Tag Archives: gastrointestinal

Volvulus

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Volvulus is a condition that occurs when the intestine twists on itself, obstructing the flow of material through the bowel. This can cut off the blood supply to the intestine. Volvulus is commonly due to a birth defect called malrotation. This complication can cause the intestinal tissue to die, and can lead to the following symptoms:

  • Yellow or green vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Abdominal swelling or distention
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Rapid breathing
  • Bloody stools
  • Constipation
  • Shock

Volvulus of the small intestine usually occurs in infants and children. Children with volvulus may not have long-term problems if the condition is treated promptly. However, surgery is required within hours of the onset of symptoms for this to occur.

Volvulus in adults typically forms in the colon. This is known as sigmoid volvulus.

Some factors that may increase the risk of volvulus include:

  • Chronic constipation
  • A high-fiber diet
  • Past abdominal surgery

Volvulus is diagnosed based on its symptoms, which include abdominal pain, nausea, abdominal distention, constipation, and inability to pass gas. A healthcare provider may suspect volvulus based on the symptoms and begin looking for a possible cause. This can be done by performing a physical exam and ordering:

  • Lab tests
  • CT scan
  • X-rays
  • Contrast enema

Volvulus treatment focuses on two goals, fixing the twisted intestine and preventing future episodes. The process of untwisting the intestines is called “reducing” the volvulus. This requires a flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure, which uses a flexible, tube-like instrument equipped with a light and camera. Inserting and advancing the instrument can help untwist a sigmoid volvulus and restore blood supply while allowing the gastroenterologist to see and assess any tissue damage. This may help determine if surgery is necessary.

If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of volvulus, you can schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center by calling (718) 206-6742.

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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Liver Cirrhosis: Symptoms and Treatment

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Cirrhosis is a slowly progressing disease in which healthy liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue, eventually preventing the liver from functioning properly. The scar tissue blocks the flow of blood through the liver and slows the processing of nutrients, hormones, drugs, and naturally produced toxins. It also slows the production of proteins and other substances made by the liver. According to the National Institutes of Health, cirrhosis is the twelfth leading cause of death by disease.

The symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver vary with the stage of the illness. In the beginning stages, there may not be any symptoms. As the disease worsens, symptoms may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Lack of energy (fatigue), which may be debilitating
  • Weight loss or sudden weight gain
  • Bruises
  • Yellowing of skin or the whites of eyes (jaundice)
  • Itchy skin
  • Fluid retention (edema) and swelling in the ankles, legs, and abdomen (often an early sign)
  • A brownish or orange tint to the urine
  • Light colored stools
  • Confusion, disorientation, personality changes
  • Blood in the stool
  • Fever

Cirrhosis of the liver can be diagnosed through a physical exam, blood tests, biopsy and surgery. During a physical exam, your doctor can observe changes in how your liver feels or how large it is (a cirrhotic liver is bumpy and irregular instead of smooth). If your doctor suspects cirrhosis, you will be given blood tests to find out if liver disease is present. In some cases, cirrhosis is diagnosed during surgery when the doctor is able to see the entire liver. The liver also can be inspected through a laparoscope, a viewing device that is inserted through a tiny incision in the abdomen.

Although there is no cure for cirrhosis of the liver, there are treatments available that can stop or delay its progress, minimize the damage to liver cells, and reduce complications. For cirrhosis caused by alcohol abuse, the person must stop drinking alcohol to halt the progression of cirrhosis. Medications may be given to control the symptoms of cirrhosis. Liver transplantation may be needed for some people with severe cirrhosis.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of liver cirrhosis schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. The Department of Gastroenterology at Jamaica Hospital specializes in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-7001.

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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.