Articles tagged with Digestive Disorders
A new study found that exposure to dogs, particularly from ages 5 to 15, was linked to healthy gut permeability and balance in the gut microbiome. Additionally, growing up in a large family with three or more siblings may also provide protection against Crohn's disease by influencing microbiome composition.
A new study suggests that growing up with dogs and in large families may lower the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. Exposure to dogs, particularly between ages 5-15, was linked to healthy gut permeability and a balanced immune response, which may help protect against Crohn's disease.
Patients who use cannabis require more drugs than non-users during gastric endoscopies, according to a study. Researchers found that cannabis use was associated with increased odds of requiring higher sedation levels during gastroscopy but not colonoscopy.
A study of 2.3 million patient records found that antibiotic use was associated with a higher risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease in seniors, particularly those who received multiple courses. The risk increased substantially with each course of antibiotics prescribed.
A new study found that lean individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease compared to those who are overweight or obese. Despite having lower risks for other metabolic and cardiovascular conditions, lean patients with NAFLD were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
Research suggests gallstone disease may be an early indicator of pancreatic cancer, with patients having gallstones nearly six times more likely to develop the disease. This association could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, potentially improving survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients.
Adults aged 45-64 experienced a nearly doubled rate of esophageal cancer and a 50% increase in Barrett's esophagus between 2012 and 2019. Researchers recommend more frequent screening for middle-aged patients with multiple risk factors.
Researchers have engineered bacteria to act as data loggers, capturing gene activity and metabolic responses in the gut. This allows for non-invasive monitoring of gut health and dietary status, enabling early diagnosis of malnutrition and inflammatory responses.
Most swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) resolve within two months after spine surgery, but perception may persist for longer. Patients with chronic increased neck tissue thickness do not show impairments on x-ray testing despite dysphagia symptoms.
Researchers found that women are less likely to undergo common heart procedures and more likely to die in the hospital after receiving them. The study analyzed data from over 2 million hospitalizations for heart procedures between 2016 and 2019, revealing significant disparities in treatment and outcomes based on sex and race.
Researchers discovered that the levels of Piezo2 decrease with age and its removal from gut serotonin cells slows down gut motility in mice, causing constipation. This finding could be a contributing factor to age-related constipation and provide a path to treatment.
Researchers found that long-term daily cocoa consumption didn't improve exercise-induced digestive issues in male athletes. Only minor changes to their gut microbiomes were observed, indicating cocoa is not an effective exercise supplement.
A recent study identified specific RNA biomarkers linked to gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism. The findings could lead to the development of personalized treatments to ease the pain of these individuals. The research has implications for precision medicine, enabling healthcare providers to track medication effectiveness...
Researchers at MUSC found that fungal infections are common in cirrhosis patients, often resistant to antibiotics. Patients with cirrhosis are immunocompromised and need proactive infection management.
A new review suggests that moderate coffee consumption can stimulate digestive processes and help movement through the colon. The study also found a possible association between coffee consumption and reduced risk of gallstones and certain liver diseases. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has released two new clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and management of diverticulitis. The guidelines recommend that clinicians manage most patients with uncomplicated disease in outpatient settings without antibiotics, while patients with complicated disease should be referred for colonos...
A study by Kennedy Krieger Institute explores how GI problems in children with autism affect their families. Researchers identified four main themes: anxiety, diet, microbiome imbalance, and medication impact. The findings highlight the need for interventions to address poor gut health and its consequences.
Cleveland Clinic researchers have identified the gut microbial gene cluster responsible for converting carnitine into TMAO, which promotes heart disease and stroke. The study found that dietary modifications may help reduce diet- and TMAO-associated cardiovascular disease risk by targeting the gbu gene cluster.
Research from MUSC suggests that physicians should be cautious when using laboratory tests to diagnose alcoholic cirrhosis due to false negative results. Patients with advanced liver disease often show subtle signs and symptoms in the early stages of cirrhosis.
A multi-national survey of nearly 6,000 people found that gas-related symptoms are a common experience for most adults, with almost eight out of ten reporting symptoms in the previous 24 hours. The study also showed that these symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life and mental health, particularly among younger people.
Aging significantly alters the small bowel microbiome, leading to critical changes. Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center examined age-related shifts in the gut microbiome, highlighting the importance of understanding these changes.
Researchers identified predictive molecular biomarkers for non-response to anti-TNF and anti-integrin therapies in UC. Biomarkers in innate and adaptive immune systems, as well as proteolytic degradation, were found to be predictive of therapy non-response.
A study found IBS patients' symptoms decreased during the pandemic due to lower stress and more control over diet. The results support the gut-brain axis theory in functional gastrointestinal disorders, highlighting psychosocial factors' role in triggering symptoms.
A study found daily probiotic use was associated with a 27% lower incidence of upper respiratory tract symptoms in overweight and obese individuals. This suggests a potential role for probiotics in preventing respiratory infections in this vulnerable population.
A large-scale study found that following specific guidelines, including regular exercise and a prudent diet, can lower GERD symptoms by 37% in women. Adhering to these lifestyle factors can also reduce the need for medication.
Researchers used computer simulations to show that flushing toilets can create a cloud of virus-containing aerosol droplets that rise high above the seat and last for over a minute. Closing the lid before flushing or using an automatic lid system could help reduce aerosol spread.
MUSC has established two new centers to support digestive and liver disease research, providing stable funding to over 30 investigators and creating a pipeline for future researchers. The centers aim to foster multidisciplinary collaborations and provide necessary resources for cutting-edge research.
A new report from the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee suggests that coffee consumption may have beneficial effects on digestion, including reducing the risk of gallstone disease and pancreatitis. Moderate coffee consumption is also associated with improved gut motility and supporting beneficial gut bacteria.
A study published at Digestive Disease Week found that nearly 83% of 9/11 first responders had fatty liver disease, compared to 24-45% in the general population. The research highlights the link between toxin exposure and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among first responders.
Researchers at the Australian Centre for Digestive Diseases have successfully treated Crohn's disease in patients, achieving prolonged remission of 3-23 years. The treatment uses a combination of specific antibiotics and Faecal Microbiota Transfer (FMT) to repopulate the gut with healthy bacteria.
A new study suggests that investigational drug IW-3718 can reduce the severity of heartburn symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) when combined with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). The study, conducted by Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, found significant r...
A nationwide survey of over 71,000 people found that more than half of GERD patients who took proton pump inhibitors still reported persistent symptoms. The study also identified categories of people less likely to respond to the medication, including younger people and those with irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease.
A recent study from the University of South Australia has found a causal relationship between depression and 20 distinct diseases, including respiratory, heart, and digestive issues. This research can help detect and manage high rates of physical illnesses in people diagnosed with depression.
A 30-day Ramadan fast has shown promising implications for timing and duration between meals, increasing proteins that play a crucial role in improving insulin resistance. The study suggests dawn-to-sunset fasting could provide a cost-effective intervention for those struggling with obesity-related conditions.
Researchers from Baylor Scott & White's Center for Esophageal Research will discuss their groundbreaking research on Barrett's Esophagus and Eosinophilic Esophagitis. The center is conducting innovative, translational research to advance understanding of esophageal diseases and improve treatment for patients.
Researchers found a clear association between appendix removal and development of Parkinson's disease, with patients being over three times more likely to develop the condition. The study analyzed over 62 million patient records and found similar risk levels across all age groups.
A pilot study at the Medical University of South Carolina found that peppermint oil improved symptoms of esophagus disorders, including difficulty swallowing and non-cardiac chest pain. The study showed a significant improvement in symptoms among patients with spastic disorders of the esophagus.
A recent study published in Addiction found that abstainers had a higher risk of sickness absence due to mental disorders, while at-risk drinkers were more prone to absence due to injury or poisoning. The U-shaped association suggests different underlying health issues for the two groups.
Researchers developed an acoustic belt that uses machine learning techniques to identify complex features and patterns of bowel sounds. The preliminary results showed high accuracy in predicting IBS with sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 92%. This new technology may offer a less-invasive way to diagnose the painful condition.
A study published at Digestive Disease Week found that altruism is the most common appeal to encourage people to donate their stool, while economic compensation is also a motivator. The research aimed to understand what drives individuals to become stool donors for fecal microbiota transplant therapy.
A study using oral-delayed release methylene blue during colonoscopy found a 56.3% detection rate for adenomas and carcinomas, nearly 9% higher than the standard of care. The tablet form reduces inconvenience and safety risks while improving adenoma detection rates.
Liver transplant centers are increasingly accepting transplants for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis, showing positive outcomes and high one-year survival rates of over 90%. Centers use selective criteria to evaluate candidates, assessing medical history, social support, and psychiatric disorders.
A major new study confirms that drinking during late adolescence can predict the risk of developing liver disease later in life. The study found that even low levels of daily alcohol consumption can lead to severe liver disease in men, suggesting that current guidelines for safe drinking may need to be revised.
Researchers found that patients with Crohn's disease have higher levels of fungus Candida tropicalis compared to healthy family members. Antifungals and probiotics could help restore balance to the microbiome, reducing inflammation.
A new study from Washington University School of Medicine links popular heartburn drugs to an increased risk of death, particularly among those using the medications for extended periods. The research found that users of proton pump inhibitors had a 25% higher risk of death compared to those taking H2 blockers.
A new ambulatory monitoring device tracks gastric slow waves in patients with gastroparesis, enabling better understanding of the condition and its treatment. The device offers a window into stomach bioelectrical activity, revolutionizing digestive disease diagnosis and treatment.
A new study demonstrates an autonomously controlled 18-mm magnetized capsule colonoscope that successfully performed intricate maneuvers inside the colon. Researchers believe this technology will improve the acceptance and accuracy of colonoscopies.
A study of 125,000 patients found that more than half with chronic kidney damage took PPIs without acute problems, highlighting the need for vigilance in monitoring kidney function. Doctors advise caution and only prescribe when necessary due to significant risks of kidney deterioration.
Research reveals that depression is linked to arthritis and digestive system diseases, while anxiety disorders are followed by skin diseases. A strong association was also found between epilepsy and eating disorders.
Research found that using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) increased the risk of ischemic stroke by 21 percent, with highest risks seen at higher doses of these commonly prescribed heartburn medications.
The university is studying how the disorder affects Hispanics and others, while also providing healthcare to more patients through free health services. The team will enroll patients to test a new drug and examine a novel diagnostic procedure for gastroparesis.
Researchers at McGill University found that taking beta blockers can increase the success rate of dental implants by up to 89%, while avoiding heartburn medication may also improve results. The study involved over 700 patients and confirmed its findings in rat studies.
A new study suggests that CPAP therapy may help improve nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The mean heartburn score decreased by 62 percent among sleep apnea patients who were adherent to CPAP therapy.
A clinical trial conducted by Michigan Medicine demonstrated the effectiveness of a low FODMAP diet in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study found that over 50% of patients on the low FODMAP diet experienced major improvements in abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and stool urgency compared to the control group.
A randomized controlled trial found that single covered, self-expanding metallic stents (cSEMS) resolved benign obstructions of the pancreatic and biliary ducts with fewer ERCP sessions, compared to traditional plastic stents. cSEMS were also more effective in achieving stricture resolution within 181 days.
The Saban Research Institute at Children's Hospital Los Angeles has received a $7.1 million grant from the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine to develop an 'off-the-shelf' cellular therapy for enteric neuropathies, which affect the digestive system. The goal is to create nerve cells from human induced pluripotent cells to tr...
Proton pump inhibitors are associated with rare but serious adverse effects, including heart attack, Clostridium difficile infection, and malabsorption of vitamin B12. Physicians should prescribe at the lowest dose possible and for the shortest length of time to minimize these risks.
A small study found that longer, more comprehensive interactions with complementary and integrative medicine providers significantly improve GERD symptoms. Patients receiving expanded physician visits reported greater symptom relief compared to conventional visits.
A large data-mining study by Stanford University School of Medicine has linked proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) to an elevated risk of heart attack. The study found a 20% increase in the rate of subsequent heart-attack risk among all adult PPI users, even when excluding those also taking clopidogrel.
A study conducted at Virginia Mason Medical Center found that computer-assisted propofol sedation can reduce recovery room time for patients by almost 20%, compared to traditional midazolam and fentanyl sedation. The new method, known as CAPS, also shows higher patient satisfaction scores.