Service Area FAQs

Colonoscopy FAQs

What age should you get a colonoscopy?

Updated guidelines from the American Cancer Society now recommend that adults at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or previous polyps, your doctor may recommend starting even earlier.

How long does a colonoscopy take?

The colonoscopy procedure itself typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. You should plan to be at the facility for approximately 2 to 3 hours to allow time for check-in, sedation, the procedure, and recovery before you are cleared to go home.

Is a colonoscopy covered by insurance?

For patients who meet the age and risk criteria for preventive screening, colonoscopy is covered as a preventive service by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, with no out-of-pocket cost. Coverage for diagnostic colonoscopies may differ. Palmetto GI’s billing team will verify your specific coverage before your procedure.

What is the prep for a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy prep involves eating only clear liquids the day before your procedure and drinking a bowel preparation solution to completely clear the colon. Most preps are split into two doses — one the evening before and one early on the morning of the procedure. Palmetto GI provides complete written prep instructions and a team member is available to answer questions.

Can you have a colonoscopy without a referral?

Yes. Many patients schedule a colonoscopy directly with Palmetto GI without a primary care referral, particularly for routine screening. If your insurance requires a referral, our team can help coordinate with your primary care physician.

GERD and Acid Reflux FAQs

What is the difference between acid reflux and GERD?

Acid reflux is the occasional backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing heartburn or a sour taste in the mouth. GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a chronic condition in which acid reflux occurs frequently — typically more than twice per week — and causes ongoing irritation or damage to the esophagus. GERD requires medical evaluation and management.

When should I see a GI doctor for acid reflux?

You should see a GI specialist if your heartburn or reflux symptoms occur more than twice a week, do not improve with over-the-counter medications, are accompanied by difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or unintended weight loss, or if you have been taking acid-reducing medications for more than two weeks without relief.

Can GERD lead to more serious conditions?

Yes. Chronic, untreated GERD can lead to esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), esophageal stricture (narrowing), or Barrett’s esophagus — a condition that increases the risk of esophageal cancer. This is why evaluation and management of persistent reflux symptoms is important.

What treatments are available for GERD?

Treatment for GERD typically begins with lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, weight management, and avoiding triggers. Medications including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are commonly prescribed. In some cases, procedures such as fundoplication or LINX device placement may be recommended. Your Palmetto GI physician will work with you to find the right approach.

IBS and IBD FAQs

What is the difference between IBS and IBD?

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a functional GI disorder characterized by recurring abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits without visible inflammation or structural damage to the bowel. IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) — which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis — involves chronic inflammation of the digestive tract that can be seen and confirmed through diagnostic testing. IBD is considered a more serious condition and typically requires ongoing medical management.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

Common symptoms of IBS include recurring abdominal cramping or pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both. Symptoms are often triggered by certain foods, stress, or hormonal changes. While IBS does not cause permanent damage to the bowel, it can significantly affect quality of life.

How is IBS diagnosed?

There is no single test for IBS. Diagnosis is typically made based on a thorough review of symptoms, medical history, and physical examination, often using the Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Your gastroenterologist may also order tests to rule out other conditions such as celiac disease, IBD, or infection before confirming an IBS diagnosis.

Can IBD be cured?

There is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, but both conditions can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan. Options include medications (aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, biologics), dietary management, and in some cases surgery. With proper management, most patients with IBD can achieve long periods of remission and a good quality of life.

Hemorrhoid FAQs

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus, similar to varicose veins. They are most commonly caused by increased pressure during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or a low-fiber diet. They are extremely common — nearly 3 in 4 adults will experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.

When should I see a doctor for hemorrhoids?

You should see a doctor if you experience rectal bleeding (even a small amount), pain or discomfort in the anal area, a lump or swelling, or if hemorrhoid symptoms have persisted for more than a week without improvement. Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated to rule out other causes.

What treatments are available for hemorrhoids?

Mild hemorrhoids often respond to conservative measures including increased fiber and fluid intake, sitz baths, and over-the-counter treatments. For persistent or severe hemorrhoids, office-based procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation may be recommended. Surgical options are available for more complex cases. Dr. Feussner at Palmetto GI specializes in hemorrhoid evaluation and treatment.

Liver Health FAQs

What are the warning signs of liver disease?

In early stages, liver disease often has no symptoms. As it progresses, warning signs may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, abdominal swelling, easy bruising, itchy skin, or nausea. Because symptoms can be subtle, regular evaluation is important for those at risk.

Who is at risk for liver disease?

Risk factors for liver disease include heavy or long-term alcohol use, obesity and metabolic syndrome (a major driver of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD), type 2 diabetes, chronic hepatitis B or C infection, family history of liver disease, and long-term use of certain medications. Dr. Vora at Palmetto GI specializes in the relationship between metabolic health and liver disease.

What is fatty liver disease and can it be reversed?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver in people who drink little to no alcohol. It is strongly associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. In its early stages, NAFLD can often be reversed through weight loss, dietary changes, and improved metabolic control. Without intervention, it can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, or cirrhosis.

Does Palmetto GI treat liver disease?

Yes. Palmetto GI provides comprehensive evaluation and management of liver conditions including fatty liver disease, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and abnormal liver enzyme levels. Dr. Haily Vora has a special interest in the relationship between metabolic health and GI and liver disease. If you have been told you have elevated liver enzymes or are at risk for liver disease, a gastroenterology consultation is an important first step.

Endoscopy FAQs

What is an upper endoscopy?

An upper endoscopy (also called an EGD — esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is gently passed through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper portion of the small intestine. It is used to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions such as GERD, ulcers, Barrett’s esophagus, celiac disease, and unexplained bleeding.

How is an endoscopy different from a colonoscopy?

Both procedures use a flexible scope with a camera, but they examine different parts of the digestive tract. An upper endoscopy examines the upper GI tract (esophagus, stomach, small intestine), entered through the mouth. A colonoscopy examines the lower GI tract (colon and rectum), entered through the rectum. Both are performed under sedation.

Is sedation used for endoscopy?

Yes. Both upper endoscopy and colonoscopy are performed with sedation so that patients are comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure. You will need a driver to take you home afterward, as sedation impairs your ability to drive for the remainder of the day.