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.