Considering The Best Gastroenterologist Near Richmond, Texas?
At Allied Digestive, our gastroenterologist near Richmond Texas frequently answers questions about gastroenterology. We believe that the more our patients know about their own digestive system, the better we can help them lead healthier lives through the diagnosis and treatment of problems affecting the digestive tract.
Gastroenterologist Near Richmond Texas Answers Frequently Asked Questions
What is gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that focuses on disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts, small intestine, colon and rectum,.
Who are gastroenterologists and what do they do?
Gastroenterologists are doctors who study, diagnose, and treat digestive issues.
What kind of special training do gastroenterologists have?
After finishing medical school and residency, gastroenterologists undertake additional training focusing on the digestive tract. This training, known as a fellowship, generally takes two to three years; by the time they finish their fellowship training, most gastroenterologists have had five to six years of additional specialized education following medical school.
What conditions do gastroenterologists treat?
Gastroenterologists treat a wide variety of conditions, such as:
- Colon cancer
- Colon polyps
- Hepatitis
- Celiac disease
- Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gallbladder disease
- Pancreatitis
What is colorectal cancer?
Medical professionals often group colon cancer and rectal cancer together under the umbrella term “colorectal cancer.” Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. In time, these abnormal cells can affect tissue near the original site of growth then spread to other parts of the body. Colorectal cancer affects the colon, also known as the bowel or large intestine, and the rectum. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, not counting some types of skin cancer.
Why is colon cancer screening important?
Colon cancer screening is important because colorectal cancer can develop without causing symptoms – this means you may have colorectal cancer and not know it until the cancer cells have spread. When it comes to cancer, early detection and treatment often lead to better outcomes. Furthermore, colon cancer screening using endoscopy provides an opportunity for your gastroenterologist to remove suspicious looking tissue for biopsy testing in a medical laboratory.
Why is colon cancer screening near Richmond Texas important?
If you live within the Houston–The Woodlands–Sugar Land metropolitan area, you want the convenience of colon cancer screening near Richmond Texas. Colon cancer screening should include a colonoscopy, which is a procedure that allows gastroenterologists to remove any tissue that is likely to become colon cancer long before it poses a threat. Colonoscopy requires preparation the day before the procedure and fasting on the day of screening, though, so you will want to choose a location that is close to your home.
Where can I get care from a gastroenterologist near Richmond Texas?
Allied Digestive provides exceptional care to people living in and near Richmond, Texas. We also provide colon cancer screening near Richmond Texas too, as we believe early detection leads to better outcomes.
For answers to any other questions you may have about gastroenterology, contact Allied Digestive. Our team of caring medical professionals is happy to provide answers.
