Gastroenterology Q & A by Dr. Marks

All Gastroenterology Q & A's:

Colorectal (Colon) Cancer Slideshow Digestive Disease Myths Slideshow Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) Slideshow

• What is a contracted gallbladder?
• Could an MRI or other completely non-invasive procedure be effective in locating and diagnosing anorectal problems (such as an abscess or fistula?)
• Is it correct that the hepatitis C virus cannot survive for more than two hours outside the human body?
• I have had my gallbladder removed, and subsequently, I have chronic severe diarrhea, is there any treatment for the diarrhea?
• Is there a procedure to deaden the nerve controlling acid secretion?
• I am wondering if exercise will help with a hiatal hernia? I am also curious if alcohol or tobacco has any effects on (pantoprazole) Protonix?
• Can it be harmful to take too many tums or antacids?
• Is there any contraindication in administering a Helicobacter pylor urea breath test to a pregnant women?
• Does stress affect IBS (make it worse)?
• Does IBS lead to Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis?
• I have an enlarged spleen with varices and I would like to know if this is something I should worry about.
• Can stress cause diarrhea or constipation?
• What kind of medical specialist would you see to treat hepatitis C?
• Why does the stomach "growl" or make noises?
• I have a problem in regard to my spleen (or I should say "spleens"), because I have an extra spleen. Doctors call it (an accessory spleen). Should I be concerned about this extra spleen?
• What kinds of food should be avoided in trying to control the symptoms of GERD?
• My sister had her gallblader removed recently. What kind of diet will she need to follow; and will she now be at greater risk for heart disease?
• Is it necessary to conduct a culture of feces or vomit in order to determine that a patient suffers from food poisoning?
• Can you please tell me if you have heard of the condition cryptitis? Is this associated with colitis?
• When I've tried to put extra fiber in my diet, my gas level gets even worse. Is there a product that will help increase fiber but not increase gas?

Dr. Mark's Message:

Dr. Jay Marks is a board certified internist and gastroenterologist. He also serves as medical and pharmacy editor for MedicineNet.com.

Dr. Marks sees gastroenterology as a fascinating subspecialty of medicine because of the many different organs involved with GI diseases, the many types of diseases that affect the GI organs, and the great frequency with which GI diseases occur. Dr. Marks looks forward to continuing his work and providing comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date information in the field of gastroenterology.

"What appeals to me most is the ability to continually update the information in our articles with the newest information in gastroenterology," Dr. Marks says.

Dr. Marks finds GI testing to be particularly interesting since GI testing often is performed for more complex medical problems in which making a diagnosis is difficult and challenging. He enjoys the interaction he has with this patients and other physicians as well as the intellectual stimulation that medicine provides.

In his free time Dr. Marks enjoys hiking and reading.