It can be normal to have an upset stomach or heartburn every once in a while. But when your symptoms don’t go away or get worse, talk to a gastroenterology (GI) specialist. Doctors and care teams at Ascension Illinois specialize in advanced care for gastrointestinal conditions including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux.
GI doctors understand that gastrointestinal conditions can be uncomfortable and even painful at times. Your care starts with a conversation about you and your symptoms. We take the time to listen to you, so we can better understand your symptoms and your digestive health. Then, we create a personalized care plan that’s right for you.
If you are experiencing chest pain, especially in combination with jaw or arm pain, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting or difficulty breathing, you might be having a heart attack. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
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Personalized care for gastrointestinal conditions
If you have frequent heartburn, nausea or constipation, talk to your doctor about testing and treatment for a gastrointestinal condition. The GI care team at Ascension Illinois treats a range of conditions, including:
- Abdominal pain (indigestion, ulcers, bleeding)
- Acid reflux/GERD
- Barrett's esophagus (abnormal cells on the lining of the esophagus)
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome)
- Hepatitis C
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Pediatric GI conditions
Diagnostic testing and treatment for GI conditions
GI doctors use diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and sigmoidoscopy. By better understanding your health, we create a personalized care plan that is right for you. Many care plans include a combination of lifestyle changes, medication and treatment.
For some conditions, surgery may be recommended as part of your care plan. We understand surgery can feel scary for you and your family. Tell us your concerns and ask us your questions — big and small. Whenever possible, GI doctors use minimally invasive procedures. Your care team also takes the time to explain the procedure to you. We explain what to expect before surgery and how to recover after surgery.
Personalized treatment options for acid reflux
Many times, acid reflux can be managed with dietary changes and medication. But when diet and medication no longer help control your acid reflux, we’re here to provide extra care. GI doctors at Ascension Illinois help you manage your symptoms and offer options such as minimally invasive treatment for heartburn and indigestion.
Minimally invasive treatment for acid reflux helps repair your body’s natural barrier between your stomach and your esophagus to prevent chronic GERD, heartburn and regurgitation. This treatment option may result in less pain and a faster recovery than traditional surgery.
Talk to your doctor about what treatment option is right for you. Ask if a virtual care (e.g, telehealth or online) appointment is available for your first consultation.
Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) for acid reflux
Your doctor may also recommend transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) to treat your acid reflux. TIF is an incisionless minimally invasive procedure that helps treat acid reflux by wrapping the valve between your stomach and esophagus. Your doctor will use a device that enters through your mouth and travels down your throat. Then, the top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus, creating a barrier that prevents acid from leaking or moving up.
Get a second opinion from a GI specialist
Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension Illinois. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our specialists about a personalized care plan.
When you are facing a new diagnosis or experiencing chronic GI symptoms, there’s a lot to think about. We can discuss a treatment plan that’s right for you. Our team of highly experienced specialists can provide you with a second opinion based on experience and as part of a national care team.
Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records from your doctor on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.
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Refer a patient to a specialist
Your patients can expect compassionate, personalized care from the moment our specialists connect with them. Our specialists start by listening to fully understand their needs and to develop an individualized care plan.
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