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Dr. Akram Ismail - How a Gastroenterologist Can Keep Your Liver Healthy

It’s no secret that a gastroenterologist is who you need to see for digestive problems or to have a colonoscopy. However, the exact scope of care provided by a gastroenterologist is often misunderstood. Beyond the gastrointestinal tract, these specialists also care for other organs that are involved in the process of digestion, including the gallbladder, pancreas, and liver.

Location and Function of the Liver The liver is located on the right side of the abdomen, above the gallbladder. It is divided into two separate lobes. As part of its role in digestive health, the liver is responsible for filtering blood and processing nutrients from the digestive tract, as well as secreting bile to aid in the digestion of fat. Additionally, it is responsible for detoxifying chemicals which could be potentially harmful to the body and metabolizing drugs.

Diseases that Affect the Liver Given the vital role it plays in healthy body function, disease of the liver can be serious and requires proper medical treatment. Among the conditions which may impact the liver are:

Hepatitis – Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver and is often the result of viral hepatitis A, B, or C. The severity of the condition depends on the specific type of hepatitis contracted. While hepatitis A resolves relatively quickly and without complication, hepatitis B and C can both lead to chronic liver infection. Cirrhosis – Cirrhosis is damage to the liver from sources such as hepatitis or alcohol abuse that results in scarring. This damage is almost always irreversible, and severe cases may require transplant. Fatty Liver – Fatty liver is often a precursor to cirrhosis. It occurs due to accumulation of triglycerides inside liver cells. In cases where a fatty liver becomes inflamed (steatohepatitis), scarring (fibrosis) may occur, and this is when cirrhosis can develop. Liver Cancer – Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer and is typically preceded by cirrhosis. When detected in early stages before the cancer has spread, the average 5-year survival rate is 31 percent.

How a Gastroenterologist Cares for the Liver Due to its role in the digestive system, gastroenterologists are well-equipped to diagnose and treat many conditions of the liver. While some conditions may require care from multiple types of doctors, a skilled gastroenterologist is always a key component in the treatment of diseases impacting the gastrointestinal tract and related organs.

About the Author: Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail - Health Benefits Of Digestive Enzymes

What are digestive enzymes and how do they support health and wellness?

Digestive enzymes are proteins that are primarily produced in the small intestine and pancreas, as well as in saliva, that help break down the foods we eat into nutrients that can be absorbed and used by the body. Overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine (SIBO), Celiac Disease, and Pancreatic Insufficiency are all medical conditions that can lead to a lack of digestive enzymes the body needs to break down food, causing significant GI symptoms. People with these medical conditions often benefit from digestive enzyme supplements. In addition, people who are lactose intolerant and or who consume primarily plant based diets may also benefit from digestive enzymes to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms.

Digestive Enzymes and Neuro-Developmental Disorders

Kids with neuro-developmental disorders often experience higher instances of digestion issues related to food intolerance, sensitivities, and/or allergies and may benefit from digestive enzymes as well. Recent research shows that kids with ADHD are significantly more prone to bowel problems than their peers, further underscoring the need to investigate the role that diet and digestive health may play for kids with learning and behavioral problems. If a child is lactose intolerant or gluten sensitive and has weak gut junctions that don't properly control what passes through the lining of the small intestine (intestinal permeability), GI symptoms can occur. When trigger foods like dairy and gluten are not fully digested in the stomach, food particles may escape through the weakened lining of the gut and into the bloodstream. When undigested food particles seep into the bloodstream, which is often referred to as leaky gut syndrome, it triggers an immune response in the body and brain. Chemicals produced during this immune response can affect a child’s behavior, focus, and learning ability. Kids with food sensitivities may also experience vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to poor absorption, which may further exacerbate a child's learning or behavioral struggles.

About The Author: Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail - Gall Bladder Diseases

The gall bladder is a small sack attached to the liver. It’s function is to store the bill which is excreted by the liver. It then provides this bile to the intestine when it’s needed to digest ingested fat. Diseased gall bladder occur in two forms. Either it becomes lazy and inflamed. Or develops stones that can cause problems. Gall bladder disease is common among middle age females.

Symptoms of gall bladder disease include:

Abdominal discomfort when eating fatty meal or pain at the right upper part of the abdomen. Other systems are usually related to the presence of stones. When one of the stones gets outside the sack to the ducts that lead to the bowels. When a stone gets stuck in the ducts, it could block the pancreatic and/or the bile dusts. Blocking of the bile ducts can cause jaundice which is yellowish discoloration of the skin and the eyes. Blocking of the pancreatic duct can cause pancreatitis which can lead to severe pain in the upper part of the abdomen that radiate to the back. Pancreatitis when sever can be fatal. Pancreatitis can be the first presentation of diseased gall bladder with stones. If it occurs, it needs to be addressed and treated immediately. One of the aggravating causes of gall bladder problem is pregnancy. If that happens, it is usually treated conservatively in the first trimester and sometimes removal of the gall bladder is done afterwards.

Diagnosis of diseased gall bladder disease is usually simple. It includes ultrasound of the upper abdomen and blood test for liver functions. Treatment includes low fat diet and ultimately removal of the diseased gall bladder. Usually it’s removal does not cause any problem. Some patients develop diarrhea after removing the gall bladder. If that happens, it is easily controlled with bile binding medicine that is taken orally. The take home massage is, if you develop upper abdominal discomfort or pain related to fatty meals, seek medical advice

About The Author: Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail — Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths in developed countries. Hundreds of thousands of people die every year from colon cancer. It is a preventable disease. Rare cases of colon cancer are caused by inherited disease but in the majority of people, it starts as benign tumor that grows in the colon as we get older. As time goes by, these benign tumors turn malignant and eventually spread and cause death. The benign tumors of the colon are called polyps. Colon polyps cause no symptoms. That is why there is no early warning signs for colon cancer. As the benign tumors turn malignant they start causing signs. The most common early sign of colon cancer is bleeding. Most of the time the bleeding is very little that can’t be seen or noticed except by specific tests. That slow gut bleeding eventually cause anemia and low iron level in the blood. Therefore the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in elderly men and non menstruating elderly women is colon cancer. Some of the symptoms of colon tumors include change of bowel habits, progressive constipation, rectal bleeding and abdominal pain. Typically the systems appear in advanced cases. The most efficient tool in dealing with colon cancer is prevention. Colonoscopy is the gold standard in preventing colon cancer. This is simply by early detection and removal of polyps. When the polys are removed, the risk of colon cancer developing in these polyps is gone. There are other less optimal diagnostic tools including radiology and stools genetic tests.

In all developed countries, colonoscopy is indicated for everyone at 50 years old. In some countries screening colonoscopy starts as early as 45 years old as it is the case in USA. If no polyps are detected, the colonoscopy is repeated every ten years. If polyps are found and removed, the colonoscopy is repeated sooner. The timing of repeat depends on the nature of the polyps as well as the size and number of polyps. Therefore anyone 45 years old or older should have a colonoscopy. Get your done!

About the Author — Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail - 8 Remedies To Relieve Constipation

If you find yourself having difficulty going to the toilet and emptying your bowels, there are a number of non-medical methods to encourage a dormant gut to relieve you of constipation. In this article, we cover some ideas you can try at home to remedy constipation and encourage bowel movements.

Firstly, if you notice a change in your regular pattern, you shouldn’t start to worry. If you make a few simple changes, you are likely to find yourself getting back to normal habits.

If you are in need of immediate constipation relief, you may consider one or more of the following to encourage your gut to get back to normal (though we acknowledge prune juice may not be to everyone’s taste).

Natural Constipation Remedies to Empty Your Bowels Lemon juice – a cleansing way to encourage bowel movements is to try taking a glass of water mixed with the juice of half a lemon before bed and when you wake up. You may want to drink with a straw as you could find your teeth becoming sensitive after a regular course of lemon water.

Olive oil – consuming a teaspoon of olive oil in the morning on an empty stomach can encourage stool to flow through the gut. The oil acts as a lubricant in the digestive system, meaning it’s easier for solids to slide through. It also softens up the stool, making it easier to empty your bowels completely.

Prune juice/dried prunes – one of the more traditional remedies for constipation. Prune juice lacks the fibre of the dried fruit, but both are high in sorbitol content. Sorbitol passes through the gut undigested and draws water into the gut, which bulks up the stool and stimulates a bowel movement.

Stewed apricots – a flavoursome favourite to help relieve constipation. De-stone and chop a punnet of apricots in half. Put in a saucepan with 2-3 tablespoons of brown sugar, add two tablespoons of water and turn to a low-medium heat. Stew until they begin to soften then take off the heat and leave with a lid on to cool. These are delicious for breakfast and go fantastically with yoghurt and granola.

Fluids – There are a million and one reasons why it’s great to drink water. Aiming for 2.5 litres/12 glasses a day will ensure you’re refreshing your system and helping to break down any food in the gut. A mug of hot water is great for settling the stomach and encouraging the peristaltic process.

Hot beverages – Whilst we all tend to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as a refreshment or pick-me-up, they do have a diuretic effect. Diuretics increase the production of urine, meaning we have to visit the loo more than usual. Bear this in mind when drinking coffee to help encourage a bowel movement. Tea and Coffee work in a similar way to hot water in that the heat helps to break down solids. A particularly good option for constipation relief is Senna tea which is a stimulant laxative that helps the digestive tract contract.

Avoid foods with a high-fat content – The body has a hard time processing fat. Especially with Western diets, the bile-producing gallbladder (the material that helps break down fat) is stretched to its limit. It’ll do the entire body some good to cut down on the fried food, as well as relieve constipation.

Ginger – A popular natural food in many kitchens. Ginger helps with constipation because it reduces the pressure on the lower intestines. It can also help decrease other symptoms that often accompany constipation, such as cramping, bloating and nausea.

Constipation Relief Through Prevention

As a rule, eating more high-fibre foods can prevent constipation. Be aware though, that if constipation is a result of Colitis or Crohns disease, increasing fibre intake could have a detrimental effect – if in doubt, speak to your GP before making any changes to your diet.

There are two different types of fibre; soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre dissolves in the intestines to form a gel-like substance which helps food move along the digestive tract. Insoluble fibre is not dissolvable and moves through the intestines without being absorbed, and adds bulk to bowel movements and helps to relieve constipation.

About the Author - Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail - 7 Tips To Fight Disease And Strengthen Immunity

When it comes to your health, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Follow these everyday lifestyle habits to give your immune system everything it needs to fend off illness and function at its best.

EAT HEALTHY A healthy immune system must be fueled with nutritious food. That means a diet with plenty of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, and time-tested immune boosters like fresh garlic, spinach, citrus and, yes, even chicken soup.

GET ADEQUATE SLEEP Getting less than the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep can lower your immunity, putting you at greater risk for diseases like diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. In addition, your body makes and releases disease-fighting substances while you sleep.

EXERCISE Important to overall good health, regular exercise keeps your body strong to protect against diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, bone loss and some cancers. Regular, moderate exercise helps circulate cells that attack viruses and bacteria, and lowers stress hormones which can make you more susceptible to illness.

MANAGE STRESS Stress is linked to health issues from digestive problems to heart disease. Chronic stress floods your body with stress hormones that interfere with your immune system. Therefore, it's important to know how to identify stress in your life. Equally important is finding activities that can help you manage stress, such as yoga, music, meditation or exercise.

RECEIVE AGE-APPROPRIATE VACCINATIONS Childhood immunizations, flu shots and boosters at all ages, pneumococcal and shingles vaccinations for older adults, and others help your body fight off illness. Ask your doctor what vaccinations you need.

DON'T SMOKE Smoking decreases immune cells, weakening your body's ability to avoid and fight infections. Give up smoking, and this process can be reversed.

BE SKEPTICAL Many products that claim to boost immune system health, including very high doses of vitamins and minerals, are not proven, not regulated and may not be safe. Talk to your healthcare provider before adding new supplements to your regimen.

About the Author - Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail - Gastroenterology Specialists - What Can They Treat?

Physicians who specialize in gastroenterology diagnose and treat the digestive systems of the body. This is a complex field.

Medical practitioners who specialize in the field of gastroenterology diagnose and treat many portions of the body's digestive systems. Gastroenterologists are grouped with the focus of hepatology in order to offer diagnostics, treatment and preventative care for more than just the stomach. There are many organs and body parts that play a part in digestion including the colon, intestine, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, esophagus and stomach. The food that we eat goes through many channels and stages in order to nourish our bodies.

According to Dr. Akram Ismail, Some of the treatment services these physicians may offer include:

Constipation: Constipation can occur for many different reasons. Diet can be a component as can dehydration and lack of exercise. Function of the rectum and pelvic floor must also be tested for proper workability.

Fecal incontinence: On the other end of the spectrum from constipation is fecal incontinence. Dietary changes or sphincter surgery may help.

Reflux problems and Barrett's esophagus: Monitoring, evaluation and treatment of these problems can be achieved by these doctors.

Pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer: Multiple problems pertaining to the pancreas are tended to by these gastro specialists.

Preventative testing: Endoscopy, colonoscopy, ultrasounds, colonography and more may be done as preventative testing.

Malnutrition guidance: Nutritionists may help to sort out feeding and eating problems which have led to a patient becoming malnourished. Malabsorption may be part of the problem, as well.

Esophageal cancer: Cancer of the esophagus is diagnosed and treated within this arena of health care.

Gastrointestinal cancer: These cancers occur in the stomach, rectum, colon and anus.

Liver problems: Liver transplants may be performed by these physicians.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Inflammatory bowel disease is also referred to as IBS. Medications as well as psychosocial counseling often help sufferers of this malady.

Crohn's disease: Drugs and surgery along with lifestyle alterations can be utilized to help with Crohn's disease. Sufferers can still live an active lifestyle.

Colitis: Ulcerative colitis causes swelling of the large intestine and can be very painful. There is no cure but many ways to make sufferers more comfortable.

Difficulty swallowing: Nerve and muscle problems can make swallowing difficult. Two conditions are called oropharyngeal dysphagia and esophageal dysphagia.

Treatment options in gastroenterology and the digestive centers of the body have increased in recent years due to research and technological advancement. Many procedures are less invasive than in the past due to new techniques.

If a patient is having difficulty in any of the above areas, he or she should seek a consultation with a reputable gastroenterology specialist to find answers. Since these are highly specialized physicians, it will be difficult to get word-of-mouth referrals from your average friend or neighbor. For such a practitioner, asking one's family doctor for professionals that they would recommend is one method of obtaining referrals. Calling one's insurance company to see who is covered on their plan is another good idea. Doctor referral resources are also available online in order to help a new patient pre-screen a physician.

About the Author - Dr. Akram Ismail, MD is a Gastroenterology Specialist (Stomach & Bowel Specialist) in Clermont, FL and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from AIN SHAMS University / faculty of medicine in 1981. Practicing as a gastroenterologist in Leesburg, FL, Dr. Akram Ismail treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Akram Ismail affiliates with no hospital, cooperates with many other doctors and specialists in medical group Tri County Professional Management Inc. Dr. Akram Ismail served as President and Senior Associate of Professional Gastroenterology & Surgery Associates in Leesburg, Florida.

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Dr. Akram Ismail - 7 Common Reasons to See a Gastroenterologist

In recent years, the importance of gut health has been widely discussed. While one may think that the term gut is just another word for the stomach, in reality, gut refers to your entire gastrointestinal system. This includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), and biliary system (e.g., liver, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts).

According to Dr. Akram Ismail, Here are seven common reasons you should see a gastroenterologist-who specializes in the treatment of these areas:

1. Heartburn

You may write off heartburn as a normal sign of aging or the result of eating food that is way too spicy, but it could actually be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.  When heartburn lasts more than a few weeks, you should see a gastroenterologist. Over-the-counter medications can provide relief from heartburn, but if you are using these medications more than twice a week, you should consult a physician. Using an endoscope, a gastroenterologist can examine your upper digestive tract to find the source of your discomfort and develop a treatment plan with you.

2. A lump in your throat

A sore throat and difficulty swallowing are common symptoms associated with the common cold or flu. However, if you notice a lump in your throat that is not accompanied by other viral symptoms such as congestion, runny nose or cough, it could be a sign of a digestive problem.

3. Changes in bowel habits

If you notice any changes in your bowel habits, such as the frequency or stool type, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to consult a gastroenterologist to rule out a larger digestive condition.

4. Rectal bleeding

While we’re on the subject of bowels, rectal bleeding is always considered abnormal. Most often blood in the toilet or on the toilet paper when you wipe is caused by hemorrhoids, however, a GI doctor can confirm there is not a more severe underlying condition.

5. Prolonged abdominal pain or bloating

Minor abdominal pain or bloating can be uncomfortable, but when they become frequent or persistent they can start to interfere with daily life. Common causes include diet, stress, or certain medications, as well as a variety of digestive conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or ulcers. A gastroenterologist can help get the root of your problem.

6. Food sensitivities or intolerances

Food allergies, sensitivities and intolerances can lead to adverse reactions such as bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, gas, vomiting and more. A gastroenterologist can test for conditions such as lactose intolerance or Celiac disease (gluten), and develop a treatment plan.

7. Preventative Screenings

A gastroenterologist can look for signs of certain diseases, such as colon cancer, even if you don’t have symptoms. For those at average risk, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPTF) recommends that regular colorectal cancer screenings start at age 50 and continue through age 75. Screenings may include a colonoscopy, imaging scans and/or stool samples.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Akram Ismail as he treats digestive issues, such as irregularity or inflammatory bowel disease.