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Gastroenterology

Gastroenterologists in East Texas

At UT Health East Texas Digestive Disease Center, we are dedicated to providing top-tier gastrointestinal (GI) care. Our team includes board-certified gastroenterologists, internists, and surgeons, all trained to offer cutting-edge digestive health treatments. Supported by certified gastroenterology nurses and skilled technicians, our approach to digestive disorder care ensures comprehensive management of a wide array of GI conditions. Whether you need a routine colonoscopy to detect possible colon cancer or treatment for Crohn’s disease or pancreatitis, our GI care team is here to enhance your well-being and health outcomes.

GI conditions we treat

Our GI disease specialists provide comprehensive treatments to care for a wide range of digestive health conditions and conditions, including:

  • Achalasia, dysphasia and other swallowing disorders
  • Barrett’s esophagus
  • Celiac disease
  • Cirrhosis
  • Colon polyps and colon cancer
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Gallbladder and biliary tract disease
  • Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
  • Hepatitis and liver diseases
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Pancreatitis
  • Peptic ulcer disease
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Ulcerative colitis

With routine screenings, physicians can often find illnesses or conditions before symptoms become apparent. Early detection is a key factor in treating digestive diseases. Talk to your doctor about which screenings are right for you.

Colon cancer screening

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, yet it can often be prevented through proper screening. Colorectal cancer often starts in the large intestine as a polyp, a small abnormal growth on the inner lining of the colon. Symptoms can be nonspecific, such as general abdominal discomfort or changes in bowel habits, but do not necessarily indicate cancer is present.

According to the American Cancer Society, the recommended age to start regular colorectal screening is 45, or earlier for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or a predisposing, inherited genetic condition. Risk factors for developing colon polyps include inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise and eating a high-fat diet.

A colonoscopy is the best way to detect colorectal cancer. This examines the entire large intestine and detects the presence of polyps that could be or possibly become cancerous. When discovered early, colon cancer is highly treatable, so colonoscopy screening is crucial.

Screenings are recommended for patients who have the following symptoms:

  • Blood in the stool
  • Change in bowel habits or lower abdominal cramping
  • Family history of colon cancer and over age 40
  • Over age 45 (even without symptoms)
  • Rectal bleeding

To schedule a colonoscopy, please call 903-596-DOCS.

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