The best way to rule out the latter is to consult with our board-certified specialists at Newtown Gastroenterology. With three offices — Elmhurst in Queens, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Lower Manhattan — we’ve got you covered when bloating strikes.

Meanwhile, here are some tips for spotting the telltale signs of common bloating culprits.

Know what’s causing your belly bloating

Bloating is always uncomfortable but not always a cause for concern. If you feel bloated every time you eat, you may suffer from diet-related bloating or gastritis and stomach ulcers. Here’s a closer look at these common conditions.

Diet-related bloating

Food plays a pivotal role in your overall health, and poor nutrition can lead to multiple health issues. Some of the primary diet-related culprits behind bloating include:

In addition to bloating, an unhealthy diet is one of the leading risks for noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancers.

Gastritis and stomach ulcers

Gastritis and stomach ulcers can cause bloating and involve the inflammation or erosion of your stomach lining. Other symptoms associated with these conditions include:

These conditions are often caused by long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs or infection with a bacterium called H. pylori.

Pancreatic disorders

Pancreatic disorders, including pancreatic enzyme insufficiency and acute pancreatitis, can also result in bloating:

Pancreatic enzyme insufficiency occurs when your pancreas doesn’t produce enough enzymes to aid digestion, leading to malabsorption and symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of your pancreas, and it can also cause bloating (especially after eating), severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Ascites

Ascites is the buildup of fluid in the space between the lining of your abdomen and your organs. It can lead to bloating, along with other symptoms, such as:

Although it may be caused by a number of health issues, ascites is often a sign of severe liver disease, namely cirrhosis of the liver. Excessive alcohol consumption is the main driver behind cirrhosis of the liver.

Help for bloating

When you visit us for chronic bloating, we first start with the easiest fixes. After thoroughly discussing your symptoms and health history, we examine your abdomen and run the most appropriate tests according to our findings. X-rays and other diagnostic imaging can sometimes rule out or confirm your condition.

Once we identify the root cause, we can start treatment, whether that’s a simple change in your diet or more complicated medical procedures. Each underlying cause calls for a different approach, so the only way to know what you need is to schedule an appointment with our Newtown Gastroenterology team. Book online or call today.

IS DIARRHEA EVER SERIOUS?

Everyone has a bout of diarrhea once in a while, so how do you know when this common occurrence is cause for concern? Here’s how to spot diarrhea that calls for a doctor.

Diarrhea is usually mild and short-lived, so when it sticks with you a little longer, you might get concerned — and rightfully so.

Your stool doesn’t lie. It reveals much about what’s happening inside your body and is often the first warning sign of emerging health problems.

Our Newtown Gastroenterology team knows a lot about poop; we want you to understand it, too. Knowing how to spot the signs of problematic stools gives you an advantage. Here’s a closer look at diarrhea and when to call us.

More than one kind of diarrhea

Loose stools can range from a minor, temporary annoyance to a sign of a serious illness. Here are the four main types of diarrhea.

Osmotic diarrhea

Osmotic diarrhea happens when there’s an excess of undigested substances in your colon, possibly due to certain foods or medications that your body struggles to absorb. Common culprits include lactose intolerance, fructose, artificial sweeteners, and certain medications such as magnesium-containing antacids.

If you’re experiencing osmotic diarrhea, try to identify and avoid the triggering substances. For example, if lactose is causing your symptoms, reducing your intake of dairy products may help. Before stopping any prescribed medication, talk with us or another health care professional.

When you have diarrhea, you lose a lot of fluid, so drink plenty of water to replenish yourself. You can also try rehydration solutions or broths to maintain your electrolyte balance.

Secretory diarrhea

Secretory diarrhea occurs when your intestines secrete too much fluid, often due to stress, certain medications, or food intolerances like lactose or fructose intolerance. To manage secretory diarrhea, you have to identify and address the root cause.

If stress is a factor, stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation might be beneficial.

If a particular food triggers your symptoms, adjust your diet.

Inflammatory or infectious diarrhea

Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause inflammatory or infectious diarrhea. These organisms infect your intestines and stimulate an immune response, leading to inflammation and diarrhea.

Good hygiene is your best defense against this type of diarrhea — wash your hands regularly, especially before meals and after using the bathroom, and ensure your food is cooked properly.

If you’re already experiencing infectious diarrhea, staying hydrated is important. In some cases, antibiotics or antiparasitic medications may be necessary.

Managing diarrhea at home

You can usually manage diarrhea at home with simple remedies and dietary changes. We already mentioned that hydration is the best way to counteract fluid loss. In addition to water and other drinks, foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) can help firm up your stools. But avoid dairy, fatty foods, and high-fiber foods.

When is diarrhea serious?

Diarrhea becomes serious when it leads to severe dehydration, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of severe dehydration include extreme thirst, dry mouth, little to no urination, and lightheadedness.

Blood in your stool could be a sign of a more severe infection or condition, like inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer.

A high fever accompanying diarrhea could indicate a severe infection requiring medical attention.

People with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or patients undergoing cancer treatment, are at a higher risk for severe complications from diarrhea. Similarly, people with preexisting digestive conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may experience more severe bouts of diarrhea.

Call us immediately or seek urgent care if you experience any of these symptoms. Reaching Newtown Gastroenterology is easy; just call or click to schedule an appointment.

WILL HEMORRHOIDS HEAL ON THEIR OWN? WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEMORRHOIDS? CHOOSE THE APPROPRIATE SUR

Hemorrhoids, once formed, do not typically heal on their own and are rather challenging to recover from. Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting both men and women in modern society. The causes of symptomatic hemorrhoids are related to “venous congest

Hemorrhoids, once formed, do not typically heal on their own and are rather challenging to recover from. Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting both men and women in modern society. The causes of symptomatic hemorrhoids are related to “venous congestion” and “prolapse of the anal cushions.” During bowel movements, the friction of blood vessels can lead to rupture, bleeding, and infection, resulting in inflammation of the surrounding connective tissues. This can lead to recurrent episodes and the formation of enlarged and proliferative cushions.

Will hemorrhoids heal on their own?

If hemorrhoids have no apparent symptoms (such as grade 1-2), there is no need for treatment. You can manage them through dietary control, maintaining regular bowel movements, and ensuring local anal hygiene. You can coexist peacefully with hemorrhoids in this case.

However, if you experience symptoms such as bleeding, prolapse, or thrombosis, further treatment is necessary to maintain a good quality of life. For patients with grade 3-4 hemorrhoids, sometimes surgery is the only treatment option. Early treatment can prevent hemorrhoids from becoming more severe and causing discomfort.

Nothing significant happens overnight –

Unhealthy lifestyle habits are also a contributing factor to the development of diseases.

If you have more than two of these factors, you may be in the high-risk group for hemorrhoids. Every individual’s situation is different, and the urgency of hemorrhoid treatment varies. If hemorrhoids don’t affect your daily quality of life and don’t cause discomfort, you can coexist with them. However, when they start affecting your quality of life, it’s advisable to seek treatment from a colorectal surgeon as early as possible. Otherwise, hemorrhoids will only worsen over time. Hemorrhoids are a common issue in modern society, and most people experience hemorrhoids or constipation problems at least once in their lifetime, so you are definitely not alone!

WATCH OUT!! STOMACH BLOATED MAY BE GASTRITIS. 5 REASONS WHY YOU ARE BLOATED AFTER EATING!

Gastritis has the potential to cause your stomach to become enlarged or distended, and this uncomfortable symptom is frequently experienced by individuals dealing with acute or chronic gastritis.

1. You are eating too fast and too much – Overeating and eating too quickly can stretch your stomach, causing bloating. Rapid eating also introduces extra air, increasing abdominal pressure and gas production, worsening bloating.

2. Constipation: When stool builds up in the colon and is difficult to pass, it can lead to a distended abdomen and bloating.

3. Easting gassy foods – Some foods can trigger an overproduction of gas in your digestive system during digestion, leading to a bloated sensation.

4. Food Allergies or Sensitivities: Some individuals may experience bloating as a reaction to specific foods they are intolerant or allergic to, such as lactose or gluten.

5. Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by factors like excessive alcohol consumption or certain medications, can result in bloating.

Tips to avoid bloating: