Colonoscopy
Here at Jay E. Weissbluth M.D., we are proud to offer colonoscopy services to our patients. A colonoscopy is typically performed to identify any changes in the colon and rectum such as the presence of polyps or other intestinal abnormalities and/or to screen for colon cancer. Healthy individuals typically need a colonoscopy screening once every 10 years.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, occur when the veins in the anus and lower rectum swell. These swollen veins are similar to varicose veins and are quite common. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.
Crohn’s Disease
Here at the office of Jay E. Weissbluth M.D. we are proud to provide treatment for Crohn’s Disease. Though this type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has no known cure, there are many therapies available to help improve the quality of life for patients.
Crohn’s disease is commonly associated with inflammation in the digestive tract, abdominal pain, fatigue, severe diarrhea, and even malnutrition and weight loss. This inflammatory bowel disease can be very painful, and symptoms can often come on suddenly. While the cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, it is believed that the immune system and heredity may play a role in the development of the disease. Other risk factors include age, family history, ethnicity, and/or a history of smoking or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication usage.
Treatment
Crohn’s disease can be unpredictable and can vary from patient to patient, so our recommended treatment will be tailored specifically to your condition and symptoms. Most patients find success with medication, surgery, rest, or a combination of these treatments. Depending on your specific case, our goal for treatment will be to reduce inflammation, prevent future flare-ups, and/or to prolong remission.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal condition that is separate from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and is not related to other bowel conditions. Irritable bowel syndrome consists of several intestinal symptoms that generally occur together and can vary in severity and duration for each patient.
Endoscopy
Here at the office of Jay E. Weissbluth M.D. we are pleased to offer endoscopy services to our patients. This safe and quick procedure can be useful in a variety of medical circumstances, specifically when human body systems are concerned. We most commonly perform endoscopies to investigate, confirm, and treat various issues associated with the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, female reproductive tract, respiratory tract, and ear. Endoscopy can also be used as treatment to remove polyps and/or tumors from the digestive tract.
During an endoscopy a long, thin tube known as an endoscope is inserted into the body through an opening such as the mouth, anus, or a small incision to capture detailed images of the desired area. Endoscopy is typically an outpatient procedure that can be completed in as little as 1 hour depending on your specific case. These minimally invasive procedures are performed to observe internal organs or tissues in greater detail or to aid in minor, minimally invasive surgeries such as “keyhole” surgery.
Preparation
Prior to your procedure, we will discuss the pre and post operative instructions for your specific type of endoscopy as well as the risks associated with the procedure. Risks may vary depending on your overall health and the type of endoscopy being performed. Most patients should expect to fast in the 12 hours before their scheduled procedure, though this is not required for all types of endoscopy. In some cases, laxatives may be prescribed to clear the system the night before your procedure. Before beginning your procedure, your doctor will conduct a thorough examination and may ask questions about your medication, supplements you may be taking, and patient history.
Recovery
Recovery will vary depending on the type of endoscopy performed, but most patients experience little to no downtime after the procedure. Most patients will be released after a short period of observation following the procedure. In this time, we will monitor you closely and allow time for the sedative medication to wear off. It is important to make arrangements for someone to drive you home and to take the rest of the day off following your appointment due to the effect of the medication we will give to prevent pain.
While endoscopy is relatively safe, you may experience mild side effects such as a sore throat or soreness following the procedure. If you experience dark stool, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe or persistent abdominal pain, or if you vomit blood, contact your doctor immediately.
Hepatitis C
Here at the office of Jay E. Weissbluth M.D. we are proud to provide testing and treatment for hepatitis C to our patients.
What is Hepatitis C?
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) can cause short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) illness and infection of the liver. This illness is spread through the blood of an infected person, most commonly by sharing needles or other materials used to inject drugs into the body. In acute cases, some patients may experience symptoms 2-12 weeks after exposure, though it is possible to have the infection and spread it to others without experiencing any symptoms. Common symptoms of acute hepatitis C include:
- Yellowing of the skin and/or eyes
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach and/or stomach pain
- Fever
- Dark urine and/or light-colored stool
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
In chronic cases of hepatitis C, patients can often be dealing with life-threatening medical conditions and not experience any symptoms. For many patients, symptoms may not appear until they are experiencing advanced stages of liver disease.
How we can help
While there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, there are many steps that can be taken to help prevent the spread of infection and to cure cases that are caught early on. The most obvious and important way to prevent getting hepatitis C is to abstain from activities and behaviors that are known to spread the disease such as injecting drugs. Talk to your doctor about hepatitis C testing, especially if you are a drug user, as treatment can be effective for many patients in curing hepatitis C in its early stages.
Acid Reflux Treatment
Here at the office of Jay E. Weissbluth M.D. we are pleased to provide acid reflux treatment to our patients who struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What is GERD?
GERD is a condition where the acid in the stomach flows back into the esophagus on a frequent basis. The backwash of this acid is commonly referred to as acid reflux, and can irritate the esophageal lining. Most GERD symptoms consist of difficulty swallowing, heartburn, food or liquid regurgitation, and/or the sensation of a lump in the throat. However, some patients only experience GERD symptoms at night, also known as nighttime acid reflux. These patients may also experience a chronic cough, new or worsening asthma, laryngitis, and/or disrupted sleep.
How we can help
We strive to help our patients experience optimal quality of life, and that includes managing the symptoms of GERD. Most patients benefit from a combination of lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medication to manage their discomfort, though more severe cases may require prescription medication and/or surgery. We will work together to find the right treatment option and lifestyle adaptations to help you experience relief.