Gas & Bloating Management
What Causes Gas & Bloating? Excess intestinal gas from swallowed air or bacterial fermentation of undigested carbohydrates. Why Do I Need Treatment? Persistent bloating can cause discomfort, distension, and social embarrassment. Management Dietary: Low-FODMAP diet, avoid carbonated drinks, chew slowly. Medications: Simethicone, rifaximin for suspected SIBO, probiotics. Behavioral: Mindful eating, small frequent meals. What Can […]
Non-Erosive Reflux Disease (NERD)
What Is NERD? A subtype of GERD with typical reflux symptoms but no visible esophageal erosions on endoscopy. Why Do I Need Treatment? Though non-erosive, NERD significantly impacts quality of life and may progress without therapy. Treatment PPI once daily for 8–12 weeks. Adjunct: alginate formulations, H2 blockers at night. Lifestyle: same as GERD. What […]
Reflux (GERD) Management
What Is GERD? Gastroesophageal reflux disease is chronic backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing heartburn and potential esophageal injury. Why Do I Need Treatment? Untreated GERD can lead to esophagitis, strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, and increased cancer risk. Treatment Approach Lifestyle: Weight loss, head-of-bed elevation, avoid triggers (spicy foods, caffeine). Medical: Antacids for mild […]
Hiatus Hernia Management
What Is Hiatus Hernia? Protrusion of the stomach through the diaphragmatic hiatus into the chest, often causing reflux. Why Do I Need Treatment? Symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and dysphagia. How Should I Prepare? Evaluation: Endoscopy, contrast swallow, or manometry. Medications: Trial of PPIs and lifestyle modification first. Treatment Options Medical: PPIs, H2 blockers, […]
Hernia Repair Surgery
What Is Hernia Repair? Surgical correction of a defect in the abdominal wall (inguinal, umbilical, incisional, or hiatal hernia). Why Do I Need It? Indications include: Pain or discomfort Risk of incarceration/strangulation Cosmetic or functional concerns How Should I Prepare? Pre-op Tests: Blood work, ECG if >50 years or cardiac risk. Fasting: NPO after midnight. […]
Gallstone Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
What Is Gallstone Surgery? Removal of the gallbladder (laparoscopic or open) to treat symptomatic gallstones, cholecystitis, or biliary colic. Why Do I Need It? Indications include: Recurrent biliary colic Acute or chronic cholecystitis Choledocholithiasis requiring bile‐duct clearance How Should I Prepare? Pre-op Tests: LFTs, ultrasound. Fasting: NPO from midnight before surgery. Medication Review: Stop anticoagulants […]
Weight Loss Surgery (Bariatric Surgery)
What Is Bariatric Surgery? Surgical procedures (RYGB, sleeve gastrectomy) that alter stomach/intestine anatomy to induce significant weight loss and improve metabolic health. Why Do I Need It? Recommended when: BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with obesity-related comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension) Failed medical weight‐loss programs How Should I Prepare? Multidisciplinary Evaluation: Nutritionist, psychologist, cardiology, anesthesia. Pre-op Diet: […]
Whipple Surgery (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)
What Is the Whipple Procedure? A complex operation removing the pancreatic head, duodenum, gallbladder, and part of the bile duct, with reconstruction of digestive tract continuity. Why Do I Need It? Indicated for tumors in the pancreatic head or periampullary region without extensive vessel involvement or metastasis. How Should I Prepare? Assessment: Detailed imaging (CT/MRI), […]
Pancreatic Cancer Surgery
What Is Pancreatic Cancer Surgery? Operative removal of pancreatic tumors, including distal pancreatectomy or total pancreatectomy, to manage localized pancreatic cancer. Why Do I Need It? Surgery is recommended if imaging shows: Tumor confined to the pancreatic body/tail (distal) or head (Whipple) No major vessel involvement or distant metastases How Should I Prepare? Pre-op Tests: […]
Gallbladder Cancer Surgery
What Is Gallbladder Cancer Surgery? Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) plus surrounding tissue to treat malignancy detected in or around the gallbladder. Why Do I Need It? You may be advised to have surgery if imaging or biopsy confirms gallbladder cancer, especially if: Cancer is confined to the gallbladder wall (T1 or T2 stage) […]
