The digestive tract or also known as the gastrointestinal (GI) system plays an essential role in your overall health. Often, imbalances in the digestive system lead to symptoms elsewhere in the body, including the nervous system, immune system, and skin.

This system is also called “the second brain” of the body, because the lining houses hundreds of millions of neurons which manage the digestive process from swallowing to nutrient absorption to elimination. Cells in the gut lining also produce 95% of the serotonin in our bodies (aka mood booster). The GI system acts as a communication center to the brain. When we’re stressed, scared, or nervous, our brain notifies our gut, and we may experience abdominal symptoms. Additionally, the gut lining houses more immune cells than the rest of the body, defending us against viruses and bacteria.

Dr. Threasa Andrys excels at treating GI conditions. She often finds that most everyone needs some level of work on their digestive health.

Constipation

Diarrhea

IBS

Foul Smelling Gas

Burping

Bloating

Bad Breath

Cramping

Acid reflux or Burning

Lack of Appetite

Nausea

Itching

Swollen Tongue or Thick White Coating

Difficulty Losing Weight

The health of this complex and essential body system relies on a combination of whole-body variables, including proper enzymatic function, nutrient absorption, microbiota (the body’s natural microorganisms) balance, tissue health, and elimination of waste. The ultimate goal is to have a digestive system that is functioning optimally. Dr. Threasa Andrys assess whether the GI system is performing at a level of optimal function, essential function, or dysfunction.

Dr Threasa Andrys will assess overall function by a detailed health history, physical exam and visceral assessment in office.

Tests will be individualized, and may include: stool testing for healthy or disease causing bacteria, yeasts, markers of inflammation, blood, pancreatic enzyme levels, and immune markers. She may also order blood tests for food intolerances/allergies, celiac antibodies, hormonal and inflammatory indicators, nutritional deficiencies, diabetes indicators, liver function, and more.

Concern for a more serious underlying condition may result in a referral for colonoscopy or other diagnostic imaging work.