This month is a big deal for colorectal specialists, as it’s both Stress Awareness Month AND IBS Awareness Month. What’s the link, you ask? Well in addition a variety of other triggers, it’s fairly common for IBS to be brought on and confounded by stress. In today’s blog we’ll be exploring the intricate relationship between stress and digestive conditions, and how taking a few moments of self-care will help you spend less moments on the porcelain throne.
Although it’s one of the most common GI disorders in existence, IBS often goes undiagnosed. Many people struggle to recognize the symptoms of IBS, and oftentimes those who do notice that they’re experiencing symptoms still don’t know to associate them with IBS. Today we’ll talk you through what IBS is, as well as common IBS symptoms you should look out for.
The end of March is drawing near— and with it comes the end of Colon Cancer Awareness Month. However, we shouldn’t forget about colorectal cancer as we enter into April. Many patients think that they don’t need to be screened because they don’t have colon cancer symptoms; as we’ve discussed in a previous post, this simply isn’t the case. Everyone over the age of 40 should be screened regularly, and it doesn’t always have to be with a colonoscopy!
If you’ve ever noticed someone with a medical device that appears to be a bag hanging from their stomach, you’ve likely seen someone who’s had a colostomy. But when does one need a colostomy done, and will life after ever be the same? Today we’re discussing what you’ll need to know for post-procedure life. (Hint: many patients find that having a colostomy isn’t as bad as they thought it would be!)
According to the CDC, “51,896 people died of colorectal cancer” in 2019. That was the second highest rate of all cancer fatalities, surpassed only by lung cancer. Considering that colorectal cancer can be detected and remedied in its early stages via screening, this figure is alarming. This March marks the twenty-first colorectal cancer awareness month; we invite you to spread the word, ask questions, and schedule your own screening if you are overdue.
In February of 2000, President Clinton officially dedicated March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Over the last two decades, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month has become a rallying point for the colorectal cancer community. It’s a month that’s near and dear to our hearts, and one that provides a great platform for educating our patients and others about the severity of colorectal cancer. Here is what it is all about.
Given that they’re a common symptom for pregnant women, those with bowel issues, and those who sit for long periods of time, most of us know what hemorrhoids are. What we might not know, however, is why they happen in the first place, how to treat them, and when to draw the line and head to the doctor. That’s why today we’re giving the complete rundown of common causes & treatments of hemorrhoids.
For many new parents, constipation can be an alarming prospect to deal with in young children. After all, babies can’t describe what’s wrong or where it hurts, so you may have to do a little bit of detective work. Today we’re describing what symptoms to watch out to know if your baby is struggling with constipation, and when it’s necessary to call your pediatrician.
For many anxiety sufferers, irritable bowel syndrome can be a very uncomfortable symptom. New knowledge suggests that there might be an incredible link between our gut microbiome and our mental health, so why couldn’t there be other gut-brain links we haven’t fully explored yet? Here’s how stress and anxiety are likely making your IBS symptoms worse (and how to handle it).
Crohn’s is an unpredictable disease that often fills the lives of those who suffer from it with stress and uncertainty, making it difficult for them to enjoy their daily activities. Despite this, it is possible to regain a happy, fulfilling life you want and better manage your condition with some simple tips and lifestyle changes.
Perianal abscesses can cause several painful symptoms for patients, but the good news is that they’re easily treated. For most patients initial treatment is successful - they can move on with their lives and be symptom free! For some, however, the abscess will continue returning. If you have a perianal abscess that keeps coming back, it’s usually a sign that there’s more going on that meets the eye.
While slight rectal bleeding is actually pretty common, there are a variety of gastrointestinal conditions that can cause it, and some are worse than others. Today we’re going over when it’s time to fret (and call your doctor), versus when it’s time to simply flush. Here are some of the top causes of rectal bleeding.
Those who live with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) can tell you this much: flare ups are the worst. Though this condition can make watching what you eat and day-to-day life more difficult, there are thankfully a variety of techniques and strategies you can use to control your flare ups and limit how often they occur.
You may have heard the term diverticulitis, but there is a good chance you don’t know exactly what it is or what the symptoms of diverticulitis are. Read on to find out more about the signs of diverticulosis and how to determine whether or not you have it.
