Gastroenterology Services
Conditions We Treat
Dr. Pudhota evaluates and treats a wide range of digestive and liver conditions. Below is an overview of common concerns managed at Summit Gastroenterology.
Note: The information below is for general educational purposes only and does not replace a personal evaluation by your physician. If you have concerns about your health, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.
Conditions
Comprehensive Digestive Health Care
From common GI complaints to complex chronic conditions, our practice provides thoughtful, evidence-based evaluation and treatment.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. It is one of the most common digestive conditions and is very treatable with the right care.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Heartburn or burning chest pain
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
Abdominal pain can range from mild discomfort to severe cramping and may stem from many different digestive causes. A thorough evaluation helps identify the underlying condition and guide the most effective treatment.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Persistent or recurring stomach pain
- Cramping or pressure
- Pain associated with meals or bowel movements
- Bloating with pain
Bloating (the feeling of fullness, tightness, or distension in the abdomen) is a common complaint that can have many causes, from dietary factors to underlying GI conditions. Identifying the root cause leads to lasting relief.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Abdominal fullness or pressure
- Visible abdominal distension
- Excessive gas
- Discomfort after eating
Constipation is characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, or hard stools. When constipation is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, a GI evaluation is recommended.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Fewer than three bowel movements per week
- Hard or lumpy stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
Chronic or recurring diarrhea may signal an underlying digestive condition that deserves medical attention. Evaluation helps distinguish between common causes and more complex conditions requiring treatment.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Loose or watery stools
- Frequent urgent bowel movements
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea associated with diarrhea
IBS is a common disorder that affects the large intestine, causing a mix of symptoms including cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. While not dangerous, IBS can significantly impact quality of life and is very manageable with the right support.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Abdominal cramping or pain
- Bloating and gas
- Alternating constipation and diarrhea
- Mucus in the stool
Inflammatory bowel disease includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, conditions that cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Early diagnosis and ongoing management are key to helping patients live well.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Persistent diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue and fever
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus, often causing discomfort, bleeding, or itching. They are very common and highly treatable, including with in-office procedures.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Rectal bleeding during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around the anus
Rectal bleeding (whether noticed in the toilet, on toilet paper, or in the stool) should always be evaluated by a physician. While it often has a benign cause, a proper evaluation rules out more serious conditions.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Blood in the stool
- Bright red blood on toilet paper
- Dark or tarry stools
- Blood in the toilet bowl
Iron-deficiency anemia can sometimes be caused by slow bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. A GI evaluation helps locate the source and address both the anemia and its underlying cause.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pallor (pale skin)
- Shortness of breath
- History of low iron or blood counts
Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, can be a sign of esophageal conditions ranging from inflammation to structural changes. An upper endoscopy or other evaluation can help identify and address the cause.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest
- Pain when swallowing
- Regurgitation of food
- Coughing or choking during meals
Colon polyps are small growths that form on the inner lining of the large intestine. Most polyps are benign, but some can develop into colon cancer over time. Colonoscopy allows polyps to be found and removed before they become a problem.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Often no symptoms
- Rectal bleeding
- Change in bowel habits
- Abdominal pain (in some cases)
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early. Routine colonoscopy screening can detect polyps and early cancers, dramatically improving outcomes. Screening is recommended beginning at age 45 for average-risk adults.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Screening is recommended even without symptoms
- Change in bowel habits
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Family history of colon cancer or polyps
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by H. pylori infection, NSAID use, or other factors. It can cause significant discomfort but responds well to targeted treatment.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Burning or gnawing stomach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling full quickly
- Loss of appetite
Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach, upper small intestine, or esophagus. They are most commonly caused by H. pylori infection or long-term use of NSAIDs and are very treatable.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Burning stomach pain
- Pain that improves or worsens with eating
- Nausea
- Bloating or belching
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When untreated, it damages the small intestine. A gluten-free diet is the cornerstone of treatment.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Diarrhea and bloating after eating gluten
- Abdominal pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue, anemia, or nutritional deficiencies
The liver plays a critical role in overall digestive health. Concerns such as abnormal liver enzymes, fatty liver disease, or other liver-related issues can be evaluated and managed in a gastroenterology setting.
Common Reasons for Evaluation
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Abdominal discomfort in the right side
- Fatigue or jaundice
- History of liver disease or hepatitis
Not Sure If We Can Help?
If you are experiencing digestive symptoms that are not listed here, we encourage you to call our office. Dr. Pudhota evaluates a broad range of GI concerns and will be happy to discuss whether our practice is the right fit for your needs.
Ready to Be Evaluated?
Call our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pudhota. We are here to help.
