Lab Tests at Dr. Justin McCarthy MD

The office of Dr. Justin McCarthy offers four different lab tests that can detect bacteria, infection, unexplained GI bleed, and chronic diarrhea. Along with lab tests, our Orbera Weight Loss system could be the key to a healthier you! 

 

H. Pylori Test

 

The main purpose of this test is to detect H. Pylori infection. H. Pylori is a heart shaped infection in the digestive tract. We begin the test by having our patient breath into a bag, drink a special drink, then wait 15 minutes to breath into a different bag. The patient will receive feedback before the end of their appointment. Based on the results, we can then make the accurate decisions of which antibiotics to use for treatment. Overall, this is our easiest test for patients and we highly recommend it if you are feeling pain in your abdomen and stomach. 

 

Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth Breath Test

 

The main purpose is to detect presence of high numbers of bacteria in the small bowel. This test will detect the bacteria by taking breathing samples. The machine will then determine the amount of hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide present. This 3 hour test will provide you with reading materials and items to occupy yourself with, if you forget to bring anything. 

 

Pillcam Endoscopy

 

The main purpose of this test is to find any traces that could lead to suspected Crohn’s Disease. Unexplained GI bleeding should be checked right away, because you could be at risk of having Crohn’s Disease. The test begins by having the patient swallow a capsule the size of a large vitamin. The Vitamin has a small camera on the end that will move throughout the patient and will exit via bowel movement. Do not return the capsule! Also, there will be a recording device warn by the patient on their shoulder that will need to be returned on the same day. 

 

Smart Pill Test

 

The main purpose of this test is to test for gastroparesis or chronic constipation. The Smart Pill is a GI mobility test which measures the whole systems transit times. It can be used as a non-radioactive test for gastroparesis and chronic constipation. 

 

For More Information 

 

For more information on our lab tests, our Orbera Weight Loss System, and other services visit our website at http://www.justinmccarthymd.com/home. Or give us a call at 806-761-0722! 

Manage Stress with Justin McCarthy MD during Stress Awareness Month

Almost half of America has stated that their stress has increased dramatically in the past 5 years. Stress can impact one’s daily life activities, causing them to be unable to complete tasks to their greatest potential.  April is Stress Awareness Month and Justin McCarthy MD wants you to know how to deal with your stress! 

The first way to deal with your personal stress is to realize what is causing the problem. By understanding your stress, you can find the triggering factors that create the stress in your life. Once you understand your stress, you can figure out when to do activities in your daily schedule to tone down your stress. There are multiple ways to deal with stress. One of the more effective methods is physical activity and exercise. Working out multiple times a week can relax your mind and body. Overall, working out offers plenty of benefits and keeps you healthy and fit. Eating well and staying fit will not only make you feel good, but create a better lifestyle for you. Maintaining your stress is all about you! So, work on yourself and most importantly, make time for yourself. Stress can affect you mentally and physically. Sooner or later stress is going to take a tole! Stress can take control of your thoughts and your life, if you don’t act. Take care of yourself and the rest will follow! 

Stress Awareness month has taken place since 1992. You can visit their website at http://stressawarenessmonth.com/ to learn more. Throughout the month of April, doctors and health specialists try to enforce the public awareness of stress. They want you to know that you are not alone and that their are ways to manage your stress. Health specialist travel all around America to spread awareness and tips to put you in the right direction.

Is stress affecting your health? Dr. Justin McCarthy can work with you to manage and alleviate stress. We can also detect different infections, bacterial overgrowths, and multiple other stomach issues with your technology here at Justin McCarthy MD. Our Orbera Weight Loss system is clinically tested and will help you lose weight in a healthy way. To learn more visit our website at http://www.justinmccarthymd.com/ or give us a call at  806-761-0722

Feeling Hungry? Think About Avoiding These Foods For Better Digestion.

A delicious breakfast, a savory lunch, and a mouthwatering dinner can be the key ingredients to making or breaking your day. But as much fun as it is to think about the next meal we will be enjoying, the health of our digestive system should be carefully considered when it comes to daily meals.  At the practice of Dr. Justin McCarthy, we believe there is a proper balance between filling the hunger void without destroying your diet and overall digestive health.

But, that doesn’t mean there still aren’t a few cravings it would be best to resist. Take a look at our recommended foods to avoid when your stomach is growling and your next meal is around the corner.

Processed Sugar

Processed sugar can unfortunately have the same effects on your liver as consuming too much alcohol. Shocking, right? Keep in mind that processed sugar, like high fructose corn syrup, is found in many processed foods on the market today.

Tomatoes

While tomatoes are healthy in the sense that they are packed with nutrients and Vitamin C, their tannic acid can cause gastric ulcers if eaten often on an empty stomach. Try eating tomatoes with your dinner instead!

Tea and Coffee

Like tomatoes, heartburn and indigestion can occur throughout the day when you drink coffee or tea on an empty stomach due to its acidity.

Alcohol

While this one seems obvious, it never hurts to have a reminder of how excessive alcohol consumption can damage your digestion. When you drink alcohol without food in your stomach, the alcohol goes straight to your stomach, meaning it is absorbed in the body more quickly. This can lead to a dramatic decrease in blood pressure and pulse rate.

So now that we’ve covered a few cannots, you may be asking yourself what foods you CAN enjoy on an empty stomach! We highly recommend you take a big bite out of eggs, fresh fruit, yogurt, and honey to greatly improve your digestive system.

For the very best care in gastroenterology, look no further than Dr. Justin McCarthy. Our offices are located at 2424 50th Street, Suite 100 in the heart of Lubbock. Schedule your upcoming appointment today by calling 806-761-0722!

Fermentation and Super Foods

Fermentation is simply the chemical breakdown of a substance by microorganisms like bacteria and yeasts. As unappetizing as that sounds, there’s a good chance you’ve had fermented food before - wine, beer, cured meats, pickled vegetables and sauerkraut are all fermented foods that have been dietary staples for centuries in almost every culture. These foods were not only used as a regular part of the traditional diet, but also as a medical supplement for a variety of digestive issues. Foods and drinks such as kefir, kombucha, soy milk and others have been shown to play an important part in maintain a healthy gut. Here are six benefits to including fermented food and drink in your regular diet.

1. Balances stomach acid – Fermented food often has the ability to ease digestive issues because of an imbalance in stomach acids. When hydrochloric acid is lacking in the digestive tract, fermented foods help to increase the acid level in gastric juices. Conversely, when the acid production is too high, they can help to soothe the stomach and intestinal lining.
2. Increases production of acetylcholine – This neurotransmitter assists in the communication of nerve impulses in the digestive process. This can create healthy and more regular bowel movements and reduce constipation. It also increases the release of digestive enzymes in the stomach, pancreas and gallbladder to further facilitate the effectiveness of the digestive process.
3. Diabetic friendly – Increased pancreatic function is highly beneficial for individuals who suffer from diabetes. Additionally, the carbohydrates in fermented food are easier to digest and do not put an additional burden on the pancreas.
4. Controls or destroys pathogenic bacteria – Pathogenic bacteria is often sensitive to acidic environments. Because fermented foods such as sauerkraut help to balance the acidity level in the gut, they are unable to flourish. Many fermented foods have been shown to be even more effective than antibiotics in destroying harmful pathogens.
5. Detoxification – Fermented super foods such as kombucha are an excellent way to rid the body of harmful toxins that can create a sluggish gut and reduced energy levels.
6. Weight loss – An article published by mindbodygreen.com indicates that adding fermented food to your diet can assist the body in more effectively absorbing nutrients which can aid in weight loss and maintenance.

Do you struggle with digestive issues? Adding fermented food and drink to a balanced diet might be an excellent all-natural solution to your discomfort. Contact Dr. Justin McCarthy For more ideas on ways to create a healthy and efficient gut.

Healthy Gut, Healthy Brain

With today’s busy lifestyles, brain fog can make our days sluggish and unproductive. Difficulty focusing is often blamed on lack of sleep or hectic schedules. While these factors may be partly to blame, many people are unaware that the root of the problem could be based in their gut. Having a healthy gut is a key to having a healthy brain. 

The Gut-Brain Connection

It’s safe to say that the brain is the “supercomputer” for all the body’s functions, however, we don’t often think that a healthy digestive tract will play a part in a having better mental clarity. The gut manufactures the neurotransmitter serotonin, which regulates mood. If the body has a serotonin deficiency, it can cause anxiety, depression and a general brain fog. There are two common causes of imbalances in the gut: infections and diet. 

Infections 

Candida and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) are the two most common gastric infections.  Candida is an overgrowth of yeast. This can be caused by taking antibiotics, eating a diet high in carbohydrates, drinking too much alcohol and even birth control usage. The overgrowth of yeast coats the lining of the intestinal tract and suppresses the ability to manufacture or secrete serotonin. It can also create chemicals that are actually toxic to the brain. A diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates and alcohol typically causes SIBO. It can also cause a deficiency in the vitamin B12 which also helps to stabilize mood and focus. 

Diet

The highly processed American diet can create poor psychological symptoms. Casein, a protein found in dairy and gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye, can create inflammation and gut leakage. This leakage can impact the brain and affect mood. It also makes it difficult to absorb nutrients which can lead to extreme vitamin deficiencies including omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and the B vitamins - all of which are an important part in brain health and mood stabilization.  

Are you struggling with brain fog or mood disorders? It might not be your brain. Contact Dr. Justin McCarthy in Lubbock, Texas to discuss your symptoms. Using the latest diagnostic testing, we can help you determine if the issue is gut related. Once diagnosed, we can work with you to create an appropriate treatment plan for a healthy gut and enhanced mental clarity.  

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.