Digestive Health Care in Lewisville, TX

At Dr. Harveer S. Parmar MD’s clinic in Lewisville, TX, we specialize in diagnosing and managing a wide range of digestive health conditions, including constipation, bloating, reflux disease, Crohn’s disease, IBS, colon cancer screening, and celiac disease. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both immediate symptoms and long-term health outcomes.

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Understanding Common Digestive Health Issues

Constipation

Constipation is a common digestive complaint characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool. It can result from various factors, including dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and certain medications.

Symptoms of Constipation:

  • Fewer than three bowel movements per week
  • Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Feeling of incomplete evacuation

Treatment for Constipation:

  • Dietary Changes: Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to soften stool.
  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise to promote healthy bowel function.
  • Medications: Laxatives or stool softeners may be recommended in severe cases.

    FAQs About Constipation:

    What causes constipation?

    Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, including low fiber diet, dehydration, lack of exercise, medication side effects, or underlying medical conditions.

    How can I prevent constipation?

    Preventive measures include a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, regular physical activity, and avoiding overuse of laxatives.

    Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

    Bloating is a sensation of fullness or swelling in the abdomen, often caused by excess gas or digestive disturbances.

    Symptoms of Bloating:

    • Abdominal discomfort or pain
    • Visible swelling or distension
    • Frequent belching or flatulence

    Treatment for Bloating:

    • Dietary Adjustments: Reducing intake of gas-producing foods like beans, cabbage, and carbonated drinks.
    • Probiotics: To promote healthy gut bacteria balance.
    • Medications: Antacids or anti-gas medications may help relieve symptoms.

    FAQs About Bloating

    What foods commonly cause bloating?

    Foods high in fiber, dairy products, and carbonated beverages are common culprits of bloating.

    When should I see a doctor about bloating?

    If bloating is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss or blood in the stool, it is essential to consult a doctor.

    Reflux Disease (GERD): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

    Reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation.

    Symptoms of GERD:

    • Heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest)
    • Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • Chronic cough or throat irritation

    Treatment for GERD:

    • Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating.
    • Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid.
    • Surgery: In severe cases, surgical options like fundoplication may be considered.

    FAQs About Reflux Disease

    What triggers GERD symptoms?

    Common triggers include spicy foods, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.

    Can GERD be cured?

    While GERD is a chronic condition, its symptoms can often be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

    Crohn’s Disease: A Comprehensive Overview

    Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a range of digestive symptoms.

    Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease:

    • Persistent diarrhea
    • Abdominal pain and cramping
    • Blood in the stool
    • Weight loss and fatigue

    Treatment for Crohn’s Disease:

    • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, and biologics to reduce inflammation.
    • Diet and Nutrition: Specialized diets and nutritional supplements.
    • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove damaged portions of the digestive tract.

    FAQs About Crohn’s Disease

    What causes Crohn's disease?

    The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.

    Is Crohn's disease curable?

    There is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and maintain remission.

     Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or both.

    Symptoms of IBS:

    • Abdominal pain or cramping
    • Bloating and gas
    • Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two

    Treatment for IBS:

    • Dietary Changes: Low FODMAP diet, increased fiber intake.
    • Medications: Antispasmodics, laxatives, or anti-diarrheal medications.
    • Stress Management: Counseling or behavioral therapies to manage stress, which can exacerbate symptoms.

    FAQs About IBS:

    What triggers IBS symptoms?

    Triggers may include certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, or infections.

    Can IBS lead to other health problems?

    IBS does not cause permanent damage to the digestive tract but can significantly impact quality of life.

    Colon Cancer Screening: Importance and Methods

    Colon cancer screening is vital for early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women.

    Screening Methods for Colon Cancer:

    • Colonoscopy: A comprehensive examination of the colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera.
    • Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Checks for hidden blood in stool samples.
    • Stool DNA Test (Cologard): Detects DNA markers associated with cancer or precancerous polyps.

      FAQs AboutColon Cancer Screening:

      At what age should I start colon cancer screening?

      Screening is typically recommended starting at age 45, but earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer.

      How often should I get screened for colon cancer?

      Frequency depends on the type of test and individual risk factors but generally ranges from every 1 to 10 years.

      Understanding Celiac Disease: Symptoms and Management

      Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, causing various digestive and non-digestive symptoms.

      Symptoms of Celiac Disease:

      • Diarrhea or constipation
      • Bloating and gas
      • Fatigue
      • Anemia
      • Osteoporosis

      Treatment for Celiac Disease:

      • Gluten-Free Diet: The only effective treatment to prevent symptoms and intestinal damage.

      Nutritional Support: Supplements may be needed to correct deficiencies.

      FAQs About Celiac Disease

      What foods should be avoided with celiac disease?

      All foods containing wheat, barley, and rye should be avoided.

      Can celiac disease develop later in life?

      Yes, celiac disease can develop at any age, even in individuals who have previously tolerated gluten.

      Why Choose Dr. Harveer S. Parmar MD for Digestive Health in Lewisville, TX?

      At Dr. Harveer S. Parmar MD’s clinic, we provide expert care for a wide range of digestive health conditions. Here’s why our patients trust us:

      • Experienced in Gastroenterology: Dr. Parmar offers extensive experience in managing various digestive disorders.
      • Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we provide full-spectrum care.
      • Personalized Treatment Plans: Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
      • Convenient Location: Centrally located in Lewisville, TX, we are easily accessible for all your healthcare needs.

      Schedule Your Appointment Today

      If you are experiencing symptoms related to constipation, bloating, reflux disease, Crohn’s disease, IBS, or need colon cancer screening or management for celiac disease, contact Dr. Harveer S. Parmar MD at our Lewisville, TX clinic today. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to help you achieve optimal digestive health. Schedule your appointment now to start your journey to better health.