Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation, can significantly affect your quality of life and keep you from activities you enjoy. At Serenity Osteopathic, LLC, in Satellite Beach, Florida, board-certified osteopathic neuromusculoskeletal doctor Tiffany Noblitt, DO, treats gastrointestinal disorders using a combination of traditional osteopathic techniques and Western medicine. To make an appointment today, call the office or click the online booking feature. 

What are gastrointestinal disorders?

Gastrointestinal disorders, or digestive conditions, are medical issues that affect any part of your digestive system, including your stomach, intestines, and gallbladder. These disorders range from mild to severe and may cause various symptoms, including:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Stomach pain
• Cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Constipation

Most people experience digestive issues occasionally. However, they typically improve with rest, increased fluid intake, and over-the-counter medication. If your symptoms persist for more than a week or affect your quality of life, it’s important to seek an accurate diagnosis. 

What are some common gastrointestinal disorders?

Dr. Noblitt treats various gastrointestinal disorders, including:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Ulcers
• Crohn’s disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Diverticulitis
• Celiac disease
• Constipation
• Gastritis
• Lactose intolerance

If you have a potentially serious gastrointestinal disorder, such as colorectal polyps or cancer, Dr. Noblitt can refer you to a specialist.

When should I see a doctor about a gastrointestinal disorder?

Make an appointment with Dr. Noblitt if you experience gastrointestinal symptoms that last more than a few weeks, especially if they’re severe and don’t improve with dietary changes or other at-home treatments. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent certain conditions from worsening and significantly improve your quality of life. 

How are gastrointestinal disorders diagnosed?

To diagnose gastrointestinal disorders, Dr. Noblitt reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including when they began, what they feel like, and whether they’re worse at certain times, like after eating a large meal or drinking alcohol. Provide as much detail as possible, as this information can guide Dr. Noblitt’s testing recommendations.

After gathering the necessary insights, Dr. Noblitt orders lab tests, including bloodwork and stool analysis. She may also recommend an endoscopic procedure if necessary. Endoscopic procedures use a thin tube with a light and camera on the end (endoscope) to view specific parts of your digestive system, such as your esophagus or large intestine.

How are gastrointestinal disorders treated?

Dr. Noblitt treats gastrointestinal disorders using a combination of holistic medicine, osteopathy, and traditional Western medicine. Depending on the issues you’re experiencing, she may suggest:

• Osteopathic manual therapy (OMT)
• Prescription or over-the-counter medications
• Diet and lifestyle changes
• Endoscopic procedures, like colonoscopy

Treatment typically involves combining several of these treatment approaches. 

To receive high-quality treatment for gastrointestinal disorders, make an appointment at Serenity Osteopathic, LLC, today by calling the office or booking your visit online.