Ten Tips to Avoid Holiday Heartburn

The holidays are upon us! This means festive gatherings with family and friends and a plethora of tasty treats to eat and drink. It also might mean a bad case of heartburn for those with stomach sensitivities as well as those who simply choose to overdo it a bit.  Here are ten tips to help minimize the discomfort of heartburn during your holiday festivities.

1.      Graze – Take small portions and then step away from the snack table. Don’t pile your plate high and consider skipping a second helping.

2.      Avoid rich foods – Fatty foods tend to be a trigger for many people. Avoid these options and go for a leaner alternative.

3.      Skip the dessert – Often this final step in the celebration process is what puts you over the edge and causes your heartburn to flare up. Consider skipping the after dinner sweets or consider a lighter option such as angel food cake or low acid fruit.

4.      Eat ahead – Consider having a small healthy snack before you head out to holiday party. Being too hungry when you get to the festivities could cause you to

5.      over indulge.

6.      Enjoy slowly – Don’t rush through your meal. Take time to enjoy both the food and the company.

7.      Move around – Moving around allows you to burn up the extra calories you just ate and keeps stomach acid from backing up into your esophagus.

8.      Avoid acidic foods – Fruits, while good for you,  can be highly acidic and can create stomach upset. Eat acidic foods in moderation or avoid them completely.

9.      Don’t drink – Avoid alcohol or drink in moderation. Excess alcohol can cause stomach acid to build up.

10.   Plan ahead – If you are prone to heartburn, be sure to bring any medications you might need to provide relief.

11.   Talk to your doctor – If you suffer from frequent heartburn, it could be more than just a case of over-indulging. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.

Season’s greetings from Dr. Justin McCarthy and his entire staff. If you or someone you know suffers from frequent discomfort caused by heartburn, contact him today at (806) 761-0722. Dr. McCarthy has been providing compassionate gastroenterology care to patients in Lubbock, Texas and surrounding communities since 1992.

Bladder Health Month Tips

November helps serve as a helpful reminder to keep your bladder healthy before a problem occurs. Your bladder looks like a deflated balloon that expands as it fills with urine. The bladder can hold about 400-600 milliliters of urine depending on age. When it is full, the bladder is the size and shape of a pear.  

Here are some tips to keep your bladder healthy:

1. 4-8 trips to the bathroom daily are normal. Any more than this could point to a problem that should be addressed with a doctor.
2. Drink 6 to 8 cups of water daily
3. Coffee, tea, alcohol, and soda lead to increased bladder activity. Reduce consumption of these when possible.
4. Drink cranberry juice instead! Ingredients in the juice can keep bacteria from living in the urinary tract, preventing UTIs.
5. Make sure to take the time to completely empty your bladder when using the bathroom. If you don’t, this can lead to an infection.
6. Don’t smoke! Smoking increases the chance of bladder cancer among other cancers and conditions.

Some bladder issues throughout one’s life are a natural part of aging. Lowerurinary tract (LUTS) can cause trouble urinating, leaking urine, and more frequent urination. The most common issue in bladder health is bladder infections or UTI. This occurs when bacteria enter the bladder causing an infection. This will cause strong, sudden urination.

Bladder cancer is the 4^th most common cancer with 76,960 new cases estimated in 2016. The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. This usually leads to an early diagnosis and easier treatment.

If you have any concern regarding the health of your bladder seek the help of a professional. Dr. Justin H. McCarthy specializes in gastroenterology and other internal medicine. Mr. McCarthy is an affiliate of Covenant Medical Center and University of Medical Center. His office is located at 2424 50^th Street in Lubbock, Texas. The office is open from 8 am – 5 pm Monday through Thursday and 8 am – noon on Fridays. We are currently closed on weekends. To find out more about Dr. McCarthy’s services or to schedule an appointment call (806) 761-0722. 

Colonoscopy: A Life-Saving Test

Colonoscopies are an important part of routine preventative care in the United States. Most doctors recommend getting a colonoscopy roughly once every 10 years, beginning at age 50. Individuals who have a higher risk of colorectal cancer, or who have gastrointestinal symptoms, may need to be tested at a younger age, or more often. Although preparing for a colonoscopy and the procedure itself are generally seen as an inconvenience, screening for colorectal cancers has saved countless lives and prevented the progression of serious disease.

Colon Cancer: A slow but silent killer

The American Cancer Society estimates that roughly 1 in 21 men and 1 in 23 women in America will develop colorectal cancer, making it the second-most common cause of cancer-related death. Sadly, nearly 50,000 Americans die of colorectal cancer each year in the United States. The good news, however, is that death rates have been steadily falling thanks to preventative screening, early detection, and improved treatment. Colorectal cancers are difficult to prevent and detect in a timely manner without professional screening, because they usually cause very few symptoms early on.

Colonoscopy: How it saves lives

Colorectal tumors and polyps can take a long time to grow and spread. A polyp can take up to 15 years to turn into cancer. Small polyps found during a colonoscopy can be removed during the screening, before they have a chance to become cancerous. Even if early cancer is found during a colonoscopy, treatment and 5-year survival rates are up to 90%. However, once colon cancer spreads, it becomes very difficult to treat.

The Test: How it works

A colonoscopy is done by a doctor, usually a gastroenterologist, in a private room of a hospital or medical clinic. The test itself usually takes less than an hour. Medication is usually given to ease discomfort. The day before the test, the colon is prepped at home with special instructions for diet, liquid, and medication. This is important for the clearest view of the colon during the test and for the most accurate results.

A flexible tube is placed in the colon and air is blown into it to keep it open. Your doctor will study images from the inside of the colon and look for any areas of concern. To read further details about the test itself, visit the National Institutes of Health’s colonoscopy page.

A colonoscopy is an easy way to take proactive control of your health. Schedule your test with Dr. Justin McCarthy’s office at (806) 761-0722. Dr. McCarthy has been practicing gastroenterology and hepatology in Lubbock, Texas, since 1992. Visit his website, blog, or Facebook page to learn more about his practice, as well as more useful information about gastrointestinal health!

What is SIBO?

Issues of the small intestines can cause both physical and emotional discomfort as patients deal with its embarrassing symptoms. While there are many conditions that can cause intestinal issues, bacterial overgrowth can be a serious condition that requires proper diagnosis to be treated effectively. 

Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a proliferation of bacteria in the small intestines. It is typically caused by an intestinal obstruction, improper functioning of intestinal nerves or muscles, or blind loop syndrome (this happens when digested food slows or stops moving through part of the intestines). When these conditions occur, excess bacterium build up causes increased discomfort. 

Some of the most common symptoms of SIBO include:

•          Abdominal distention
•          Bloating
•         Abdominal tenderness or pain
•          Gas
•          Diarrhea
•          Weight loss
•         Vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Because many of the symptoms of SIBO are comparable to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) it is important for you to have special diagnostic testing to rule out excess bacteria overgrowth. One of the most common tests to diagnose SIBO is called a breath test. It is conducted by analyzing breath samples for excess hydrogen, methane or both. The test is simple, pain free and can be performed at a physician’s office. 

It includes the following steps:

1.      24-hours prior to the test – there are specific diet restriction prior to testing. The first 12 hours include a special diet while the second 12 is a complete fast.  You will be able to brush your teeth, but you are not to eat any food per the doctor’s orders.

2.      Control sample - Once at the testing location, the doctor will collect a control breath sample in a small balloon.

3.      Sugar ingestion- You will be asked to consume a small packet of test sugar (normally lactulose or glucose).

4.      Breath samples - For the next few hours, breath samples will be take every 15 to 20 minutes.

5.      Analysis - Breath samples will be sent to a laboratory to be analyzed for excess amounts of hydrogen and methane gases.

Once diagnosed, your doctor can determine the best course of treatment. Normally this includes a combination of antibiotics and probiotics. 

Are you or someone you know suffering from conditions similar to irritable bowel syndrome? Contact Dr. JustinMcCarthy, MD, for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Why Should I Be Concerned About H. Pylori?

On-going digestive issues such as H. Pylori can be overwhelming for the sufferer and often take time to diagnose because symptoms can mimic those of other gastrointestinal discomforts. H. pylori, or Helicobacter pylori, is a bacterium that can be found in the intestinal tract of humans. It is often dormant for an extended period of time, causing little to no issues or discomfort. H. pylori is thought to spread by unknowingly consuming food that has been contaminated with fecal matter.

Normally, the H. pylori bacterium enters the body in early childhood (before the age of 10). However, many people are not affected by an infection until adulthood. When an infection occurs, it causes a release of toxins that can create chronic inflammation of the stomach and small intestine lining leading to severe ulcerations.

The most common symptoms of H. pylori include:

• Abdominal pain and discomfort (normally upper abdomen)
• Bloating
• Lack of appetite or feeling full after consuming very small portions
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dark colored stool
• Low blood count (caused by ulcers)
• Fatigue

If your doctor suspects an H. pylori infection, he or she will test for the bacteria. This can be done through a blood test, urea breath test, stool test or stomach biopsy.

• Blood antibody test – During this test, a blood sample is drawn and tested in the laboratory for the antibodies the body produces to fight the infection. 
• Urea breath test – This test measures breath samples for the enzyme urease, which breaks down into ammonia and carbon. The patient is asked to swallow a urea tablet and the breath carbon dioxide output is measured.
• Stool antigen test – The patient is asked to supply a small stool sample which will be tested for the antigens the body produces to fight the infection.
• Stomach Biopsy – During this endoscopic procedure, a small sample of the stomach lining and small intestines is taken and tested for the presence of the bacterium. 

The only treatment for H. Pylori is antibiotic medications. Because of this, it is important to consult a trusted gastroenterologist who can administer the appropriate testing and treatment plan. If you or someone you know is suffering from the symptoms of H. pylori, contact Dr. Justin McCarthy today to schedule a test. For more information, visit our website or call 806-761-0722. 

July 28th is World Hepatitis Day

Living in the United States, Hepatitis is a disease that generally does not impact our daily lives.  Despite the fact that it is not always on our health radar, Hepatitis is a serious disease that should be at the forefront of everyone’s health concerns.

In the simplest of terms, viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. There are five different hepatitis viruses including hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineer and Medicine, “Viral hepatitis is the seventh leading cause of death in the world”.  Chronic viral hepatitis, of which hepatitis B and C are the most common forms, kills millions of people around the world each year.  Approximately 20,000 of these deaths occur in the United States. 

Some symptoms of Hepatitis include (although often there are no symptoms at the onset of the disease):

• Malaise
• Fatigue
• Reduced appetite
• Fever
• Muscle or joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Belly pain
• Darkened urine
• Light-colored stool
• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• Itchy skin
• Mental changes
• Internal bleeding

The most common ways this disease is transmitted is through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected person, or contact with water, food or other sources tainted with fecal matter from an individual carrying the disease. Treatment methods vary depending upon the type of hepatitis infection.

Vaccinations and proper hygiene are the most common ways to prevent most types of hepatitis infections (currently there is no vaccination for hepatitis C).  Additionally, if you know of a person who is infected with the virus, it is important to get prompt medical care and avoid direct contact with that individual.

In addition to proper health care, awareness of the virus through events such as World Hepatitis Day, which takes place on July 28, 2016, are important ways to provide education and reduce the impact of the illness. This global event is sponsored by the World Hepatitis Alliance as a way to educate individuals on the symptoms, prevention, treatment and impact of this deadly disease.  In addition, the organization has taken on the World Health Organization’s Global Strategy for Viral Hepatitis, with the goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. For more information contact Justin McCarthy, MD at 806-761-0722 or visit our website. 

How Can Probiotics Improve Your Health?

Probiotics are beneficial live microorganisms that may be of great benefit in aiding patients with digestive health issues including diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). They work to enhance the population of healthy micro-flora found in the human gut and can be found in many food sources as well as in supplement form.

In addition to helping with digestive issues, there are some studies that have shown improvement in conditions such as allergies and allergic skin conditions such as eczema, as well as tooth decay, liver disease, the common cold, urinary tract issues, vaginal health and even colic in infants. Additionally they have been shown to help in the absorption of nutrients and aiding in the reestablishment of healthy bacterial balance within the digestive tract.

While probiotics are available in supplement form, there are many natural dietary sources as well. Some of the more common include:

·         Yogurt

·         Sauerkraut

·         Pickles

·         Miso

·         Kefir

·         Kombucha

·         Kimchi

·         Lassi

·         Buttermilk

Probiotics help the gut to replace good bacteria that is lost due to health issues. Additionally, they can help the body to create a balance between good and bad bacteria to keep the body running smoothly.  There are several types of probiotics, each with different benefits. The most well known include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. 

Lactobacillus is one of the most common forms of probiotics and is typically found in fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut. This type of bacteria seems to have some benefits for individuals who have trouble digesting lactose. Bifidobacterium is found in dairy foods such as buttermilk and Kefir and appears to have a positive impact on those suffering from IBS.

It is important to remember that probiotics are not regulated in the same way as medications; instead they are regulated like other food based products. This means that probiotic supplement producers are not required to pass the same safety standards that are expected of other medications. Therefore, it is crucial to utilize supplements from only the highest quality sources or seek natural food based alternatives. Additionally, some probiotics might be harmful for individuals with compromised immune systems. 

If you are considering adding a probiotic to your dietary regime, consult the gastroenterology specialists at Dr. Justin McCarthy, MD.

Colon Cancer Screenings and Early Detection

Excluding skin cancer, colorectal is the third most common cancer in the United States (among both men and women), and the second most common cause of cancer deaths each year. While these statistics are scary, the number of deaths per year (approximately 100,000) is slowly dropping. This is due in large part to education as well as early prevention through regular colorectal screenings.

As the name implies, colorectal cancer affects the rectum, colon or both.  A colonoscopy is the most reliable screening available to detect this form of cancer. During a colonoscopy, a gastric doctor examines the lining of your entire colon to locate any polyps or tumors. It can take up to 15 years for a polyp to develop into colorectal cancer. This is why regular screening is so important.

A GI doctor can help prevent many types of colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps before they have the chance to grow into cancer. Furthermore screenings are the best way to find this type of cancer early before it has an opportunity to spread. When found early, the 5-year relative survival rate is about 90%; however, only 4 out of 10 colorectal cancers are found early. When cancer spreads outside the colon or rectum the survival rates are significantly lower.

Colonoscopies should be conducted per your doctor’s recommendation starting at age 50.  Individuals with a family history or other risk factors may start screenings before age 50.  A colonoscopy is a relatively simple, low-risk procedure that is generally performed on an outpatient basis.  Here is what you can expect during this procedure:

• You will be provided at-home instructions and medications that help empty the bowels before the procedure takes place.
• After receiving medication to help you relax, the GI doctor performs the procedure by inserting a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your colon through the rectum.
• The tiny video camera in the tube sends images to a video monitor so the gastric doctor can see any abnormalities.
• If the doctor sees and questionable tissue, he can remove it during the procedure and send it for testing.

If you are concerned about your colon health, contact Dr. Justin McCarthy at (806) 761-0722 or visit his Facebook page to learn more about specialized gastroenterology care.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis/dxc-20188255?mc_id=google&campaign=294429641&geo=9053103&kw=%2Bcolon%20%2Bcancer%20%2Bdetection&ad=107670105281&network=s&sitetarget=&adgroup=21735170561&extension=&target=kwd-20147992030&matchtype=b&device=c&account=1733789621&placementsite=enterprise&gclid=CLanoe7vzcwCFQetaQodM4kJyQ

Your Guide To The Intragastric Balloon System Procedure

Has your diet and exercise efforts failed?  Are too afraid to try aggressive weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass or gastric banding?  There is a relatively new, non-invasive weight loss procedure developed for those who cannot lose weight through dieting but are unable to commit to surgery.  The ORBERA Intragastric Balloon System is a new weight-loss method that is temporary, but produces big results.  Take a look at this brief overview of how the procedure works and what you can expect:

What is it?  Intragastric Balloon System is a weight-loss system that uses a gastric balloon to occupy space in the stomach.  Using a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure, the patient is mildly sedated and the balloon is placed into the stomach through the mouth.  Once in place, the balloon is filled with saline and it expands into a spherical shape. 

How does it work?  The Intragastric Balloon System takes up space in the stomach to help patients lose weight.  Patients will enjoy a feeling of fullness sooner and longer after eating meals, which encourages portion control and helps manage hunger.  The system is temporary and should be removed after 6 months.

Can I use it?  This device is used in obese adult patients who have an abnormally high mass index rate and are unable to lose weight through diet and exercise.  The Intragastric Balloon System should not be used for those who have any inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract, have potential upper gastrointestinal bleeding conditions, have serious esophageal motility disorders and any other medical condition that would hinder safety or effectiveness.

Let the ORBERA Intragastric Balloon System kick start your health and wellbeing into gear!  Interested in this non-surgical, non-pharmaceutical approach to weight loss?  Justin McCarthy, MD is a top-rated gastroenterologist is the Lubbock area with extensive experience treating gastrointestinal issues.  If you are interested in the ORBERA Intragastric Balloon System, set up an appointment with Dr. Justin McCarthy at 806-761-0722 or like us on Facebook to learn more.

Meet Dr. Justin McCarthy, Gastroenterologist

Justin McCarthy was born in Australia and received his medical training at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. Dr. McCarthy graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor's degree in Medicine, Surgery and Medical Science. Following his internship and residency, he did research which led to a PhD in Medical Biology from the University of Melbourne. After, Dr. McCarthy did further residency and an equivalent of fellowship. His education and dedication allowed him to become a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) and a member of the Australian Gastroenterology Society.

In 1986, Dr. McCarthy came to the US as a visiting professor of Medicine and taught at medical schools in Wisconsin and Dallas, Texas. When he came to Lubbock in 1992, McCarthy met and married a local Lubbock girl, Patricia Hunter. he has been in practice in Lubbock since then, only leaving to look after his aged parents in Australia and temporary locum work for the US military.

Over 40 years after starting his education in health, Justin McCarthy, MD is now providing Lubbock, Texas with specialized gastroenterology care and internal medicine. Gastroenterology is a branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the gastrointestinal tract including the stomach, esophagus and intestines. A gastroenterologist can diagnose and treat a number of digestive disorders including abdominal hernia, acid reflux, heartburn, stomach pain, ulcers and more.


Dr. Justin McCarthy is a top-rated gastroenterologist affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area including Covenant Hospital and University Medical Center. He works with patients to diagnose and treat a number of gastrointestinal issues. To learn more about his medical care and services, like Justin McCarthy, MD on Facebook or call 806-761-0722 to set up and appointment.