Your gastroenterologists in Hialeah, Coral Gables, Pembroke Pines and Kendall, FL, at Digestive Medicine Associates treat health conditions and diseases that affect your digestive system. They can help you:

Find out why you've been having digestive issues

The gastroenterologist can determine why you're experiencing:

• Acid reflux
• Heartburn
• Abdominal pain
• Frequent gas or belching
• Bloating or cramping
• Blood in your stool
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Change in bowel habits
• Decreased appetite
• Unexplained weight loss

During your appointment at the gastroenterology office in Hialeah, Coral Gables, Pembroke Pines or Kendall, FL, your gastroenterologist will perform an examination, review your medical history and discuss your symptoms. Based on the results of the visit and any tests that may be ordered, your doctor can prescribe helpful medications and treatments.

Monitor chronic conditions and diseases

Appointments with the gastroenterologist also help you manage chronic diseases and conditions, including:

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Hepatitis
• Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD)
• Ulcers
• Gallbladder disease
• Pancreatitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Celiac disease
• Hiatal hernia
• Gastroparesis
• Diverticulitis

Protect your health with a colonoscopy

If you're 45 or older, it's time to schedule a colonoscopy. This important test helps your gastroenterologist spot signs of colon cancer, a type of cancer that's more likely to occur as you get older.

During a colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist inserts a thin, flexible scope into your anus, then slowly passes it through your rectum and large intestine (colon). A miniature camera attached to the scope sends real-time images of your colon to a digital screen. As your gastroenterologist moves the scope through the colon, he or she looks for small growths called polyps that can form in the lining.

If you do have any growths, they'll be removed during the colonoscopy and sent to a laboratory for testing. Polyps can be benign (non-cancerous), pre-cancerous or cancerous. Colonoscopies help ensure that you receive prompt treatment should you ever develop colon cancer. If your colonoscopy is normal, you won't need another screening for 10 years in most cases.

Are you ready to make an appointment with your Hialeah, Coral Gables, Pembroke Pines and Kendall, FL, gastroenterologists at Digestive Medicine Associates? Call (305) 822-4107 to reach the Hialeah/Miami Lakes, Pembroke Pines, Coral Gables and Kendall office or (305) 512-8220 for the surgery center in Hialeah.