Treat Ulcerative Colitis by Avoiding Alcohol and Food Triggers

Ulcerative colitis primarily affects women and is recognised as being more common in those in their 20s and 30s, affecting approximately one in a thousand people. This form of inflammatory bowel disease causes the lining of the bowel to become both inflamed and ulcerated, resulting in painful symptoms.

Ulcerative Colitis – Key Symptoms and Triggers

In The Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements, Brewer highlights common symptoms of ulcerative colitis to include the following:

• blood-stained diarrhoea
• diarrhoea containing pus and mucus
• fever
• abdominal pain
• feeling very unwell

One of the main approaches to the treatment of ulcerative colitis includes making simple changes to one’s diet and avoiding alcohol. Research studies have identified that serious triggers for ulcerative colitis involve foods which are high in sulphites and/or caffeine.

Ulcerative Colitis Treatment – Foods to Avoid

In addition to avoiding alcohol, there are many foods which have been recognised to be linked to active ulcerative colitis. Brewer recommends that those suffering from regular attacks or bouts of ulcerative colitis, should try to avoid intake of the following different foods:

• sausages
• preserved meats
• fruit squash
• coffee
• prawns
• scampi
• shellfish
• dried fruits and vegetables
• processed fruit pies and fruit cakes
• foods containing sulphites
• foods containing sulphur-rich seaweed

It is important to get into the habit of regularly checking food labels for food additives, with E220 to E229 having been identified as containing sulphites known to trigger episodes of ulcerative colitis. Alternatives to caffeinated drinks, include herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint tea.

Ulcerative Colitis – Safe Foods and Drinks

Having looked at the various foods identified as triggering bouts of ulcerative colitis, it is worth noting down foods and drinks which have been proven to be safe for sufferers. Brewer recognises safe foods and drinks, as follows:

• pork
• bacon
• beef
• beef products
• fish
• raw fruit such as apples, pears, bananas, citrus fruits, melon
• milk
• yogurt
• cheese
• home-made soup (avoid tinned/dried soup)
• breakfast cereals
• lettuce, tomatoes
• potatoes
• peas, beans

For those who enjoy a pint or two, although beer and lager are recognised triggers for ulcerative colitis, German beer is safe, due to the fact that it does not contain sulphite. However, both red and white wine is best avoided, as these are also identified to trigger the condition.

As highlighted above, ulcerative colitis causes symptoms such as blood-stained diarrhoea and may be managed through the avoidance of certain foods and drinks. Anything containing high levels of sulphites should be cut out of the diet and alcohol (apart from German beer) is best avoided.

For treatment and help managing your ulcerative colitis symptoms, contact us to make an appointment right away.

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Relieving and Treating Ulcerative Colitis

The Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis and the Importance of Diet

Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that effects the large intestine or colon of the sufferer. The causes of ulcerative colitis are largely unknown and the main symptoms are abdominal pains and bloody diarrhea. The treatment of ulcerative colitis will largely depend on the severity of the symptoms diagnosed.

The Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

The most common form of treatment for ulcerative colitis is the prescription aminosalicylates. These are an anti-inflammatory drug with the active ingredient being mesalazine. The aim of these drugs is to reduce the inflammation within the large intestine or colon and may be successful in reducing the symptoms or even achieving remission in mild to moderate sufferers.

However this is not often the case for more severe cases and therefore additional medication is prescribed alongside the aminosalicyates. The additional medication is usually in the form of steroids. Steroids work in a similar way to aminosalicyates by attempting to reduce the inflammation, the difference being that they are considerably stronger. These can be administered orally or directly into the rectum with the use of an enema or suppository.

The long-term use of steroids is not advisable with the onset of a number of potential harmful side effects. These may include high blood pressure, weight gain, and thinning of the skin. If prescribed steroids close monitoring of the patients’ health will occur with the aim of stopping the use of these drugs when symptoms improve.

Ulcerative Colitis and Surgery

If the symptoms of ulcerative colitis have not responded to treatment thus far other forms of medication may be prescribed. The main one is immunosuppressants. These work by reducing the immune system within the body with the hope that this will stop the inflammation. The difficulty with immunosuppressants is that they will effect the entire body and not just the colon resulting in a higher chance of infection.

The treatment of severe ulcerative colitis is undertaken in the hospital due to the increased risks of dehydration and malnutrition. Surgery will involve the complete removal of the colon with the small intestine being re-routed to enable fluids to leave the body, An internal pouch is then inserted and is emptied in a similar way as when the body defecates.

Diet and Ulcerative Colitis

Many sufferers cite particular foods that can worsen their symptoms and they learn to avoid these foods. However it is very difficult to pinpoint particular foods for general advice for all ulcerative colitis sufferers as different foods effect people in different ways. Despite this a number of authors on the subject state that during a flare up sufferers should avoid foods that contain high insoluble fiber and dairy fats.

By maintaining a healthy diet and undertaking regular exercise many ulcerative colitis sufferers are able to manage their symptoms without the need for medication and are able to have an active lifestyle. Other advice that many believe can be helpful in the treatment of ulcerative colitis include drinking aloe vera juice, which is an anti-inflammatory, and avoiding the consumption of irritants such as caffeine and alcohol.

For professional care in treating and relieving your ulcerative colitis or other gastrointestinal issues, please contact the office of Dr. Vikram Tarugu to make an appointment.

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Waging a Battle Against Colitis Through Your Diet

How to Prevent or Fight Colitis: Healthy Diets Can Correct Inflammatory Disorders

Colitis is commonly known as ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease. This condition is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes tiny sores in the inner lining of the large intestine. When the mucous membranes that are lining the colon become inflamed, ulcers are developed. Some uncomfortable symptoms such as: bloody diarrhea, gas, bloating, pain, and hard stools may occur as a result of the development of ulcers in the colon.

Complications and Solutions of Colitis Symptoms

There is no one known conclusive cause of colitis, but the most possible contributing factors are: poor eating habits, stress, infectious bacteria, and food allergies. A diet that consists of too much refined foods, hydrogenated fats, and sugars contribute to inflammatory disorders and constipation. Hard stools are not as harmless as they seem, because the colon muscles have to work harder to move them through the colon. Another down side of that is that this can cause the mucous lining of the colon wall to have a pouch-like bulge. Researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm recommend a high fiber diet for colitis condition.

How Fiber Foods can Benefit Colitis

Soluble and non-soluble fiber foods have healing properties and are easy-on-the-colon. They are excellent means of controlling constipation, diarrhea and preventing hemorrhoids. Fiber plays a key part in weight loss without hunger because high fiber foods stay in the stomach longer and decrease the cravings for refined foods. Fiber keeps the blood sugar and energy levels even. Studies have shown that fiber regulates the gastrointestinal tract (G.I. tract). It cleanses and moves out the toxins from the body. On the other hand, refined foods will trap and store the toxins and fats in body. All refined foods contribute to inflammatory colon conditions, because the fibers and nutrients are removed during the refining of the foods.

A Diet for Colitis

Fresh vegetable juices are live healing foods. They are very effective in the healing of all kinds of ulcers. All refined and processed foods must be eliminated from the diet. Every meal should consist of green leafy vegetables and seaweed broth or freshly made juices, salads, whole grains, beans, nuts, and purified water. Cabbage and aloe vera juices are powerful inflammatory healing agents.

Juicing suggestions:

1. Purple or green cabbage, celery, apples, carrots, pineapple, and ginger root.
2. Cabbage, spinach, parsley, papaya, strawberry, ginger, and lime.
3. Cabbage, broccoli, carrots, apples, cantaloupe, ginger, and lime.
4. Collard green, turnip green, pineapple, pears, ginger, and lime.

Salads suggestions:

1. Romaine lettuce, shredded carrots, tomatoes, cucumber, red peppers, shredded onion, garlic, red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.
2. Organic baby spinach, red peppers, pumpkin seeds, avocado, tomatoes, and garlic.

Broths suggestions:

1. Collard greens, asparagus, turnip, onions, and garlic.
2. Seaweeds, turnip greens, carrots, pok choy, onions, and garlic.

Stir fried vegetables suggestions:

1. Broccoli, cauliflower, red cabbage, red and green peppers, onions, garlic, and grape seed oil.
2. Green cabbage, carrots, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, kale, red peppers, onions, garlic, and olive oil.

Other foods are: whole grain oats, oat bran, 8 grain cereal, multi grain bread, sweet potato, brown rice, lentils and other beans, fish, nuts, soy milk, almond milk, fruits, and water.

For professional care regarding ulcerative colitis, make an appointment with the office of Dr. Vikram Tarugu.

References: Wright’s Book of Nutrition Therapy, Jonathan Wright

Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Phyllis A. Balch, CNC

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Discovering My Daughter’s Colon Disorder and Getting Symptom Free

Crohn’s, Celiac or Ulcerative Colitis: 15 Years Symptom-free

Many years ago, my daughter started to suffer acute abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas and weight loss. After a few visits to the doctor and then a barium enema and subsequent X-ray, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Because Crohn’s is considered to be an inflammatory bowel disease with potentially serious side effects (such as having a bowel resection to remove badly inflamed, lesioned and/or necrotic tissue), the doctor we were seeing put her on an ASPIRIN® derivative called Pentasa (5-ASA) to combat the inflammation.

I was concerned enough to start doing research on Crohn’s and finding out all I could, including getting advice from a naturopath and homeopath. As an experimental psychologist, my philosophy has always been to research whatever seems reasonable and has some history of success. The naturopath suggested I buy a book, Breaking the Vicious Cycle, written by a Canadian woman, Elaine Gottschall.

Does the Gluten and Sugar-free Diet Work for Many types of IBD?

On first reading, the suggestions in Elaine Gottschal’s book seemed impossible to follow. I would have to go through every item in my cupboard and fridge, examine the labels, and if it had wheat, dairy, sugar or any form of gluten (this includes most of the grains except rice) then I was to throw it out and start fresh. That was the bad news. The good news was that Ms. Gottschall affirmed that most inflammatory bowel disease could be attributed to the start of inflammation from the by-products of ingestion of certain foods. A change in diet could potentially cure this by eliminating the by-products and thus the intestinal inflammatory response. The only caveat was that if the person had been on prednisone, the diet was not likely to work.

I can attest to the fact that very few prepared foods of any kind are free of wheat and/or dairy and/or sugar, never mind gluten. If you have never examined the ingredients on boxes, cans and even packages of product, you will be surprised. Even some labels of tomato sauce – tomato sauce for heaven’s sake – have sugar in them and ketchup is loaded with it.

My daughter was a typical young Canadian school girl at the time – she loved hamburgers, French fries, and – unbeknownst to me because I never had them in the house – any kind of sweets containing sugar. The sweets she would sneak or buy when she was at school.

I was a single working mom, usually tired when I came home from work. It seemed that I could never have the energy or time to make every meal from scratch. Standard items like bread and cold cuts to make sandwiches for lunch were off the menu, ice cream was off the menu, pizza off the menu, fried foods off the menu, mac and cheese off the menu, hot dogs (yes, hot dogs – if you examine the ingredients you will see that some brands have wheat and/or sugar) off the menu, ketchup definitely off the menu, pasta off the menu, yogurt off the menu (too much lactose in commercial yogurts, I would have to make my own), but fresh fruit and meats were allowed, thank God, and so were nuts. We were going to turn into rabbits and/or squirrels. The list seemed long and exhausting.

I usually had a mound of fruit and vegetables in my shopping cart. It was the “no wheat” clause that scared me the most. No bread. No rye, pumpernickel, linseed, challah, crusty baguette, sourdough or anything else. I love bread! Even pizza. We did not have pizza that often but now that it was off the menu I was in love with it. Impossible to let go of pizza.

As I kept debating on making this enormous change in diet, I was also calling our doctor because my daughter was not feeling better in spite of the Pentasa. She had constant gas, bloating, diarrhoea and pain. I read somewhere that perhaps high doses of Pentasa could create gas and asked the doctor about this. He wasn’t sure. And then we had a crisis.

Emergency Run to the Hospital at 5 A.M.

One night my daughter woke up screaming. We bundled her up, carried her to the car and raced to hospital emergency.

During the course of seven hours of waiting, tests and more waiting, all her vital signs started to plummet. My daughter was dying. All I could do was stand by her and hold her feet. They were ice cold. I have never held on to someone’s feet so fiercely and for such a long time. I was not going to let her go.

I did not let go of her feet until the stretcher was almost at the operating room door and then I went out and walked the streets because I could not bear to sit still.

They worked on her for four hours. I was back at the hospital watching the operating room door when the resident came out. He walked towards me. I stood up and did not want to cry.

He said, “She’s fine. She had acute inflammatory appendicitis which abscessed and then burst. It took us over two hours just to clean her bowels of the infection. But she’s fine.”

I was so overwhelmingly happy I burst into tears and then I threw my arms around him.

“And by the way,” he said casually before he left, “There was no sign of Crohn’s that I could see. There was massive infection but I saw nearly all of her intestines when we were washing them and there was no sign of Crohn lesions anywhere.”

So I went to see the radiologist with the X-rays which he had taken before he diagnosed my daughter with Crohn’s. I told him that she nearly died of acute inflammatory appendicitis and that there was no sign of Crohn’s. “How did you miss the appendicitis?” I asked. His only response was that her appendix had been hidden behind her intestine and that he was right, she had Crohn’s. “But she nearly died,” I said, “because you missed the appendicitis.” “You’ll see I’m right,” he said. I walked away.

Wake-Up Call

While my daughter recuperated in the intensive unit for a week, she was fed by IV. This is actually a good thing in the case of acute bowel inflammation because it allows the bowel to rest and heal without added irritants. And the antibiotics she was given were dealing with the infection.

Halfway through the week, a hospital nutritionist met with me and outlined the diet plan for someone with Crohn’s. Bland diet. White bread. White rice. I don’t remember the rest because I was horrified at what was considered to be an appropriate diet.

But I said nothing because I was determined that my daughter would start to follow Elaine Gottschall’s diet plan. The minute she was taken off the IV, I made two hospital runs a day with homemade chicken broth into which I had scrambled an egg. Bland but at least it wasn’t white marshmallow bread. Then I went home, bought a small chest freezer, threw everything suspect out of my cupboards and waited to bring my daughter home.

IBD Specialists Don’t Necessarily Believe in Diets

At the same time I made an appointment with an IBD specialist. I still felt we could use all the information and help we could get. The appointment, when it finally arrived, did not go well. He was a specialist who was doing some test runs on a new drug. “What will this drug do?” I asked. “She will have 30% fewer episodes of Crohn’s inflammation,” he said. “But what about diet?” I asked. “Isn’t diet important? I’ve read a report that says…” “It’s about quality of life,” he interrupted. “Okay,” I said. “What I understand you are saying is that she can eat anything she wants, including ice cream and fries and she will have 30% fewer episodes of sitting on the toilet with acute stomach pain?” “Yes,” he smiled.

As we walked out of his office, my daughter was still convinced that life was not worth living without fries. But I remembered that one of our babysitters ended up with a colostomy bag because of Crohn’s and so I stopped and said, “I can’t follow you around to make sure you stay on this diet. So you have a choice. You can either follow it and see what happens or you can have 30% fewer painful episodes of sitting doubled over on the toilet. I’m not being mean. It’s your choice, I promise. But I really, really hope you’ll think this over carefully before you choose.”

It took six months of experimenting and assembly line cooking on both our parts. When I cooked, I would make enough to freeze so we could manage for the month if we were lucky. I made eight loaves of almond bread at a time, six casseroles of eggplant and meat lasagne, stuffed zucchini, almond flour muffins (which disappeared in a day), vegetable meat loaf. It became easier and easier to get the hang of gluten- and sugar-free eating as we went along.

Soon we had people coming to my daughter for advice on how to manage such a diet. Whether she had Crohn’s or celiac disease, we never found out because she refuses to go through another barium enema to this day. But the diet works for many types of IBD according to Gottschall, so it may not matter what the exact diagnosis really was. And my daughter has not looked back. Today she is tall, straight and strong and, as long as she keeps away from gluten, wheat, milk, cream and soft cheeses, she is symptom-free.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in the story above or any other gastric, stomach or colon pain or discomfort, contact the office of Dr. Vikram Tarugu to make an appointment as soon as possible.

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Ulcerative Colitis: What to Expect

Signs and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis Explained

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. The colon is one of the fundamental parts of the digestive system. The colon absorbs water and sodium from wastes before they exit the body through the rectum.

Ulcerative colitis is similar to Chrohn’s disease, but with slight differences. Unlike Chrohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis occurs throughout the digestive tract.

Although ulcerative colitis can affect any age group, patients whose ages are between 15 to 30 and 50 to 70 are most vulnerable. Ulcerative colitis usually starts at the rectum and eventually propagates to the colon.

Ulcerative colitis is divided into three main groups: ulcerative pancolitis (all of the colon is infected), ulcerative proctitis (the lower colon or rectal area is infected), and distal colitis (only a specific side of the colon is infected).

Although it is not easy to cure for ulcerative colitis, patients can get treatment to relieve and manage the symptoms. The following information shows the common signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis and treatment options available.

Signs and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis symptoms vary among patients. The symptoms depend on the age of the patient, severity and location of the inflammations. The following are common ulcerative colitis symptoms:

• Frequent fever
• Abdominal pain
• Frequent diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Rectal bleeding
• Loss of appetite
• Skin sores
• Joint pain
• Frequent vomiting
• Pain at the rectal area

As noted earlier, the symptoms vary depending on where the inflammations are occurring. For example patients who have ulcerative proctitis, which affects the lower colon and rectal area, mostly causes symptoms of rectal bleeding and pain. Fulminant colitis is particularly dangerous and it can cause severe damage to the colon. Call your local health care provider or doctor if you are feeling constant pain in the abdominal area.

Ulcerative Colitis Treatment

There are many treatments for patients. Diet, medications, and surgery are the main types of treatment methods available for patients who have ulcerative colitis.

Treating ulcerative colitis through diet and nutrition invovles eating small increments of food each day, drinking plenty of water, abstaining from fatty food products, and avoiding milk, alcohol, and high fiber foods. Anti-inflammatory drugs are medications often used to treat ulcerative colitis. Sugery is needed some patients. Surgery can help cure ulerative colitis and decrease the chances of getting colon cancer.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Readers who are concerned about their health should contact the office of Dr. Vikram Tarugu for more information.

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Natural Supplements that Help the Symptoms of Colitis

Natural Supplements for Colitis

Colitis is inflammation of the colon, which is also known as the large intestine. The condition is usually accompanied with symptoms, including bloating and abdomen pain. Other common symptoms include chills, dehydration, diarrhea, fever, blood in the stools and excessive gas. Natural supplements are a simple, yet effective, way to help with the condition. Natural supplements can also be used to help treat and relieve many of the symptoms that are often associated with the condition.

Evening Primrose Oil and Lactobacillus Acidophilus for Colitis

Evening primrose oil is rich in essential fatty acids. Fatty acids work to protect the lining of the colon from irritation and damage, and taking fatty acid supplements can help to relieve some of the symptoms associated with colitis, as well as help to prevent further damage. Fish oil supplements or flaxseed oil supplements can also be taken for their fatty acid content.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a healthy bacteria, which works to help balance the flora in the body. Taking it in supplemental form can help to increase the amount of good flora in the body, which can help to fight against harmful bacteria and other substances. Taking this in supplemental form has been shown to help those with colitis, and can also help to relieve some of the symptoms that are often associated with the condition.

Bromelain for Colitis

Bromelain is an enzyme that occurs naturally in pinapple. Bromelain is often used to help relieve inflammation, which can be beneficial to those that suffer from colitis. Bromelain has been shown to help relieve inflammation, which is what characterized colitis, and can also help to prevent and treat cramping like pain. It can also help to improve digestion problems that are associated with the condition. Although bromelain can be increased through pineapple in the diet, it works best when taken in supplemental form.

Although these natural supplements can be very effective in helping with colitis and its symptoms, they should never be used to replace conventional treatments that have been prescribed by a doctor. They also should not be used to replace any diet or lifestyle changes that have been suggested by a medical professional.

For colitis treatment in Florida, make an appointment with the office of Vikram Tarugu today.

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Understanding Colonoscopies and Preparing for Yours

The Colonoscopy  

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an important procedure used to examine the lower part of the intestinal tract, the large intestine and rectal areas. The test is used to diagnose illness, obtain biopsies and remove polyps.

The instrument used in a colonoscopy is called a colonoscope, a hollow tube with lenses and a light. The colonoscope is inserted into the large intestine through the rectal opening, and advanced through the intestine. The colonoscopy should be performed in time frames recommended by the patient’s physician.

The colonoscopy is a simple outpatient procedure that lasts approximately 30-45 minutes. Patients are given a mild sedative to reduce their discomfort. Most patients remain awake during the procedure. Severe pain is unusual, but some patients may experience mild cramping sensations during the procedure.

Once the colonoscopy is over and sedative begins to wear off, patients can return home. Patients should remember to bring someone with them who can drive them home after the procedure.

Following the colonoscopy, patients may experience mild cramping. If a biopsy was takne, slight bleeding from the rectum and blood in the stool may occur. Patients may resume their normal diet and activities.

Preparing for the Colonoscopy

Patients must prep their colon before having a colonoscopy. The cleaner the colon, the better look the doctor can get to assess the patient’s condition.

There are three main options for bowel cleansing: Lytely products, Magnesium Citrate, and Fleets Phospho Soda. Some patients may experience vomiting or nausea from these products. The doctor will give instructions for obtaining one of these products and how to administer them.

If you need colonoscopy or gastrointestinal services in Florida, contact the offices of Vikram Tarugu as soon as possible.

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When to seek the help of a Gastroenterologist

A Gastroenterologist is a highly trained physician that has received specialized education for the treatment of diseases related to the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, colon and rectum.  Gastroenterologists, upon completion of medical school, must go through an additional 5+ years of education of Gastroenterology and medical school.

With that said, Gastroenterologists are able to effectively treat patients for an array of conditions and should problems arise in areas that we mentioned above then it’s time to seek the help of a Gastroenterologist.

For this article, we were able to sit down with one of Florida’s leading Gastroenterologists (Dr. Vikram Tarugu) where we received some information on what signs and symptoms a patient should look for when determining if Gastroenterologist intervention is necessary.

Common symptoms that you should see a Gastroenterologist for include:

Heartburn

Symptoms of heartburn include a pain or burning sensation in the chest or throat area.  Heartburn is initiated when acid from the stomach is released up into the esophagus which is the tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach.  While heartburn for most people tend to be a “once in a while” experience, regular occurrences (two times or more per week) could potentially be a sign of a serious condition called “Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)” so visiting a Gastroenterologist for an evaluation is highly recommended.

Gallstones

The gallbladder (a small organ inside of the stomach), is the place where gallstones (hard nuggets) develop and can vary in size from the size of grain of sand to the size of a golf ball (there can be multiple sizes at once).

Common symptoms include a sudden and sharp pain towards the right side of the abdomen.

The causes and development can be initiated by Blood Sugar Imbalances, Estrogen Dominance, Food Allergies/Sensitivities, Chronic Stress, Low Fiver Diet, Low Stomach Acid Production, Obesity, Rapid Weight Loss, and Low-Fat Diets.

Gallstones develop when there’s an imbalance in the liquid that’s produced by the liver which is known as “bile”.  If you have symptoms of Gallstones, Gastroenterologist intervention is necessary.  Treatment of Gallstones includes the removal of the gallbladder while in some cases the Gastroenterologist will make use of medication to dissolve the stones.

Lactose Intolerance

While being a common disorder, being “Lactose Intolerant” means that your body does not produce enough protein lactase to either break down or digest the content found in dairy products.  Common symptoms of being lactose intolerant include bloating, stomach pain, gas and diarrhea after consuming dairy products (symptoms may not occur for 2-3 hours after consuming dairy products).

If you haven’t yet been diagnosed as being lactose intolerant, it’s highly suggested that you seek the help of a Gastroenterologist as you’ll be able to find out if you have this condition.

Undergoing a medical exam for this is important as if you are lactose intolerant, the Gastroenterologist can help to suggest (and in some cases “provide”) dietary supplements and alternatives which would help you to avoid the consumption of products that will initiate the symptoms.

Celiac Disease

Celiac Disease is involved with and targets the immune system and causes damage to the individual’s small intestine.  This is typically a hereditary/genetic condition and requires individuals to not consume foods that contain “gluten”.  Gluten is a certain type of protein that is found in barley, rye and wheat and if you experience pain or diarrhea after consuming foods with these proteins then you may have Celiac Disease.

While avoiding the consumption of foods containing gluten properties can alleviate the pain, it’s highly suggested that you visit a Gastroenterologist as treatment may need to be performed depending on the amount of inflicted intestinal damage.

Other signs of possibly serious conditions that would require the attention of a Gastroenterologist include:

• Rectal bleeding
• Leakage/underwear stains
• Bowel movement urges that are hard to control
• Diarrhea
• Change in bowel habits
• Pale-colored stools
• Dark urine
• Heartburn (acid reflux)
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Excessive gas or belching
• Esophageal pain
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite or weight
• Lethargy

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms that were discussed in this post then immediately seek the attention of a Gastroenterologist so your condition(s) can be diagnosed and properly treated.  Avoiding or prolonging treatment can further complicate and worsen the condition so an immediate medical evaluation is highly recommended!

Dr. Tarugu has won many awards for safety and timeliness. Visit his center today and see why so many are calling him “The Best Gastroenterologist in Florida“!

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Helping Someone Cope with the Symptoms of IBD

Living with Someone Who Has Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is difficult for the person who suffers from it. But life can also be difficult for family members and friends who live with and care for the IBD patient.

Remember, chronic illness affects not only the patient with the illness, but it also affects caregivers such as family members and friends. Aside from the bathroom always being occupied (just kidding) the caregiver may experience disruptions to his or her daily routine.

Having to ask for help from friends and love ones is hard for many IBD patients. Patients may not want to inconvenience others, but it is often necessary. Both patients and caregivers should try to remember what the other person is going through. Patients should remember to thank those that help them, and caregivers should try to be understanding of the IBD patient’s needs.

A friend or family member may be asked to drive the patient to a doctor’s appointment or a lab test. Caregivers may also need to take time off work to care for a patient who is having a severe flare up. An important thing for caregivers to remember is not to overextend themselves. There will be times when caregivers should just say no to the IBD patient and ask the patient to seek help from another source. This is difficult for both the patient AND the caregiver. However, if the caregiver overextends himself/herself to the point of becoming ill, he or she will be no good to anyone.

Helping Someone with IBD

If you have a friend or family member who suffers from IBD, here are some tips to help you manage:

• Be available and listen.
• Look for organizations that offer support for caregivers.
• Accept that the chronic illness may not go away.
• Focus on positive aspects of living, such as participating in fun activities, rather than just the patient’s physical health.
• Remember to smile.
• Be positive.
• Take care of yourself.

If Someone is Helping You Cope With IBD

If you suffer from IBD and seek help and support from friends and family members, make note of the following tips:

• Say thank you often.
• Seek help from a variety of people.
• Do not be afraid to ask for help.
• Try to be positive.
• Stay connected with friends and family members.
• Pursue hobbies and fun activities with people in your support network.
• Try to smile.

For medical attention in Florida for IBD, make an appointment with us today.

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The Differences Between IBD and IBS

IBS vs. IBD: Helping People Understand

I am often frustrated by the lack of understanding people have with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Since IBD sufferers don’t always look sick, people are quick to say things such as “you need to relax,” or “its all in your head,” or “take some immodium/pepcid/pepto bismol” and all sorts of other things. Many people who have never heard of IBD may confuse it with what many refer to as nervous stomach, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, the two conditions have some very important differences. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects as many as 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. IBS sufferers experience chronic, recurrent abdominal pain, sudden bouts of diarrhea, belching, excessive gas and constipation.

Symptoms of IBS and IBD

Symptoms Below is a comparison of the symptoms common to both irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Inflammatory Bowel Disease Diarrhea Diarrhea Crampy, abdominal pain Crampy, abdominal pain Belching Belching Excessive gas Excessive gas Constipation Constipation Vomiting Fever Weight loss Blood in stool There may be other symptoms for each condition. As you can see, symptoms overlap, which can make it difficult to diagnose whether a person has IBS or IBD. Microscopic evaluation and colonoscopy of the intestine may offer the only clue.

While these symptoms are similar to those that IBD sufferers experience, following is one easy way I have found to describe the difference between the two conditions to those unfamiliar with IBD. In inflammatory bowel disease, your digestive tract is actually diseased. This may not be the most scientific or attractive way to describe IBD or the difference between the two conditions. But in trying to help people understand why IBD can be so serious and why there isn’t a quick fix, I find this explanation helps.

If you require gastrointestinal care in Florida, make an appointment with us at the offices of Vikram Tarugu.

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Seeking Help for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Education is key to understanding and even controlling your inflammatory bowel disease. If you have access to the library or the Internet a wealth of information is at your fingertips. The advent of the Internet has helped introduce many web sites about IBD. Check out some of the sites below:

Caring for Kids with IBD

This is a general support web site email list for parents of children with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and IBD. Anyone is welcome to join. Members of this online community can share information, offer ideas and find support. To join the Caring for Kids with IBD online community, point your web browser to www.onelist.com/community/Caring4KidsWithIBD.

The Crohn’s Disease Help Center

Point your browser to www.crohnshelp.com to access the Crohn’s Disease Help Center, sponsored by Remicade. The Crohn’s Disease Help Center contains educational information for patients and their families and friends. The site contains links such as Understanding Crohn’s Disease, Help and Hope and more. Visitors to the site can also learn more about Remicade.

The American Chronic Pain Association

The American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide a support system for those suffering from chronic pain.

The ACPA offers training in skills and attitudes proved effective in helping chronic pain sufferers. Members learn stretching and relaxation techniques, and other skills to help them lead more fulfilling lives. The ACPA does not take the place of traditional medical treatment. Check out the ACPA web site at www.theacpa.org and find tips on coping with and managing chronic pain, ten steps for moving from patient to person and similar topics.

Crohn’s-Colitis Webring

A Crohn’s and colitis “web ring” has been established on the Internet. What is a web ring? It is the easiest way for Internet surfers to navigate the web. Websites covering the same topic band together and link their sites to one another. This allows visitors to reach them quickly and easily. When navigating a topic on the Internet, web ring navigation links are usually found at the bottom of the page. Visitors can move through the ring in any direction, going to the next five sites related to the topic, the next site, or the previous site. They can also review all the sites that are members of the ring.

To make an appointment for IBD treatment, contact us at the office of Vikram Tarugu today.

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Online Resources for IBD

IBD in Cyberspace

If you haven’t surfed IBD on the web, there is a wealth of information that is both useful to take to your physician and for helping you cope with the disease.

Mediconsult.com: This web site offers information on several different topics. Point your browser to www.mediconsult.com/ibd/frames_indes.hts. The site features a What’s New section and Interesting and Educational Material.

Crohn’s/Colitis Home Page (www.qurlyjoe.bu.edu/cduchom.html): This is a fun site “for info, solace and encouragement.” Users register and pose questions to each other on coping, medicines, treatments and a variety of other topics.

Teen Page (www.sky.net/~thomp64/r_teens.html): This site, created for teens with IBD, features teens stories, what’s good and bad about living with IBD.

IBD Experiences Site (www.members.aol.com/jokersaf/noni.html): This site features “FAQs, experiences, message board, research articles, and an IBDan column.”

The Crohn’s and Colitis Pharmacist (users.aol.com/cducrx.uc.html): Features links, facts and drug information.

Ostomy, Crohn’s, Colitis, Medicine and Related Links (nooduitgang.com/stoma/links.html): Features hundreds of links to other IBD-related sites.

Stadtlanders Focus Area (www.stadtlander.com/ibd/): This site features IBD related links and information.

IBD (www_medlib.medutah.edu/WebPath/TUTORIAL/IBD/IBD.html): Compares ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Includes endoscopic pictures.

IBD List Digest: An e-mail list moderated by Thomas Lapp. He filters and collects all messages posted by subscribers then sends it out as one message to all subscribers. Point your browser to 128.248.251.136 for back issues or qurlyjoe.bu.edu/cducibs/ibdlit.html for information on subscribing.

The Crohn’s and Colitis Pharmacist: If you are looking for information about specific medications, frequently asked questions, links to IBD sites, or information about clinical trials and medication news, point your browser to www.crohnspharmacist.com/. The Crohn’s and Colitis Pharmacist Web site contains a wealth of information about various drugs and remedies used to treat IBD, as well as a helpful diagram of the GI tract.

Don’t forget to visit the CCFA homepage at www.ccfa.org. This site is full of useful information such as weekly updates, basic facts, complications, medications, diet, nutrition, fitness, day-to-day coping and insurance and legal issues.

When you’re ready to make an appointment concerning your inflammatory bowel disease, contact the office of Vikram Tarugu.

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Controlling Your Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Taking Control

Having any kind of chronic illness is difficult, especially having one that seems as shameful as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). But one of the first steps to controlling your disease and overcoming embarrassment is to take control of the disease. You have two choices: to live your life as someone with a debilitating disease or to live your life as someone who has temporary bouts of a controllable illness. As a person living with IBD, I have opted for the latter. With a chronic illness come countless prescriptions, tests, doctor visits and treatments. These things change so often it is easy to forget what effect these changes have on your body. By keeping this diary, you can become an active participant in your treatment.

My Colitis Diagnosis

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis my third year of college. The first six months were difficult, but I was glad to finally have a diagnosis. By the end of six months I was in remission and was hopeful I would be one of the lucky ones who only has one flare up and never gets sick again. Another six months later and I was close to being admitted to the hospital. My doctor put me on Prednisone and I went on with daily college life. I was able to graduate on time, but I still went through periods of immense depression with each flare.

With my first job out of college I discovered the Internet and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). I became a sponge and tried to soak up as many nutrition plans and eastern and western treatments as possible. The new knowledge gave me a power over the illness that I wasn’t sure existed. It took me yet another six months to learn how to control my disease using this newfound knowledge. Now, each time I start to feel symptoms I change certain aspects of my lifestyle and eating habits to prevent a flare. I am not always successful, but my flares have become short lived.

What I’ve Picked Up Along the Way

I have learned many new things about myself since my diagnosis. Sometimes it is easy to laugh about my illness and poke fun at myself. Other times, if I feel like crying, I let myself. Some may consider this a sign of weakness, but sometimes being weak makes me feel strong later. I’ve learned that I can accomplish more than I give myself credit for and that I truly am no different from others.

For more information or treatment in Florida for Crohn’s or other inflammatory bowel disorders, get in touch with the office of Dr. Vikram Tarugu to make an appointment.

 

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The Causes and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is one of the diseases under the umbrella term “Inflammatory Bowel Disease” (IBD). Another chronic digestive disorder, Crohn’s disease, is a form of IBD. Approximately 1,000,000 Americans suffer from IBD. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammation of the lining of the large intestine. The lining of the intestinal wall becomes red, swollen and bleeds. The inflammation prevents water from being absorbed into the bloodstream, resulting in diarrhea.

Ulcerative colitis can begin at any age, but most commonly occurs in people 15-40 years of age. Men and women have an equal chance of getting the disease.

What causes ulcerative colitis?

The cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. Researchers agree that genetics play a large role in the disease. Ulcerative colitis does run in families. Research is being done to discover the specific gene/group of genes that predispose people to IBD.

Symptoms

• Persistent diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Rectal bleeding
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Weight loss
• Skin or eye irritations
• Liver problems
• Delayed growth and sexual maturation in children
• Bleeding may lead to anemia

Remission and Flare-ups

Ulcerative colitis patients experience short periods of remission, where the disease is inactive. Some patients can experience several months to years of remission.

Periods of illness, also called relapses or flare-ups, cannot be predicted and the cause of a flare-up is unknown.

Use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin) is the most common cause of flare ups. NSAIDs aggravate the immune system and prevent the intestine from protecting itself from unwanted bacteria.

Stress does not cause ulcerative colitis, but MAY trigger flare-ups in some patients. If stress is known to cause flare-ups in a colitis patient, therapy and support from family friends or support groups should be part of the treatment regimen.

Diet does not cause ulcerative colitis or cause flare-ups. Many ulcerative colitis patients become frustrated because their doctors cannot tell them a specific diet to follow. This is because diet is individual to the patient. Foods that may trigger symptoms in one patient may not in another patient.

Controlling Ulcerative Colitis

Medications such as sulfasalazine and corticosteroids are standard drugs used to treat ulcerative colitis. When those drugs are unsuccessful, other drugs may be used, or surgery may become necessary. Surgically removing the colon cures ulcerative colitis.

Some patients use therapies alternative to western medicine to treat their ulcerative colitis. Herbs and acupuncture are two of the most common forms of alternative therapy that ulcerative colitis patients try.

If you’re worried you might have ulcerative colitis, make an appointment with Dr. Vikram Tarugu’s office today.

 

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Love Your Dog? Things To Look Out For In Canine Gastroenteritis

Canine Gastroenteritis: Vomiting and/or Diarrhea in the Dog Caused by GI Inflammation

Dr. Tarugu is not a vet. He is merely a dog lover and wanted to include something for our four legged friends. Canine gastroenteritis is one of the most commonly encountered health problems seen in dogs. When the stomach and intestinal tract of a dog becomes inflamed for any reason, gastroenteritis occurs. Canine gastroenteritis can vary from mild and self-limiting to severe and life-threatening depending on the cause and the severity of the symptoms.

Causes of Canine Gastroenteritis

Potential causes of canine gastroenteritis vary widely. Some of the frequently seen causes include:

• dietary indiscretion – dogs frequently scavenge and often eat foods which may result in gastroenteritis
• parasites – including roundworms, hookwoorms, whipworms, coccidia, Giardia
• hemorrhagic gastroenteritis – an individual disease frequently seen in small-breed dogs
• viral diseases – including canine parvovirus, canine coronavirus and many other viruses
• bacterial diseases – including Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter and many other bacteria
• systemic or metabolic disease – kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatic disorders and other systemic or metabolic diseases can affect the canine gastrointestinal tract
• foreign bodies – dogs may swallow objects which result in gastroenteritis
• toxicities or poisonings – various toxins and poisons can cause gastroenteritis in dogs

This is only a partial list of the most frequently encountered potential causes of canine gastroenteritis. There are many other potential causes of gastrointestinal disease and gastroenteritis in dogs.

Vomiting and Diarrhea in the Dog are the Most Common Symptoms of Canine Gastroenteritis

The most commonly encountered symptoms of canine gastroenteritis are vomiting and diarrhea. Vomiting is seen as the forceful expulsion of the stomach contents through the mouth of the dog. Diarrhea is defined as the frequent passing of loose or watery feces.

Other symptoms seen will vary depending on the cause of the gastroenteritis.

• Fever may be present in viral or bacterial cases of gastroenteritis.
• Dogs suffering from gastroenteritis may have a decreased appetite or lack of appetite.
• Dogs with canine gastroenteritis may be nauseous.
• Dehydration may be present in more severe cases as a result of fluid loss through ongoing vomiting and diarrhea.
• Diarrhea may be bloody in some diseases (parvovirus, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis).
• Bloody feces may also result from irritation to the lower intestinal tract.
• Vomit may appear as partially digested food or as a yellow bile-tinged product. Blood may sometimes be seen in the vomit of dogs with gastroenteritis as well.
• Other symptoms specific to the individual cause of the gastroenteritis may be seen, such as icterus (yellowing of the gums and skin) in cases of liver disease.

 

Treating Canine Gastroenteritis

Treatment for canine gastroenteritis will vary depending on the cause of the disease and the severity of the disease. Mild, uncomplicated cases of vomiting and diarrhea may be treatable at home. More serious disease may require veterinary intervention.

For dogs which are vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, the first thing the pet owner should do is remove all food and water. After 6-8 hours, water may be introduced in small amounts if the dog is no longer vomiting. At this point, water should be offered every 1-2 hours in small quantities (approximately 1 tsp per pound of body weight). If the dog is able to take in water without further vomiting, small quantities of a bland diet can be introduced. Appropriate bland diets may consist of lean cooked hamburger mixed together with boiled rice or broiled chicken mixed with boiled rice.

Dog owners with dogs suffering from gastroenteritis should keep in mind that dehydration can occur very quickly when symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea are occurring and dehydration can make the situation dangerous for the pet. This is especially true for very young animals and older dogs which may be debilitated or fragile. Veterinary care should be sought quickly for dogs which seem depressed or weak or otherwise act ill or which continue to vomit or experience diarrhea for more than 6-8 hours.

Canine gastroenteritis is probably the most common cause of vomiting and diarrhea seen in dogs. Caused by many different things, gastroenteritis can range from being mild to severe for the individual dog and dog owners are advised to seek veterinary intervention for dogs which act sick or which have symptoms that do not resolve in a reasonable length of time.

Want to book an appointment for a human? Contact Dr. Vikram Tarugu’s Office.

 

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Omphalocele and Gastroschisis: Congenital Abdominal Wall Defects in Infants

Omphalocele and gastroschisis are two types of birth defects that can occur in newborns. They are congenital abnormalities of the abdominal wall. These defects happen when the abdominal wall and membrane, which normally enclose the bowel inside the abdomen, form improperly and parts of the bowel protrude or extend outside the newborn’s body. Body organs can also be affected by these conditions. Both omphalocele and gastroschisis can be repaired with surgery.

What is Omphalocele?

In a newborn with this abnormality, the intestines or other body organs extend outside the infant’s abdominal cavity through an opening in the area of the umbilical cord. The protruding intestines or organs are covered with a thin-like membrane.

The cause for an omphalocele is unknown. However, an omphalocele can occur as the fetus develops inside the mother’s uterus. As the fetus grows during the first trimester of pregnancy, the developing intestines extend into the umbilical cord and should return to the abdomen by the eleventh week of fetal development. An omphalocele occurs when muscles in the abdominal wall fail to close properly and intestines do not return to the abdominal cavity. An omphalocele can be either small or large depending on the amount of intestines, or other organs like the liver that are outside this cavity.

The National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Health report that about 25 to 40 percent of newborns with an omphalocele also have other birth defects. These problems can include chromosomal abnormalities, malformation of the heart, and a condition called Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.

What is Gastroschisis?

With gastroschisis, there is also an opening in the abdominal wall through which internal organs spill out of the abdominal cavity. The opening develops in the same manner as with an omphalocele, and the opening can also be small or large. However, in newborns with gastroschisis, the aperture is usually located on the right side of the umbilical cord and the organs are not covered with a membrane. Since the organs are uncovered in the amniotic fluid, there is a greater chance of infection or damage to them.

As with omphalocele, the cause for gastroschisis is also unknown; however, most infants born with this condition are born to young women who are either in their late teens or early twenties. According to the Children’s Hospital Boston, this condition is observed in approximately one out of five thousand infants.

How are Omphalocele and Gastroschisis Diagnosed?

During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, an omphalocele is usually detected with ultrasound testing. Once this condition is diagnosed, a fetal echocardiogram can be performed to check for heart abnormalities.

Gastroschisis can be detected prenatally during the second trimester of pregnancy. If the mother’s alpha-fetoprotein levels are found to be high, an ultrasound test can confirm this abnormality in the fetus.

Treatment of Omphalocele and Gastroschisis

Omphalocele and gastroschisis require surgical repair once the child is born. Treatment for an omphalocele can depend on a number of factors that can include the severity and size of the abnormality, presence of other abnormalities like heart problems, and the infant’s overall health.

Infants born with gastroschisis can have problems with the bowel because of prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid. This can cause inflammation or stretching of the bowel. There are also other problems associated with gastroschisis such as twisting of the bowel. When considering treatment options, the size of the gastroschisis is another important factor.

There are two types of repair surgery possible for both omphalocele and gastroschisis. Surgery can be performed either in a single operation or in stages. For a small omphalocele or gastroschisis without other complications, surgery is usually performed immediately to return the exposed organs into the abdominal cavity and close the opening.

When the gastroschisis or omphalocele is large or involves other organs, the surgery is performed in stages over a period of a few days. Staged repair surgeries are required because a newborn’s abdomen may be small or underdeveloped.

Long-Term Effects

The long-term result of gastroschisis and omphalocele surgical repairs can be good for infants with small defects. However, the prognosis may not be the same for infants born with an omphalocele and have other birth defects. Likewise, the prognosis for children born with a gastroschisis can depend on the damages suffered by the bowel. One possible complication of gastroschisis is a condition called short bowel or short-gut syndrome.

In these cases, infants may need other surgeries and monitoring by a pediatrician.

Dr. Vikram Tarugu is a board certified gastroenterologist serving Florida residents and visitors. Call him to schedule your next colonoscopy, EGD, Endoscopic Ultrasound procedure.

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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Common Acidic Condition

Now and then, one may experience a burning or aching pain at the lower part of the chest, particularly after meals. This symptom known as heartburn is all too common. This is the feeling that would prompt taking antacids or other medications for relief. The process of gastroesophageal reflux disease can be simple or complex.

Pathophysiology and Symptoms

The stomach is normally closed off from the esophagus by the lower esophageal sphincter. This way, stomach acid cannot enter the esophagus. However, many factors can relax this sphincter. They include lying down too soon after a meal, fatty foods, alcohol, and tobacco. In addition, certain medications have been linked to GERD, either by relaxing the sphincter (e.g., calcium channel blockers) or directly injuring the esophagus (e.g., ibuprofen). There are also anatomical risk factors, like obesity since pressure from abdominal fat can push stomach contents upward.

The result is the symptom known as heartburn. With progression of GERD, there can be difficulty swallowing with food getting stuck and even pain with swallowing. This is because of damage to the esophageal lining by acid. In more severe cases, refluxed stomach contents can reach the throat and get into the trachea and lungs. Though uncommon, this can cause laryngitis and pneumonia.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A physician can diagnose GERD easily based on the symptoms and the presence of risk factors. Testing is rarely needed. Sometimes, the doctor can give a trial of medications for GERD to see if symptoms are relieved with them. If they are, chances are that the pain is from acid reflux.

The first step in treating acid reflux is to minimize the risk factors. Besides cutting down on foods and beverages that worsen it, one should avoid lying down within two to three hours after a meal. If lying flat doesn’t help regardless, one can try sleeping with the head of the bed elevated so that the esophagus is tilted downward and not horizontal. For obese patients, losing weight can also help.

Medications for GERD include antacids (e.g., Mylanta), histamine-receptor blockers (e.g., Pepcid, Zantac), and proton-pump inhibitors (e.g., Prilosec, Nexium). If symptoms are persistent despite medical treatment, then the last option is surgical. A surgical procedure called Nissen fundoplication can be done where the topmost part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus, creating a makeshift sphincter. While it can be effective, there is a risk of it working too well so that it’s difficult to belch or vomit.

Barrett’s Esophagus

Normally, the cells lining the esophagus are stratified squamous cells, which are flattened cells forming multiple layers to withstand the mechanical forces of swallowed food. The cells in the stomach are columnar, shaped like columns and able to secrete acid. When there is acid reflux, the acidic environment of the stomach is introduced into the esophagus. With chronic acid exposure, there is a process in response where the esophageal cells transform into cells similar to those in the stomach. The result is called Barrett’s esophagus.

The significance of this is its relation to esophageal cancer. The risk for transformation to adenocarcinoma of the esophagus is less than 1% every year but it can be as high as 5% or even 10% with long-term GERD. High-risk patients can be screened for esophageal cancer with endoscopy and biopsy of the esophagus. Surgery is indicated once there is adenocarcinoma or if the biopsy shows high risk of transformation into a malignant tumor.

Dr. Tarugu has won many awards for safety and timeliness. Visit his center today and see why so many are calling him “The Best Gastroenterologist in Florida“!

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Acute Gastritis of the Stomach: Herbal Remedies Proven to Ease Gastritis Symptoms

Gastritis is the acute inflammation and congestion of the mucous membranes that line the walls of the stomach. Gastritis is a very common complaint and symptoms can come on suddenly. They usually consist of headache, nausea, faintness, and sometimes pain in the stomach or back. The tongue is usually coated,and with severe cases ulcers may erupt around the mouth. Belching, thirst, diarrhea or constipation can also accompany acute gastritis.

Cause of Gastritis to Consider

There are varied reasons for gastritis or indigestion and may include:

• eating while emotionally upset can cause stomach pain
• eating too fast, not chewing food thoroughly
• eating too many combinations of food at one meal
• drinking too much fluid while eating
• some drugs such as aspirin can bring on an attack
• people who lack digestive enzymes will suffer from gastritis
• use of antacids can cause constipation and nutritional deficiencies
• studies on H.pylori have shown a correlation with acute and chronic gastritis

Herbal Remedies for Gastritis

Once the cause for the indigestion has been found, there are many herbs that can be used. The following four herbs are ones that most people have stocked in their kitchens: dill, parsley, peppermint and rosemary.

1. Dill is an ancient herb that held an honored place in ancient Rome warding off witches’ spells. Today, it is used medicinally for gastritis symptoms: indigestion, cramps and gas.
2. Parsley was known to the ancient Greeks and Romans as a potent medicinal herb for easing indigestion and stomach pain. All parts of the herb have essential oils which have a stimulating effect on the intestines. The seeds and leaves improve the appetite, promoting better digestion.
3. Peppermint was identified in England in 1696. Its herbal qualities are well documented in soothing the muscles and lining of the colon. Peppermint contains many essential oils but the most important one is menthol which has an antispasmodic quality. When taken internally, it can ease stomach pain and intestinal inflammation. It promotes production and flow of bile, easing indigestion.
4. Rosemary is a Mediterranean herb with an ancient medicinal history. Its essential oils also are antispasmodic, relieving bloating and cramps associated with acute gastritis.

In Addition to Herbs, Lifestyle Modifications Recommended for Gastritis

Along with herbal remedies, gastritis can be prevented or relieved by changing certain lifestyle habits. It’s always best to alleviate the cause of symptoms wherever possible. Many people today are caught up into stressful, hurried lives. However, re-educating oneself to eat only when relaxed, to eat moderate amounts, avoiding too many different foods at the same meal, and to chew food thoroughly will prevent acute gastritis symptoms. Ready to schedule a colonoscopy?  Contact Dr. Tarugu’s Office to set an appointment.

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Increasing Colon Cancer Survivability with Diet

Wasting is one of the most distressing and common complications of living with cancer. In plain and simple terms, cancer can lead to starvation. Far too often, medical teams treat wasting as an unavoidable complication of the later stages of the disease. What physicians are beginning to realize, however, is that treating wasting complications earlier in the course of treatment can lead to longer life and even remission.

Wasting can be part of paraneoplastic syndrome, a combination of fever, loss of appetite, appearance of white hard bumps on the skin, and an accelerated metabolism throughout the body. This form of wasting, called cachexia, is due to the body’s immune response to the cancer itself.

And the immune system itself can be the cause of cachexia. Tumor-necrosis factors (TNFs) from the immune system attack and kill cancer cells. These substances kill cancer, but increase metabolism throughout the body. At the same time, they stimulate the release of serotonin.

Serotonin is a well-known regulator of mood. A boost of serotonin in the brain can make you feel happier. The brain, however, is not the only site in the body where serotonin is made.

Serotonin produced in the gastrointestinal tract induces nausea with alternating constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. When this happens to someone who has cancer, appetite and ability to digest food are reduced at very time nutritional needs begin to skyrocket.

Wasting Isn’t the Same as Starvation

In simple starvation, fat is consumed before the body begins to break down muscle and vital organs. In cachexia caused by cancer, the body gets its energy needs equally from fat and the destruction of healthy tissues.

Cachexia occurs with about 15 to 20 per cent of all cancers. It is not unusual for the symptoms of cachexia to occur before the cancer itself is detectable. Any cancer may cause any symptom of cachexia, but the most common indications are:

• Itching,
• Arthritis,
• Changes in taste and smell,
• Watery diarrhea, and
• Joint pain.

These symptoms can, of course, be caused by any of a multitude of health conditions that are not cancer. Sometimes, however, they are a signal that cancer care by a physician and the patient’s own careful attention to diet are needed right now.

Increasing Survivability of Colon Cancer by Preventing Wasting

The single most important way to prevent wasting and to counteract cachexia to eat a combination of protein, carbohydrate, and healthy fats whenever you can. Cancer is never a signal you need to go on a diet.

It is especially important to avoid eating just carbohydrate, for instance, crackers and sweetened beverages if you possibly can. On the other hand, it is also best to avoid eating your favorite foods on those days you get chemotherapy. You do not want to associate bad memories with your favorite foods.

Using High-Protein Drinks

High-protein drinks are an excellent way to get needed macronutrients, and since they are usually not a favorite food, there is no risk to appetite in the future if they are consumed during chemotherapy. Their nutrients are readily available, so the body does not have to expend the 5 to 10 per cent of total calories normally needed to digest food.

Some high-protein drinks, such as Boost and Ensure, also provide a large part of the magnesium cells need synthesize new DNA. Magnesium deficiency is also implicated as a cause of the overproduction of the TNF that causes tissue destruction.

Supplemental Magnesium

Take supplemental magnesium chloride (up to 600 milligrams a day), but only an extended-release supplement, and only if you do not suffer diarrhea. It is also important to avoid any formula that contains ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate, since this amino acid requires extra glucose in the bloodstream to be absorbed into the muscles that need it.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids plus vitamin E also reduce wasting in cancer patients, especially when cancer has metastisized to the pancreas. A study at the Tumor Biology Center in Freiburg, Germany found that just a single 1.5 fish oil capsule a day for six weeks was enough to stop weight loss (and support an average 0.6 per cent weight gain) in 17 cancer patients.

Laboratory studies with animals suggest that an even better combination is high protein, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, and supplementing with the amino acid leucine. This amino acid is most highly concentrated in tofu, spirulina, egg white, and cod, as well as an number of foods (pork rinds, beluga caviar, dried seal meat, Gruyere cheese, bacon) that are not advisable in most cancer diet

Still better is a combination of high protein, leucine, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, and “dense” energy foods. In this case, as hard as it may be to accept, the dense energy of choice is sugar. In a clinical trial involving 200 patients and investigators from Australia, Canada, Europe, and the USA, scientists found that pancreatic cancer patients, who usually suffer severe weight loss, were able to stop weight loss and even gain weight if they were given not just the omega-3 fatty acids or the amino acids or the calories they needed, but all three. In this clinical trial, only the combination of all the macronutrients the body needs had a lasting effect.

Getting at least 2,000 milligrams (two capsules) of EPA from fish oil was associated with stabilizing weight, and higher levels of EPA were associated with gaining weight, provided the patient was able to consume 1,500 or more calories per day.

Contact Dr. Tarugu at GastroinFlorida.com to schedule your next exam.

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Colon Cancer Survival: Learn to Detect Colon Cancer Symptoms

The colon cancer survival rate is increasing due to the success of new treatments. According to a study in The Journal of Clinical Oncology, 30 percent of colon cancer patients are living for at least five years after their diagnoses. Twenty years ago, the five year colon cancer survival rate was just 8 percent.

Early detection can also improve colon cancer survival rates. Colon cancer occurs in the lower portion of the digestive system, known as the large intestine. Cancer that occurs in the last six inches of the colon is called rectal cancer. These two cancers are commonly called colorectal cancer. Colon cancer can start out as benign polyps. These polyps can eventually become cancerous and turn into colon cancer, according to Mayo Clinic.

Recognizing colon cancer symptoms can also increase a patient’s chances for survival. Colon cancer causes abdominal pain or gas, and bloody stools. Other signs of colon cancer include constant cramping, diarrhea or constipation, unexplained weight loss, pain during bowel movements, and fatigue. A person should consult a doctor after experiencing the first symptoms of colon cancer.

Vitamin D Increases Colon Cancer Survival

A diet containing Vitamin D may help improve colon cancer survival rates. Researchers involved in a study published in The Journal of Clinical Oncology came to this conclusion after analyzing 304 colon cancer patients from 1991 until 2002. Researchers looked at the patients’ blood levels to determine how much vitamin D, if any, they had in their systems. They then categorized the patients based on their vitamin D levels.

According to the study, the patients with the highest levels of vitamin D were nearly 50 percent less likely to succumb to any illness, including colon cancer. Furthermore, their risk of dying from colon cancer was nearly 40 percent lower. Researchers say that patients who are found to have symptoms of colon cancer should consult their doctors about adding vitamin D supplements to their diet.

Aspirin Helps Prevent Colon Cancer

Research suggests that people who take aspirin regularly are less likely to develop polyps. This is very important since polyps are among the leading colon cancer causes. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine  suggests that daily aspirin consumption can reduce a person’s risk for colon cancer by as much as 35 percent.

The National Cancer Institute has supported other studies that indicate that people who take aspirin and similar medications for arthritis and other conditions have fewer incidents of polyps and colorectal cancer. As a result of the findings, researchers conclude that people who are at risk for colon cancer should include aspirin as part of their prevention efforts.

Contact a gastroenterologist near you to schedule an exam. Dr. Vikram Tarugu would love to see you at his center if you are a Florida resident or visiting.

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