SPECIALTY CARE GASTROENTERLOGY
WhAT Gastroenterology?
Gastroenterology is the study of the normal function and diseases of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver. It involves a detailed understanding of the normal action (physiology) of the gastrointestinal organs including the movement of material through the stomach and intestine (motility), the digestion and absorption of nutrients into the body, removal of waste from the system, and the function of the liver as a digestive organ. It includes common and important conditions such as colon polyps and cancer, hepatitis, gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), peptic ulcer disease, colitis, gallbladder and biliary tract disease, nutritional problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and pancreatitis. In essence, all normal activity and disease of the digestive organs are part of the study of Gastroenterology.
Gastroenterologists are doctors who investigate, diagnose, treat, and prevent all gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) and hepatological (liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas) diseases.
What slows down gastric motility in elderly?
Normal aging is associated with significant changes in the function of most organs and tissues. In this regard, the gastrointestinal tract is no exception. Normal aging is associated with various changes in gastrointestinal motility, but the clinical significance of such changes remains unclear. More important is the impact of various age-related diseases on gastrointestinal motility in the elderly: for example, long-standing diabetes mellitus may reduce gastric emptying in up to 50% of patients; depression significantly prolongs whole-gut transit time; hypothyroidism may prolong oro-caecal transit time, and chronic renal failure is associated with impaired gastric emptying. In addition, various frequently used drugs in the elderly cause disordered gastrointestinal motility. These drugs include anticholinergics, especially antidepressants with an anticholinergic effect, opioid analgesics, and calcium antagonists.
Chronic constipation in the elderly: a primer for the gastroenterologist?
Constipation is a frequently reported bowel symptom in the elderly with a considerable impact on the quality of life and health expenses. Disease-related morbidity and even mortality have been reported in the affected frail elderly. Although constipation is not a physiologic consequence of normal aging, decreased mobility, medications, underlying diseases, and rectal sensory-motor dysfunction may all contribute to its increased prevalence in older adults. In the elderly there is usually more than one etiologic mechanism, requiring a multifactorial treatment approach. The majority of patients would respond to diet and lifestyle modifications reinforced by bowel training measures. In those not responding to conservative treatment, the approach needs to be tailored to addressing all comorbid conditions. In the adult population, the management of constipation continues to evolve as well as the understanding of its complex etiology. However, the constipated elderly have been left behind while gastroenterology consultations for these common conditions are at a rise for the worldwide age increment.
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When to See a Gastroenterologist?
Some sensitive medical concerns - like those involving your gastrointestinal tract - may need more specific care than your primary care doctor typically provides. Our gastroenterologists have up to five additional years of specialized medical training and significant experience with diseases affecting the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, colon, and rectum. Patients are usually referred to as a gastroenterologist by a primary care doctor. You should see a gastroenterologist if you have any symptoms of a digestive health disorder or if you need a colon cancer screening.
Often, seeing a gastroenterologist leads to more accurate detection of polyps and cancer, fewer complications from procedures, and less time spent in the hospital. You should see a gastroenterologist if you're experiencing any of these common symptoms: Rectal bleeding. Leakage/underwear stains. Bowel movement urges that are hard to control. Diarrhea. Changes in bowel habits. Pale-colored stools. Dark urine.
Often, seeing a gastroenterologist leads to more accurate detection of polyps and cancer, fewer complications from procedures, and less time spent in the hospital. You should see a gastroenterologist if you're experiencing any of these common symptoms: Rectal bleeding. Leakage/underwear stains. Bowel movement urges that are hard to control. Diarrhea. Changes in bowel habits. Pale-colored stools. Dark urine.
ON-SITE SPECIALTY CARE TELEMEDICINE SERVICES
Continuum Healthcare Network is delivering On-Site Clinics within senior communities is the more needed help and essential—as baby boomers age. What’s more, recent studies show that offering primary care and specialty care on-site in a residential setting reduces hospital readmissions, as well as extends the life expectancy.The Continuum Healthcare Network is offering a new trend in health care services by providing two important services: Providing Onsite- Specialty Care for Residents, and Skilled Care Services and Personal Care at Home. Both our Medical Programs offer numerous benefits for senior residents. There are many advantages your residents will enjoy. These two particular services offer incredible value and undeniable peace of mind for your residents AND their families:
*Access to primary and specialty care services without leaving the community. *Unparalleled value of nighttime attention and care during health-related episodes.
*Access to primary and specialty care services without leaving the community. *Unparalleled value of nighttime attention and care during health-related episodes.
TELEMEDICINE APPOINTMENTS
Continuum Healthcare Network is happy to offer telemedicine appointments so you can visit with our medical team and specialty care physicians from the privacy and comfort of home or community. You can now receive one-on-one customized care, treatment plans, and custom medications shipped to your home from your computer, tablet, or mobile phone.
If you live in a rural area that doesn't have access to the internet, specialty care physicians, limited transportation, and the technology to connect to telemedicine will provide you the necessary equipment to access the healthcare you need.
If you need assistance please feel free to call us at our main line at 240-650-7250.
If you live in a rural area that doesn't have access to the internet, specialty care physicians, limited transportation, and the technology to connect to telemedicine will provide you the necessary equipment to access the healthcare you need.
If you need assistance please feel free to call us at our main line at 240-650-7250.
Contacts
Continuum Healthcare Network Healthcare Resources and Telemedicine Services
Hours
Monday: 7:00am – 7:00pmTuesday: 7:00am – 7:00pmWednesday: 7:00am – 7:00pmThursday: 7:00am – 7:00pmFriday: 7:00am – 7:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am-5:00pmSunday: 9:00am-3:00pm