Gastroenterology
Gastroenterologists focus on the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and digestive system, including a range of organs starting at the mouth and ending at the rectum.
Gastroenterologists in Decatur, Texas
Our providers are here to help you overcome the symptoms and health impacts of gastrointestinal (GI) issues.
Pain and discomfort caused by GI issues can have a significant impact on your quality of life. The gastroenterologists at Medical City Decatur, a campus of Medical City Denton, diagnose and treat diseases affecting the digestive tract, liver and pancreas. Our compassionate manner and patient-centered focus mean we provide care with respect and sensitivity.
Experts available 24/7
Free medical information is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Free medical information is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Gastrointestinal (GI) conditions we treat
We evaluate, diagnose and provide treatment for a wide range of GI conditions, including:
- Autoimmune disease of the GI organs
- Biliary tree conditions
- Celiac disease
- Colon polyps and cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Gallbladder conditions
- Gallstones
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- GI disorders in pregnancy
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Liver conditions
- Pancreatic conditions
- Pancreatitis
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Swallowing disorders
- Ulcerative colitis
- Viral hepatitis
Our gastroenterology program
We use the most advanced technology and minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat all digestive disorders, from the simple to the most complex.
Gastroenterology services
Our experienced physicians can perform a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic GI procedures, including:
- Capsule endoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes
- Therapeutic and diagnostic endoscopic retrograde pancreatography
- Upper and lower endoscopy
- Upper and lower endoscopy with narrow-band imaging
- Wireless esophageal pH test
GERD care services
GERD is a chronic condition caused by changes in the gastroesophageal valve (GEV) that allows acid to flow back from the stomach into the esophagus.
GERD diagnostics
GERD can range in severity and can be a primary condition or a set of symptoms secondary to other chronic gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., nausea, vomiting, inflammatory bowel diseases). Determining the source of typical or atypical symptoms is critical to an appropriate treatment plan.
A physician can diagnose GERD based on the presentation of common symptoms, especially in patients with more mild cases. However, the diagnosis of chronic GERD can be challenging given the variety of symptoms and manifestations.
Some GERD diagnostic tools and procedures a physician may use include:
- 24-hour pH impedance testing
- Endoscopy
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
- Manometry
- Patient history questionnaires
- pH monitoring
- Upper GI series (barium swallow or esophagram)
GERD treatment
Treatment for GERD varies according to the severity of the symptoms and the individual. The goals of any GERD treatment regimen are symptom control, prevention of GERD-related complications, healing of esophagitis and helping you get back to life, free of the distraction and discomfort of GERD.
- Diet and lifestyle changes — Creating a nutrition plan and adjusting other aspects of life, such as sleeping habits, are a good first steps toward healing. Our gastroenterologists can provide guidance on these changes and can recommend additional treatments.
- Medication management — Some medicines, such as H2 blockers, antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and promotility drugs can provide symptom relief. However, these medications do not treat the underlying cause, and some (specifically PPIs) can cause long-term complications. It is important to consult with our physicians to determine whether GERD medication should be part of your treatment plan.
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) surgery — We offer TIF, a safe and effective procedure for treating GERD. This minimally invasive surgery restores the one-way operation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to help alleviate valve-related GERD symptoms. The major added benefit of TIF is a quicker recovery, allowing you to return to daily activities within a few days after the procedure.
Understanding GERD
Knowing the signs and symptoms of GERD can help you get the medical care you need to live with more comfort.
Symptoms of GERD
GERD can lead to both typical and atypical bothersome symptoms, which can vary from mild or moderate to severe. These symptoms can include:
- Abdominal fullness
- Asthma
- Bad breath
- Choking while eating or drinking
- Chronic sore throat
- Dental erosions or gum disease
- Difficulty swallowing
- Discomfort in ears and nose
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive throat clearing
- Frequent burping
- Gas and bloating
- Heartburn and chest pain
- Laryngitis and hoarseness
- Lump sensation in your throat
- Persistent dry cough
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Scratchy throat
- Shortness of breath
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Sudden coughing episodes
- Trouble sleeping
- Wheezing