We are your regional resource for gastroenterology and digestive health services.

Abdominal Pain

At Montrose Regional Health, our GI specialists are dedicated to offering effective treatments for abdominal pain, combined with compassionate, patient-focused care. Using the latest technology, we ensure precise diagnoses to guide your treatment. Our commitment to a patient-centered approach creates a comfortable, stress-free environment for individuals of all ages experiencing abdominal discomfort.

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition that can cause considerable pain or discomfort. Possible causes include eating certain foods, smoking, obesity, taking certain medications, and more. At Montrose Regional Health, we are committed to helping you manage GERD with expert care, compassion, and a thorough understanding of your needs.

Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus that lead to sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.  Though symptoms are often brief and self resolving, they can become chronic and debilitating.  Most can be treated with medication or simple outpatient procedures.

Barrett’s Esophagus

Barrett’s Esophagus is often linked to long-term acid reflux (GERD), where chronic exposure to stomach acid damages the cells in the lower esophagus, leading to significant health concerns. This condition can greatly affect your well-being and quality of life. At Montrose Regional Health, our experienced team is here to diagnose and treat Barrett’s Esophagus. The condition occurs when the lining of the esophagus—the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach—becomes damaged due to persistent acid reflux. Over time, this damage causes the healthy esophageal lining to be replaced with tissue similar to that of the intestines, a process known as intestinal metaplasia. Barrett’s Esophagus is a complication of GERD, often seen in individuals with severe or long-standing acid reflux.

Biliary Obstruction

Biliary obstruction occurs when there is a blockage in the bile ducts, which are responsible for transporting bile from the liver and gallbladder to the intestines. This blockage can disrupt the digestive process by preventing bile from aiding in digestion and may lead to a buildup of waste products in the liver, potentially causing serious health complications.

Celiac Disease

Celiac Disease is an autoimmune condition that is caused by the consumption of gluten, a protein present in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with Celiac Disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to difficulties in absorbing nutrients.

Colon and Rectal Cancers

These cancers form in the colon or rectum and may cause changes in bowel habits, bleeding, or abdominal discomfort, though many cause no symptoms at all. Early detection through screening is key to successful treatment.

Constipation

Constipation is a digestive issue marked by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools. It usually involves fewer than three bowel movements a week, with stools that may be harder, drier, and more challenging to pass, often causing pain or discomfort.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. While it can impact any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus, it most commonly affects the lower end of the small intestine and the beginning of the colon. The disease can lead to a variety of symptoms and, in some cases, result in severe health complications.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common issue where patients experience frequent, loose, or watery stools. It is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages and usually lasts for a few days. When diarrhea is chronic or persistent, it may indicate a more serious underlying health problem.

Diverticular Disease

Diverticular Disease refers to the formation of diverticula, which are small, bulging pouches that develop in the lining of the digestive tract, most commonly in the lower part of the large intestine (colon). The condition typically progresses in Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis. Diverticulosis occurs when pouches are present but not inflamed, and Diverticulitis occurs when these existing pouches become inflamed or infected.

Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a medical term for difficulty swallowing, which can occur due to problems in the mouth, throat, or esophagus. It may involve discomfort or pain when swallowing, as well as a sensation of food “sticking” in the throat or chest. Dysphagia can result from various causes, such as neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, Parkinson’s disease), structural abnormalities, or muscle weakness. Treatment often depends on the underlying cause and may include therapy, dietary changes, or, in some cases, surgery.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune system disorder marked by inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It occurs when eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, accumulate in the esophagus in response to allergens or acid reflux. This buildup can cause damage and impair the function of the esophageal tissue.

Fistulas

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal and skin around the anus, sometimes involving the genitals. It can cause persistent drainage or infection and typically requires surgical correction.

Gallbladder Disorders

Almost 20 million people in the United States are affected by gallstones, which raise the risk of both acute and chronic gallbladder conditions. Gallbladder disorders often occur as a result of gallstones—solid particles that form from bile cholesterol and bilirubin in the gallbladder. Other common conditions include cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), gallbladder disease without stones, and biliary dyskinesia (abnormal functioning of the bile ducts and gallbladder).

Gastritis

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can develop suddenly (acute gastritis) or gradually over time (chronic gastritis). It may lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, and if not properly treated, it can result in serious complications.

GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) impacts roughly 20% of the population in the United States. It is a long-term condition in which stomach acid consistently flows back into the esophagus, the tube that links the mouth and stomach. This acid reflux can irritate the esophageal lining, leading to discomfort, and if not addressed, may result in more serious health complications.

Hemorrhoids

The word Hemorrhoids is commonly used to refer to symptoms that result from having excessively enlarged tissue both within and outside the anus, which can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and difficulty staying clean.  However, hemorrhoids are a natural and normal part of our body that do not cause symptoms unless enlarged.  They are common and often treatable with minimally invasive procedures.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E), but it can also result from alcohol use, certain medications, or autoimmune conditions. The liver becomes damaged, impairing its ability to function properly. Symptoms can include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and dark urine. Depending on the type and severity, hepatitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) and may lead to complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer if untreated.

Hiatal Hernia

By the age of 60, up to 60% of Americans may experience a hiatal hernia. This condition occurs when the upper part of the stomach protrudes through an opening in the diaphragm, known as the hiatus, into the chest cavity. It can lead to considerable discomfort and may worsen conditions such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a widespread condition that impacts approximately 12% of adults. It leads to abdominal pain and digestive issues that can interfere with daily life. IBS affects the large intestine and is marked by a combination of symptoms, including abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two.

Liver Disease

Liver disease refers to a range of conditions that impair the liver’s ability to function correctly. As the body’s largest organ, the liver plays a crucial role in digestion, energy storage, and detoxification. When it’s affected by disease, its ability to perform these essential functions can be compromised.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that is vital for digestion and blood sugar regulation. This condition can manifest as acute pancreatitis, which comes on suddenly and lasts for several days, or as chronic pancreatitis, a long-term inflammation that can progressively damage the pancreas over time.

Rectal Pain & Bleeding

Seeing blood in your stool or experiencing rectal pain are significant health concerns. These symptoms can result from a variety of conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract, particularly the rectum and anus. The pain and bleeding can vary in intensity, ranging from mild to severe, and may occur sporadically or persistently, depending on the underlying cause.

Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse occurs when part of the rectum slides out of place and protrudes through the anus. Treatment often involves surgery to restore normal anatomy and function.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis is a condition where the lining of the large intestine and rectum becomes inflamed. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes sores and inflammation in the digestive tract, along with a range of uncomfortable symptoms. This condition can be debilitating and, if untreated, may lead to serious complications such as severe bleeding, a higher risk of colon cancer, perforation of the colon, and blood clots. Effective treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.