Digestive problems can make living life to its fullest difficult. Although work, travel and socializing have changed dramatically in the past few months, don’t let recent circumstances keep you from getting the digestive care you need to stay physically and emotionally healthy.
An All-Too Common Problem
Nearly one in five of us are affected by some type of digestive disease that prevents our bodies from properly breaking down food into the nutrients needed for energy, growth and cell repair. Common digestive problems include heartburn, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulosis, colon cancer and celiac disease. While some digestive problems last only a short time, others are chronic in that they last longer or recur frequently. Symptoms may include:
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Stomach pain
- Stomach cramps
Don’t Suffer in Silence
Many people with digestive issues suffer in silence because talking about things like bowel habits can be uncomfortable. But AdventHealth’s dedicated digestive health specialists are ready to listen, answer your questions and explain treatment options. Our goal is simple: Diagnose the problem quickly, deliver the care you need and do everything in our power to prevent the problem from happening again.
Safe, Whole-Person Care
There’s no reason to let either potentially awkward conversations or fear keep you from finding a personalized treatment plan that will help you feel your best. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended postponing routine visits or elective procedures earlier this year to prevent the spread of illness and preserve medical supplies, now is the time to start talking with your doctor again about getting the care you need to live an active life. We are taking extraordinary measures to protect you when you visit, so you can feel comfortable taking charge of your health once more.
Our gastroenterologists, radiologists, nutritionists, registered dietitians, exercise physiologists and mental health experts are all available. They’ll provide care using the following enhanced safety strategies:
- Social distancing
- Temperature checks for all employees, patients and visitors
- Universal mask use
- Keeping COVID-19 symptomatic patients separated from other patients
- Visitor restrictions
- Telehealth through your smartphone, tablet or computer when a visit to the doctor’s office or one of our facilities isn’t possible
Managing Your Digestive Health
AdventHealth’s expert digestive care providers will work with you to devise the best treatment plan to get the symptoms of your digestive disorder under control. This includes everything from dietary and lifestyle changes, to medication, to minimally invasive techniques. We also arm you with the knowledge and motivation you need to keep symptoms from coming back, with personalized diet and exercise plans and around-the-clock support.
Keep Stress at Bay
Taking care of your digestive system is just a part of managing your health during these uncertain times. Another important way to do this is to avoid excess anxiety. Stress has a major impact on your gastrointestinal system, and the CDC advises that it’s important to take care of your emotional health during the pandemic. Examples of ways to cope with stress include:
- Connecting with others
- Making time to unwind by doing activities that you enjoy
- Taking breaks from the news, including social media
- Taking care of your body by eating healthy meals, exercising regularly and getting plenty of sleep
You can also keep yourself healthy now by staying home if possible, washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with others, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, using a cloth face mask and covering coughs and sneezes.
When You’re Ready, We’re Here
Your whole health matters more than anything else, so be sure to check in with your doctor for preventive care, treatment and follow-up appointments. Our digestive care experts are available now to give you the safe health care you need at your comfort level. Learn about our comprehensive expertise and schedule an appointment today.
