Gastrointestinal Conditions

At Destiny Internal Medicine, we provide personalized care for a range of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. Your digestive system is a complex network of organs working together seamlessly.

GI problems are conditions that impact the various components of the digestive system, such as the stomach, intestines, and associated organs. GI disorders influence everything from nutrient absorption to waste elimination. 

Whether you're seeking information on gastrointestinal disorders, digestive discomfort, or overall gut health, we can guide you toward optimal digestive well-being.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), commonly known as reflux, is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. This backflow occurs when the muscular ring that separates the esophagus from the stomach relaxes inappropriately or weakens.

Reflux usually has a range of symptoms, including:

• Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest.
• Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting fluid backing up into the throat or mouth.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing.
• Chronic Cough: Persistent cough unrelated to other conditions.

Common causes contributing to GERD include:

• Hiatal hernia or protrusion of a portion of the stomach into the diaphragm.
• Lifestyle factors like obesity, smoking, and certain dietary choices.
• Pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy.
• Conditions affecting the stomach's ability to empty properly.

Accurate diagnosis of GERD involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests. This includes endoscopy and measuring acid levels in the esophagus.

Destiny Internal Medicine adopts a personalized approach to GERD treatment. We may consider the following options:

• Dietary changes, weight management, and smoking cessation.
• Antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production.
• Surgery may be needed in cases resistant to other treatments

Digestive discomfort can involve a large group of symptoms that can impact daily life. Whether you have a burning sensation from heartburn, the persistent feeling of nausea, the discomfort of diarrhea, the exhaustion of vomiting, or the inconvenience of constipation, these symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life.

At Destiny Internal Medicine, our team will develop a tailored treatment plan to help alleviate your immediate symptoms and also address the root causes of digestive discomfort.

• Heartburn usually causes a burning sensation in the chest. It may be caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter, lifestyle factors, or underlying conditions.
• Nausea results in a queasy feeling or an urge to vomit. It is usually caused by viral infections, motion sickness, pregnancy, or underlying medical conditions.
• Diarrhea symptoms include loose or watery stools. This is typically caused by infections, dietary issues, medications, or underlying gastrointestinal conditions.
• Vomiting symptoms involve the forceful expulsion of stomach contents. Causes can include infections, overeating, motion sickness, or underlying medical conditions.
• Constipation is when you have trouble passing stools and have infrequent bowel movements. It may be caused by low fiber intake, dehydration, a sedentary lifestyle, or underlying gastrointestinal issues.

Accurate diagnosis involves understanding the specific nature of your symptoms through clinical evaluation and, if necessary, diagnostic tests.

Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medications, dietary changes, or other interventions based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. 

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, the organ responsible for producing digestive enzymes and insulin. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, the normal function of these enzymes and insulin production is disrupted, leading to a range of symptoms and potential complications.

Pancreatitis can be of two types.

Acute pancreatitis manifests with a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Its causes can include gallstones, alcohol consumption, infections, certain medications, or trauma.

Chronic pancreatitis manifests in the form of persistent abdominal pain, weight loss, and malabsorption. Its causes can include long-term alcohol abuse, cystic fibrosis, autoimmune conditions, or genetic factors.

Common diagnostic tools for pancreatitis include blood tests, imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs, and endoscopic procedures to visualize the pancreas directly.

Treatment options for pancreatitis may include:

• Medications to alleviate pain and discomfort.
• Dietary adjustments to support the pancreas and prevent malnutrition.
• Avoidance of alcohol and certain foods that may trigger symptoms.
• Addressing the root causes, such as gallstone removal or addressing alcohol use.

Crohn's Disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the digestive tract. This autoimmune disorder can cause inflammation anywhere from the mouth to the anus. It is most commonly seen in the small intestine and colon. The inflammation can extend deep into the layers of bowel tissue.

Living with Crohn's Disease requires ongoing management and support.

Symptoms of Crohn's disease include:

• Persistent discomfort or cramping in the stomach.
• Frequent and often urgent bowel movements.
• Chronic fatigue and reduced energy levels.
• Unintended weight loss due to nutrient malabsorption.
• Inflammation may lead to other complications, such as fistulas, abscesses, or strictures.

Causes for Crohn's disease can include:

• A dysfunction in the immune system where it mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract.
• Family history may increase the risk of developing Crohn's.
• Smoking and certain medications may contribute to the risk.

Common diagnostic tools for Crohn's Disease include imaging studies, such as CT scans or MRIs, blood tests, and endoscopic procedures to visualize the digestive tract.

Treatment options focus on symptom control and improving quality of life. This can include:

• Medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms
• Medications to suppress the immune response
• Nutritional support through dietary adjustments 
• Stress management and avoiding triggers

In severe cases, surgery may be performed to remove damaged portions of the digestive tract.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacteria that infects the stomach lining and upper part of the small intestine. This common bacterial infection usually develops in childhood. Unfortunately, it can persist for years if left untreated and can result in various digestive issues.

Symptoms of H. Pylori include:

• Burning or gnawing sensation in the upper abdomen
• Feeling queasy or vomiting
• A sensation of fullness or bloating after eating
• Unintended weight loss because of reduced appetite or poor nutrient malabsorption

Causes of H. Pylori can include:

• Consuming contaminated food or water.
• Person-to-person transmission from an infected person.
• Inadequate hygiene contributes to the spread of the infection.

Common diagnostic methods for H. Pylori include blood tests, breath tests, and endoscopic procedures with biopsies.

Treatment options usually involve methods to eradicate the bacteria and alleviate symptoms using antibiotic medication and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid production. Remember that following prescribed medications and completing the full course of treatment is necessary to prevent recurrence.

Gastroenteritis or the stomach flu is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This condition is commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to a range of symptoms that affect the digestive system.

Gastroenteritis can be disruptive, but with proper care, most cases can be resolved without complications.

Gastroenteritis symptoms include:

• Watery or loose stools
• Vomiting
• Cramps or pain in the stomach
• Nausea
• Fever (as the body fights the infection)

Gastroenteritis may be caused by infections caused by norovirus and rotavirus, bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter, and inflammation caused by certain parasites.

Gastroenteritis is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and clinical evaluation. In some cases, laboratory tests may be conducted to identify the specific infectious agent.

Treatment options may include: 

• Replenishing fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting
• Gradual reintroduction of bland and easily digestible foods
• Antidiarrheal medications

In severe cases, hospitalization is needed to administer intravenous fluids and closer monitoring.

Destiny Internal Medicine will be your partner in resolving your GI conditions and helping improve your digestive health. Our experienced team collaborates with you to develop tailored treatment plans, addressing not just symptoms but the underlying factors contributing to your digestive concerns.

Connect with our experienced team in Aurora for a personalized consultation. 

To schedule an appointment with one of our providers, call us at 720-324-4777 or request an appointment online.