Gastrointestinal Issues

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux is a chronic condition in which stomach acid frequently flows backward into your esophagus (food pipe). Exposure to stomach acid can irritate the food pipe lining. 

GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter—the muscular ring that normally acts as a barrier between the stomach and esophagus—relaxes inappropriately or becomes weak. 

Common symptoms of GERD include:

• A burning sensation in the chest or throat (heartburn)
• Sour or bitter-tasting fluid backing up into the throat or mouth (regurgitation)
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Chronic cough or throat irritation not linked to other causes

While occasional reflux may not be a cause for concern, frequent or ongoing symptoms could indicate GERD. GERD can be managed by employing certain lifestyle modifications and through medication.

At IMPCS, we take a personalized and proactive approach to treating GERD. Treatment focuses on reducing irritation of the esophageal lining, decreasing reflux symptoms, and improving your overall digestive comfort. 

We will work closely with you to:

• Identify your dietary triggers, such as spicy foods or caffeine, that may be causing or worsening acid reflux episodes.
• Help you modify eating habits, such as avoiding late-night meals and eating smaller portions to reduce the frequency and severity of reflux.
• Recommend specific lifestyle changes like smoking cessation, or elevating the head during sleep to minimize the backflow of stomach acid.

When lifestyle adjustments are not enough, we may prescribe medications that reduce stomach acid, improve esophageal healing, and provide long-term symptom relief. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects your large intestine or colon. IBS does not cause structural damage to the intestines, but its symptoms can significantly impact your well-being. Common symptoms of IBS include:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation
• Bloating and excessive gas
• Mucus in the stool

The exact cause of IBS is not known yet. However, it is believed to be linked to a combination of factors, including abnormal intestinal muscle contractions, heightened sensitivity in the gut, inflammation, and psychological stress.

IBS is a chronic condition that requires ongoing symptom management. Our physician takes the time to understand your specific symptoms, triggers, and lifestyle habits to develop an effective treatment plan that may include:

• Dietary modifications to avoid trigger foods, such as high-fat meals, dairy, gluten, or artificial sweeteners, that may be contributing to symptom flare-ups
• Addressing stress-related components of IBS through stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises
• Medications to relieve diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal discomfort

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach (gastric ulcers) or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers). These ulcers occur when the protective layer of mucus that shields the lining of the digestive tract is weakened, allowing stomach acid to cause irritation and erosion.

The two most common causes of peptic ulcers are:

• Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) — a type of bacteria that impacts the protective lining of the stomach
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin, which can irritate or inflame the stomach lining

While some people with peptic ulcers experience no symptoms, others may notice:

• Burning or gnawing pain in the abdomen (especially between meals or at night)
• Bloating, burping, or feeling full quickly
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dark or bloody stools (in severe cases)

If left untreated, peptic ulcers can lead to severe complications, such as internal bleeding and infection. At Internal Medicine & Primary Care of Sebastian, we focus on both identifying the underlying cause of your ulcer and creating a treatment plan that promotes healing of the sores and prevents recurrence. 

Treatment may include antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori infection (if present) and medications that reduce stomach acid, allowing the ulcer to heal. 

Gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu, is the inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. 

Symptoms of gastroenteritis can include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Watery diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps or pain
• Low-grade fever
• Fatigue and body aches
• Dry mouth, dizziness, and reduced urination due to dehydration

It is usually not serious in healthy people, but its symptoms can impact your body’s ability to absorb fluids and nutrients effectively and stay hydrated, since fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea can cause intense dehydration. 

If gastroenteritis is caused by consuming contaminated food or water, it is known as food poisoning. 

While most cases of gastroenteritis are mild and resolve within a few days, the illness can be more serious for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. 

Depending on the severity and cause of your symptoms, treatment for gastroenteritis may include:

• Hydration therapy, such as oral rehydration solutions or IV fluids, for serious fluid loss.
• Medications to manage nausea, control diarrhea, or treat bacterial infections (if present).
• Dietary guidance for the gradual reintroduction of easily digestible foods, such as bananas, steamed vegetables, and oatmeal, to ease your digestive system back into balance.

Diarrhea and vomiting are two of the most common symptoms of gastrointestinal issues, each signaling towards a range of underlying conditions, from infections and food intolerances to digestive disorders. 

Both diarrhea and vomiting are your body’s natural defense mechanisms that help eliminate harmful substances from the digestive system. However, when prolonged or severe, they can lead to dehydration, nutrient imbalances, and other health concerns that require medical attention.

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent, loose, or watery stools. It may be accompanied by cramping, bloating, urgency, or abdominal discomfort. Common causes of diarrhea include viral or bacterial infections, food intolerances, conditions like IBS, and more. 

While short-term diarrhea is usually manageable at home, persistent or chronic diarrhea can lead to fluid and electrolyte loss. 

Vomiting (emesis) is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. It often occurs alongside diarrhea and may be caused by similar triggers, including gastrointestinal infections, food poisoning, motion sickness, or reactions to medications. 

Repeated vomiting can irritate the esophagus, increase the risk of dehydration, and leave you feeling fatigued and depleted.

Frequent or severe episodes of diarrhea and vomiting can be both physically draining and emotionally stressful. We provide prompt evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms and guide you through a personalized care plan.

Our approach to treatment may include:

• Diagnostic testing to identify infections or other causes
• Hydration therapy to restore fluid and electrolyte imbalances
• Medications to reduce nausea, control bowel movements, and treat infections or inflammation

Many people experience bloating or constipation from time to time. However, if these symptoms keep coming back, they may be a sign of an underlying digestive condition that requires medical evaluation.

Bloating is a sensation of fullness or tightness in your abdomen, often caused by excess gas, slow digestion, or difficulty passing stool. It can be uncomfortable and even painful, making it hard to go about your daily activities. 

Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or experiencing hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. It can cause straining, abdominal pain, and a lingering feeling of incomplete evacuation. 

Common contributing factors to these issues are:

• Low fiber intake
• Dehydration
• Lack of physical activity
• Irregular eating patterns
• Digestive conditions like IBS or hypothyroidism

At IMPCS, we understand that these issues are not only physically uncomfortable but can also disrupt your daily routine. Our primary care physician provides personalized solutions for lasting relief. This can include:

• Dietary adjustments to boost fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which help add bulk and softness to stool, making it easier to pass
• Identifying potential food sensitivities and avoiding foods that may be causing gas or slowing digestion
• Lifestyle guidance, including improving sleep patterns, increasing physical activity, and managing stress, which can directly impact your gut health
• Targeted medications, such as stool softeners, laxatives, or medications to reduce gas buildup or support motility (movement of food through the digestive tract) when necessary