Blog Archive

Understanding Your Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer Dec 16th, 2024

Thanks to improvements in cancer screening, colorectal cancer deaths are declining in individuals over 50. Unfortunately, while still relatively rare (currently affecting less than 1% of the younger population), colorectal cancer is a growing concern for people under 50. Understanding your risk factors is often essential to early cancer detection...

Diabetes and Chronic Constipation: Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It Nov 11th, 2024

If you’re struggling with diabetes management, you already know it’s a complex disorder that can affect your kidneys, eyesight, circulation, brain, and heart. Add your digestive tract to that list since poorly managed diabetes can lead to significant gastrointestinal issues, including chronic constipation. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo at Hudson...

Heartburn, Acid Reflux, or GERD: What's the Difference? Oct 16th, 2024

Researchers estimate that approximately 60 million people in the United States experience heartburn periodically. Adults, teens, and even infants are vulnerable to the burning chest discomfort that can make life miserable for a time. Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology can help. Read what they say...

5 Lifestyle Habits for Better Digestive Health Sep 18th, 2024

Fortunately, maintaining good digestive health is typically simple, requiring a few healthy habits to keep the system running smoothly. Adopting these lifestyle changes can also benefit overall health and well-being. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo at Hudson River Gastroenterology serves NYC with expert care for digestive ailments such as acid...

How to Determine and Manage Your IBS Triggers Aug 15th, 2024

The American College of Gastroenterology estimates that 10-15% of people in the United States are living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Symptoms range from abdominal cramping and bloating to diarrhea versus constipation and moderate to severe belly pain. Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology specialize in...

Encouraging Facts About a Crohn's Disease Diagnosis Jul 15th, 2024

The landscape of Crohn's disease treatment has dramatically evolved over the past few decades. New medications, including biologics, target specific pathways involved in the inflammatory process, leading to better control of symptoms and disease progression. Personalized medicine is also making strides, offering treatments tailored to an individual’s unique needs. Dr....

5 Ways to Make Your Colonoscopy Prep Easier Jun 24th, 2024

Although it’s not likely to make anyone’s favorite things list, a screening colonoscopy is crucial for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. For many people, the most dreaded part of preparing for a colonoscopy is the cleansing process beforehand,...

What Are Colon Polyps and Why Should They Be Removed? May 9th, 2024

Although most colon polyps aren’t malignant (cancerous), some types can develop into cancer over time. Most notably, all colorectal cancer starts as a polyp.  Like any cancer, colorectal cancer is best treated in its earliest stages, before the cancer cells have time to grow and spread. Additionally, depending on the...

Can Hemorrhoids Be Prevented? Apr 5th, 2024

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause itching, bleeding, and mild to severe pain. The good news? Yes, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing hemorrhoids. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo at Hudson River Gastroenterology doesn’t mind discussing hemorrhoids, including...

Soothing Care Strategies After You've Suffered a Bout of Diarrhea Mar 15th, 2024

Diarrhea is a common symptom of viral infections, food intolerances, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and numerous other conditions that can cause loose, watery stools that may occur multiple times a day. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo and our team at Hudson River Gastroenterology specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that...

Which Foods Are Triggering My Acid Reflux? Feb 9th, 2024

Nearly everyone can expect to experience an occasional bout of acid reflux. Commonly tagged as “heartburn,” acid reflux occurs when stomach acids wash upward into the esophagus and throat. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive disorders like acid...

Understanding the Dangers of Chronic Constipation Jan 12th, 2024

While a bout of constipation now and then might seem like a minor inconvenience, persistent constipation can lead to a cascade of health problems. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology offer these guidelines regarding the causes and dangers of chronic constipation and when to...

Ways to Avoid a Crohn's Flare-Up Over the Holidays Dec 13th, 2023

The foods you eat, the amount of stress in your life, or abrupt changes in your routine won’t cause Crohn’s. However, all three can incite a flare-up that can last throughout the holidays. Dr. Prem Chattoo and his team at Hudson River Gastroenterology offer these practical tips for avoiding a...

When Does Diarrhea Require a Medical Evaluation? Nov 13th, 2023

The potential causes of diarrhea can include anything from a viral illness to a parasitic infection to overindulging in your favorite dessert. It may also be related to chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a medication you take regularly. So, how do you know when to see a...

Know the Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screenings: A Colonoscopy Can Save Your Life Oct 6th, 2023

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in the United States. However, a colonoscopy can detect colorectal cancer at an early stage when treatment outcomes are typically most successful.  Even better, a colonoscopy offers your specialist a chance to identify and remove abnormal colon tissue before...

What to Eat During an IBS Diarrhea Flare-Up Sep 5th, 2023

Living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be unpredictable and frustrating. Whether you’re experiencing IBS-D (diarrhea predominant) or another type of IBS, diet plays a major role in preventing and controlling flare-ups. That’s why Dr. Prem Chattoo at Hudson River Gastroenterology includes dietary guidelines when treating individuals with IBS. When you’re experiencing a flare-up,...

When to Schedule Your First Colonoscopy Aug 7th, 2023

Colonoscopies are crucial in detecting abnormalities in the bowel that indicate an increased risk of colon cancer. However, getting the timing right for your first test is just as critical. Waiting too long could negate its early detection benefits. Dr. Prem Chattoo is a board-certified gastroenterologist in practice at Hudson...

Little Known Signs of Crohn's Disease Jul 7th, 2023

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect children and adults. Poorly managed or undiagnosed Crohn’s can lead to significant health complications, including bowel obstruction, anemia, and malnutrition. Fortunately, a personalized treatment plan that includes medication and lifestyle modifications can send Crohn’s into long-term remission, significantly...

5 Digestive Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore Jun 1st, 2023

The digestive system plays a crucial role in your overall health and well-being by breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. With all the work your digestive system does, it’s likely to experience an occasional glitch every now and then. Mild nausea, an occasional bout of constipation, or a...

How to Know If Your Constipation Requires a Medical Evaluation May 9th, 2023

Constipation is a common condition that can cause significant gassy discomfort, bloating, and inconvenience, but it’s not typically a serious health concern. However, frequent or long-term constipation sometimes indicates your digestive system is struggling to function normally. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Prem Chattoo at Hudson River Gastroenterology in New York City answers questions about...

What Is the Low-FODMAP Diet and Can It Help My IBS Symptoms? Apr 11th, 2023

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that may affect as many as 45 million people in the United States. Fortunately, it doesn’t increase your risk of colorectal cancer since it doesn’t alter bowel tissue. Unfortunately, once you develop IBS, it’s a lifelong condition that can begin at...

What’s the Difference Between Heartburn, Acid Reflux, and GERD? Mar 8th, 2023

It’s hard to ignore heartburn, which can affect anyone of any age and has nothing to do with your heart. Instead, it’s a symptom of a sometimes temporary, sometimes long-term (chronic) problem in your digestive system that may require attention from a specialist. Prem Chattoo, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist...

How to Prevent Colon Cancer Feb 16th, 2023

Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Keep in mind, however, that you can take steps to reduce your risk of adding to that statistic.  Colon cancer most often starts as a polyp, which is a small growth. Screening for precancerous growths is the...