Memorial Hospital of Tampa

Dissecting If you continually struggle with tummy troubles, reevaluate your diet and other lifestyle factors that could be contributing to these problems. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, digestive diseases affect approximately 60 to 70 million Americans. Whether your gastrointestinal disorder is as common as constipation or as serious as liver disease, digestive problems affect people of all ages. "Our digestive patterns change as we age, but it's important to constantly monitor bowel movements, food intolerance or other persistent digestive problems," says John Stauffer, M.D., F.A.C.P., Gastroenterologist at Memorial Hospital of Tampa. "Most healthy people don't experience regular heartburn or sporadic bowel function. If you suffer from constipation, diarrhea, excessive gas or other digestive issues lasting longer than one to two days, seek immediate medical attention." TAKING A CLOSER LOOK Although examining your bowel function may not seem like a high priority, it is actually quite important to evaluate your own stool. "Look for noticeable changes in your stool's color and shape," says Dr. Stauffer. "Black or dark stools often indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding, whereas bright red blood is a sign of colon bleeding." Depending on your age, medical history and other factors, blood in your stool or rectal bleeding may be attributed to stomach ulcers, anal fissures or anti-inflammatory medication. Although there may be an underlying reason for your bleeding, always discuss the presence of blood in your stools with your primary care provider to determine whether certain screenings may be right for you. PREVENTIVE CARE According to the American Cancer Society, excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and women in the United States. "It's important to undergo a colonoscopy by age 50, or earlier if you've had a history of colon polyps," says Robert Theobald, D.O., Proctologist at Comprehensive Colorectal Care, PA. "Colon cancer can strike with no warning symptoms—but if detected in its earliest stages, it's very treatable." KEEPING PAIN AWAY Colorectal disorders can be uncomfortable for patients to discuss, and many also cause extreme pain. Procedures are available to address a number of these conditions, including rectal bleeding, anal fissures and hemorrhoids. "While proctologists treat symptoms surgically, our goal is to treat problems as minimally invasively as possible," says Dr. Theobald. "We offer relief from colorectal issues through a variety of painless procedures, such as infrared coagulation for hemorrhoids." To learn more about digestive health services at Memorial Hospital of Tampa, visit MemorialHospitalTampa.com. You Are What You Eat? Eating processed foods and living a sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect your digestive system. Implementing a diet rich in fiber, vitamins and calcium can positively change the course of your digestive health. Probiotics found in certain cheeses, yogurts and other foods also help to eliminate harmful bacteria living in the intestines. "Most digestive problems can be cured by simply maintaining a healthy diet and a consistent exercise program," says Morris Hanan, M.D., Gastroenterologist at Memorial Hospital of Tampa. "To notice significant changes in your digestion, consume at least 30 grams of fiber per day, and work out regularly." You may notice that certain spicy or greasy foods leave you feeling a little queasy, a problem that is fairly normal. However, symptoms such as vomiting, extreme abdominal pain or severe bloating often signify a more serious medical issue. About the Doc Robert Theobald, D.O. Comprehensive Colorectal Care, PA 3109 West Swann Avenue Tampa, FL 33603 (813) 875-2600 Medical school: A.T. Still University Residency: Dayton Ohio Grandview Medical Center About the Doc Morris Hanan, M.D. Memorial Hospital of Tampa 508 South Habana Avenue, Suite 260 Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 876-9191 Medical school: University of Alabama Residency: University of California, Irvine Fellowship: University of California, Irvine About the Doc John Stauffer, M.D., F.A.C.P. Memorial Hospital of Tampa 2919 West Swann Avenue, Suite 205 Tampa, FL 33609 (813) 870-3971 Medical school: Cornell Medical School Residency: New York Hospital and University of California, San Francisco Fellowship: University of California, San Francisco Wellness Today 3

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