Prevention & diagnosis of colon disorders saves lives

Colon cancer is one of the nation’s leading cancers, often starting as a benign tumor called a polyp. The removal of colon polyps prevents colon cancer and early diagnosis results in a favorable outcome.

Drs. Mourani and Tarakji perform colonoscopies on a regular basis. This is an outpatient procedure. In most cases, the colonoscopy shows a healthy colon. In some cases, however, the colonoscopy can reveal polyps, inflammation, cancer or other conditions that may require further medical attention. In the unlikely event that your colonoscopy reveals an abnormality, you’ll be in good hands. Drs. Mourani and Tarakji work closely with some of the area’s most experienced and qualified surgeons and will refer you to one, if needed. Here are some of the digestive, colon and rectal conditions that Drs. Mourani and Tarakji can diagnose and treat:

• Colon and rectal polyps and cancers
• Hemorrhoids

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Diverticular disease
• Rectal bleeding and pain
• Constipation & diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fissures and fistulas

Don’t ignore heartburn

Heartburn may be the first sign of a more serious problem, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you have heartburn or acid indigestion more than twice a week, you may have reflux disease. The term “reflux” refers to the upward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Treatment of reflux disease may require more than antacids and over-the-counter medications. A specialist like Dr. Mourani or Dr. Tarakji can accurately diagnose reflux disease and treat your symptoms before they lead to more serious problems.