Digestive and Liver Health Specialists

Fecal Incontinence Treatment in Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro & Surrounding Areas

wgpro — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:18:41 +0000

Struggling with fecal incontinence? You’re not alone. Millions of people face challenges with bowel control, causing discomfort and interfering with daily life. At Digestive Liver & Health Specialists, we provide advanced, effective treatments to help you regain control, confidence, and a better quality of life.

We proudly serve patients in:

Nashville
Clarksville
Murfreesboro
Hendersonville
Smyrna
Lebanon
Gallatin
Spring Hill
Brentwood

Dr. Sharma: Leading Expert in Fecal Incontinence Care

Dr. Sharma is a highly skilled specialist in fecal incontinence treatment, offering the sacral neuromodulation (SNM) therapy. This FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure restores bowel control by stimulating the sacral nerves, helping reduce accidents, urgency, and discomfort associated with fecal incontinence.

Why Choose Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) for Fecal Incontinence?

✅ Over 80% success rate in symptom improvement or complete resolution of fecal incontinence

✅ Up to 90% long-term success in maintaining bowel control

✅ Minimally invasive and performed in an outpatient setting for lasting relief

✅ Helps restore confidence, reduce urgency, and improve quality of life

Get Relief from Fecal Incontinence Today

Don’t let fecal incontinence control your life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sharma at one of our Middle Tennessee locations and find the right solution tailored to your needs. Call now or book online to start your journey toward improved bowel health and regain control over your life!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Fast, Convenient Gastroenterology Care in Rutherford County

wgpro — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:36:43 +0000

At Nashville Gastroenterology and Hepatology, we understand that when digestive issues arise, you need quick access to expert care. That’s why we offer fast appointment scheduling, efficient endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures, and prompt follow-up to ensure you receive the care you need without long wait times.

Quick Appointments & Same-Week Availability

Waiting weeks or months to see a specialist can be frustrating. That’s why our Rutherford County location in Murfreesboro prioritizes quick appointments, often with same-week availability for patients in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, and Eagleville.

Whether you’re experiencing acid reflux, abdominal pain, bloating, or digestive discomfort, our team, including Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD, is committed to seeing you as soon as possible to provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Convenient & Efficient Colonoscopy & Endoscopy Services

Preventative screenings and diagnostic procedures shouldn’t be a hassle. At our Murfreesboro location, we offer:

✅ Quick & Easy Colonoscopy Scheduling – Essential for colon cancer prevention

✅ Efficient Endoscopy Services – Helping diagnose acid reflux, ulcers, and digestive disorders

✅ Fast Turnaround Times – Minimizing disruptions to your daily routine

Our goal is to make your procedure as smooth and stress-free as possible, ensuring you receive high-quality care with minimal downtime.

Prompt Follow-Up & Patient-Focused Care

We believe that follow-up care is just as important as the initial diagnosis. That’s why our team ensures:

???? Timely test results – So you’re not left waiting for answers

???? Clear communication – We explain findings in a way that’s easy to understand

???? Customized treatment plans – Tailored to your specific digestive health needs

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you need quick, expert GI care in Rutherford County, we’re here for you. Patients in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, and nearby areas can schedule an appointment today with Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD.

Don’t wait—early diagnosis and treatment make all the difference!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Expert Gastroenterology Care in Rutherford County with Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD

wgpro — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:24:57 +0000

When it comes to expert digestive health care in Rutherford County, Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD, stands out as a leading gastroenterologist dedicated to providing exceptional care. Seeing patients three times a week in Murfreesboro, Dr. Pointer, MD, specializes in treating IBD (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), liver disease, Comprehensive GI Care Close to Home.

Patients in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, Eagleville, and surrounding Rutherford County communities have convenient access to Dr. Pointer, MD’s expertise. Whether you need routine colon cancer screening, management of chronic GI conditions, or specialized care for IBD and liver disease, Dr. Pointer, MD, provides personalized, compassionate treatment tailored to each patient’s needs.

Why Choose Dr. Pointer, MD?

✅ Expert in Women’s Digestive Health – Specializing in GI conditions that uniquely impact women

✅ Convenient Location in Murfreesboro – Easily accessible for Rutherford County residents

✅ Advanced Treatment for IBD & Liver Disease – Leading care for Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, and liver conditions

✅ Comprehensive Preventative Care – Including colon cancer screenings and acid reflux treatment

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, La Vergne, or nearby areas and need expert gastroenterology care, schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Gastroenterology Care in Murfreesboro, TN – Comprehensive Digestive Health Services

wgpro — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:34:09 +0000

We are thrilled to announce that our gastroenterology clinic in Murfreesboro, TN, is now open multiple times per week to serve the digestive health needs of the community. Our experienced providers are here to offer a full range of gastroenterology services designed to address both routine and complex digestive concerns.

Our clinic covers all aspects of GI care, including:

- Colonoscopy and Endoscopy Services: Early detection of colorectal cancer, polyps, and other gastrointestinal conditions through arranging screening colonoscopies and upper endoscopies.

- Management of Chronic GI Conditions: Comprehensive care for patients dealing with long-term conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease.

- Liver Health and Hepatology: Diagnosis and management of liver disorders such as fatty liver disease, MASH, NASH, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

- Reflux and Heartburn Treatment: Evaluation and treatment for acid reflux, GERD, and other esophageal conditions such as difficulty with swallowing.

- Women's Digestive Health: We take pride in understanding the unique digestive health needs of female patients. We offer a specialized approach to care for women, with a team that includes female providers who are experts in diagnosing and managing common GI concerns specific to women.

With many decades of combined patient care experience, our team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care. Whether you need preventive screenings, treatment for a chronic condition, or personalized digestive care, we are proud to serve the Murfreesboro community with the very best in GI healthcare.

If you’re in the Murfreesboro area and have any gastroenterology needs, we’re here for you—every step of the way!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Gastroenterology Care in Clarksville, TN – Comprehensive Digestive Health Services

wgpro — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:33:08 +0000

We are thrilled to announce that our gastroenterology clinic in Clarksville, TN, is now open multiple times per week to serve the digestive health needs of the community. Our experienced providers are here to offer a full range of gastroenterology services designed to address both routine and complex digestive concerns.

Our clinic covers all aspects of GI care, including:

- Colonoscopy and Endoscopy Services: Early detection of colorectal cancer, polyps, and other gastrointestinal conditions through arranging screening colonoscopies and upper endoscopies.

- Liver Health and Hepatology: Diagnosis and management of liver disorders such as fatty liver disease, MASH, NASH, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

- Reflux and Heartburn Treatment: Evaluation and treatment for acid reflux, GERD, and other esophageal conditions such as difficulty with swallowing.

With over 40 years of combined patient care experience, our team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care. Whether you need preventive screenings, treatment for a chronic condition, or personalized digestive care, we are proud to serve the Clarksville community with the very best in GI healthcare.

If you’re in the Clarksville area and have any gastroenterology needs, we’re here for you—every step of the way!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

The post Gastroenterology Care in Clarksville, TN – Comprehensive Digestive Health Services appeared first on Digestive and Liver Health Specialists.

Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD: Comprehensive Gastroenterology Care in Murfreesboro, TN

wgpro — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:31:40 +0000

We are proud to highlight Dr. Stephanie Pointer, MD, who is seeing patients multiple times per week in Murfreesboro, TN. Dr. Pointer brings a wealth of expertise in treating a wide range of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, serving the diverse digestive health needs of the community.

While Dr. Pointer has a special interest in managing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, her practice covers all facets of GI health. From common issues like acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and colon cancer screening to more complex digestive and liver disorders, she provides comprehensive care for her patients. In addition, she is dedicated to addressing the unique digestive health needs of women, offering personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal health outcomes.

Dr. Pointer’s combination of expertise and compassionate care makes her a valuable resource for anyone seeking expert GI care. Whether you need help managing a chronic condition or are looking for preventative services, Dr. Pointer is available multiple times a week to assist you in achieving better digestive health.

Schedule your appointment today and experience personalized, expert gastroenterology care!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Weight Loss – Future

SEO User — Sun, 05 May 2024 05:25:52 +0000

Exploring Future Weight Loss Medications: Promising Innovations for Healthier Living

In the realm of weight loss, the horizon is bright with promise as researchers develop new medications aimed at revolutionizing obesity management. Over the next 1-2 years, breakthrough drugs are poised to emerge, offering benefits that extend beyond shedding pounds. These innovative therapies not only help in preserving lean muscle mass but also hold the potential to increase human health span—a testament to the remarkable strides in medical science. Let's delve into the exciting advancements in weight loss medications and their transformative impact on health and well-being.

A Glimpse into the Future:

Imagine a world where weight loss medications not only trim excess fat but also preserve vital lean muscle mass, fostering a healthier body composition. This vision is on the brink of becoming a reality with the development of next-generation weight loss drugs. Unlike conventional approaches that often result in muscle loss alongside fat reduction, these novel therapies target adipose tissue while safeguarding precious muscle mass. Here's why this is a game-changer:

Preservation of Lean Muscle Mass:

Maintaining lean muscle mass is essential for overall health and metabolic function. Traditional weight loss methods, such as crash diets or extreme exercise regimens, often lead to muscle wasting—a phenomenon with detrimental consequences. However, the upcoming wave of weight loss medications is designed to preserve lean muscle tissue, ensuring that the body remains metabolically active and functional throughout the weight loss journey. By retaining muscle mass, individuals can experience:

1. Enhanced Metabolic Efficiency: Lean muscle mass contributes to a higher resting metabolic rate, enabling the body to burn calories more effectively even at rest. By preserving muscle tissue, these medications support sustainable weight loss and metabolic health.

2. Improved Physical Performance: Muscles are the engines that power movement and activity. Preserving muscle mass ensures that individuals maintain strength, agility, and mobility, enhancing their ability to engage in physical activities and enjoy an active lifestyle.

3. Long-Term Weight Maintenance: Unlike crash diets that result in weight regain once the diet ends, preserving lean muscle mass promotes sustainable weight loss maintenance. With a higher proportion of muscle to fat, individuals are better equipped to maintain their weight loss achievements over time.

Promoting Human Health Span:

Beyond the scale, the true measure of success lies in enhancing overall health span—the period of life characterized by vitality, vigor, and freedom from chronic diseases. The new generation of weight loss medications aims to achieve just that by addressing obesity-related metabolic imbalances and promoting optimal health outcomes. By targeting underlying mechanisms of disease and fostering healthier body composition, these medications offer a pathway to:

1. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Obesity is a significant risk factor for a myriad of chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. By promoting weight loss and metabolic health, these medications help mitigate the risk of obesity-related comorbidities, leading to improved long-term health outcomes.

2. Enhanced Quality of Life: Living at a healthy weight isn't just about aesthetics—it's about feeling vibrant and empowered to pursue the things that matter most. By promoting health span, these medications empower individuals to lead active, fulfilling lives free from the burden of obesity-related health complications.

Join the Journey Towards Better Health:

Excited to be at the forefront of these groundbreaking advancements in weight loss therapy? You can be among the first to experience the transformative benefits of these innovative medications by participating in upcoming research studies. Our weight loss page offers information on how to join our clinical trials and be part of the pioneering efforts to shape the future of obesity management. Visit TheGI Docs Clinical Trials - Obesity & Weight Loss Support to learn more and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Diverticulitis and Diarrhea

SEO User — Sun, 05 May 2024 05:02:12 +0000

Understanding Recurrent Diverticulitis and Chronic Diarrhea: Solutions and Dietary Tips

If you've been dealing with recurrent diverticulitis, you might have noticed another unwelcome visitor: chronic diarrhea. It can feel frustrating and uncomfortable, but there's a reason behind this connection. Let's unpack why this happens and explore some simple solutions and dietary advice to help manage it.

Why Does Recurrent Diverticulitis Lead to Chronic Diarrhea?

Imagine your digestive system as a bustling city with many different connecting neighborhoods. Diverticulitis is like a disruption in one of these neighborhoods, causing inflammation and irritation. This disruption can impact the entire city. When this happens frequently, it can affect how your digestive system works, leading to chronic diarrhea. Here's how:

**Inflammation Is Disruptive:** When diverticula (small pouches) in your colon get inflamed, they irritate the surrounding area. This irritation can mess with how your colon absorbs water and electrolytes, making your stools loose and causing diarrhea.

**Your Gut Microbiome Becomes Unstable:** Your gut is home to lots of friendly bacteria that help with digestion. But when there's ongoing inflammation, these bacteria can get out of balance. This imbalance, called dysbiosis, can contribute to diarrhea.

**Changes in Your Colon:** If you've had diverticulitis many times, it can lead to changes in your colon's structure. Scar tissue can form, narrowing your colon and making it harder for stool to pass through. This can trigger diarrhea as your body tries to get rid of waste.

**Medications Can Play a Role:** Sometimes, the medications you take for diverticulitis, like antibiotics, can upset the balance of bacteria in your gut. This imbalance might lead to diarrhea as a side effect.

What Can You Do About It?

Managing chronic diarrhea from recurrent diverticulitis doesn't have to feel like an uphill battle. Here are some simple steps you can take to find relief:

**Talk to Your Doctor:** Don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you're struggling with chronic diarrhea. They can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation and may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms.

**Consider Probiotics:** Probiotics are like the superheroes of the gut world. They can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, potentially easing diarrhea. You can find probiotics in foods like yogurt or in supplement form.

**Fiber Is Your Friend:** Fiber is like a superhero sidekick for your digestive system. It adds bulk to your stools and can help regulate bowel movements. Load up on fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

**Stay Hydrated:** Diarrhea can leave you feeling dehydrated, so it's essential to drink plenty of fluids. Water is your best bet, but you can also try electrolyte-rich drinks like sports drinks or coconut water to replenish lost minerals.

**Watch Your Diet:** Certain foods can aggravate diarrhea, so pay attention to what you're eating. Spicy foods, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and greasy or fatty foods are common culprits. Limiting these can help manage symptoms.

**Stay Active:** Regular exercise isn't just good for your overall health—it can also help regulate your digestive system. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Conclusion:

Dealing with chronic diarrhea from recurrent diverticulitis can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. By understanding why this happens and taking simple steps to manage it, you can find relief and get back to feeling like yourself. Remember to listen to your body, stay in touch with your doctor, and be patient as you navigate this journey to better digestive health.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Natural Remedies for Constipation

gidocs — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 06:00:12 +0000

Kiwi and Fiber-Rich Foods to Relieve Digestive Issues

Constipation is an uncomfortable condition that affects people of all ages. Although over-the-counter medications are available, many of our patients prefer natural solutions to promote healthy bowel movements and alleviate symptoms. In this article we will look at natural solutions such as Kiwi fruit as well as fiber-rich food and vegetables as effective natural treatments in alleviating constipation. In general, strive to include between 25 to 38 grams of fiber in your daily diet depending on age and gender to ensure optimal digestive health.

Kiwi:

Kiwi, known for its delicious taste, is an energizing fruit packed with fiber that can aid in relieving constipation. One medium-sized kiwi provides approximately 2.5 grams of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber that adds bulk and softens stool for easier digestive passage through your system. Plus, Kiwi contains actinidin, an enzyme which assists protein digestion while supporting overall gut health. Including one or two kiwis daily in your diet could significantly contribute towards alleviating constipation symptoms.

Leafy Greens:

Green vegetables provide essential vitamins and nutrients while also being high in dietary fiber, like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, collard greens and romaine lettuce. By including leafy greens as part of your meals, you can help relieve constipation while improving digestion. Aim to add these nutritious plants to at least 1 meal per day!

Whole Grains:

Whole grains are an essential source of fiber for maintaining good digestive health. Oats, brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat and barley all provide ample amounts of insoluble fiber that adds bulk and encourages regular bowel movements.

Legumes:

Beans, lentils, chickpeas and split peas are powerful sources of dietary fiber that provide numerous health benefits. By including legume-derived fiber in your daily diet, you should expect improved bowel movements and an improved gut environment.

Berries:

Berry fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, strawberries and blueberries are not only delicious treats, but are also an excellent source of dietary fiber. These tasty treats contain both insoluble and soluble forms of fiber to promote digestive health and prevent constipation. Including various varieties of berries into your daily fiber intake to total a target goal of 25 to 38 grams per day.

Cruciferous Vegetables:

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage are excellent sources of essential fiber and other nutrients, including insoluble fiber that helps facilitate regular bowel movements and healthy digestion. Try to include these nutritious staples as part of your daily fiber goal!

Constipation can be effectively treated through natural remedies that promote healthy digestion. A diet full of fiber-rich foods like kiwi, whole grains, leafy greens, legumes, berries and cruciferous vegetables is often enough to relieve constipation symptoms and promote regular bowel movements. Aim to consume 25 to 38 grams daily for the best results. Try these natural approaches today!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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Fecal Incontinence

gidocs — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 16:39:42 +0000

overcoming fecal incontinence

Fecal incontinence can be an incredibly debilitating and isolating condition that impacts millions around the world, dramatically diminishing quality of life. At Digestive and Liver Health Specialists, our mission is to assist patients overcome this distressful condition and regain control of their lives through services such as anorectal manometry; with its ability to pinpoint underlying causes. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored specifically for our patients.

Understanding Fecal Incontinence

Fecal or "bowel incontinence," can also be known as involuntary leakage of feces from the rectum. The severity can range from occasional small leaks to complete loss of control of bowels. Common causes for incontinence include muscle or nerve damage, chronic diarrhea, rectal prolapse or even medical conditions like IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).

Impact on Quality of Life

Fecal incontinence can have a devastating impact on a person's physical and emotional well-being, from embarrassment and shame, to feelings of social withdrawal and isolation. Everyday activities, like going to work, socializing with colleagues or maintaining personal relationships may become impossible due to fear of accidents; anxiety-inducing accidents further limit enjoyment of life to its fullest.

How Digestive and Liver Health Specialists Can Assist

At Digestive and Liver Health Specialists, we understand the impact that fecal incontinence has on life. Our expert team of gastroenterology providers and healthcare professionals are committed to providing compassionate care and effective solutions. We take a comprehensive approach in diagnosing and treating fecal incontinence.

Anorectal Manometry: We utilize Anorectal Manometry as one of our invaluable tools for diagnosing and treating fecal incontinence, helping assess muscle coordination in both the rectum and anus to measure pressure and muscle contractions. This provides invaluable information about the strength of anal sphincter muscles and potential problems.

Once we have identified the source of fecal incontinence, our team will formulate an individualized treatment plan tailored specifically to you and your unique circumstances. Possible treatment options could include:

Dietary Modifications: Our medical team may suggest dietary modifications that help regulate bowel movements and decrease the risk of diarrhea or constipation that could worsen fecal incontinence.
Medication: Certain antidiarrheal or stool bulking agents may be prescribed to manage symptoms and increase bowel control.
Biofeedback Therapy: This noninvasive technique helps retrain pelvic floor muscles and increase coordination.
Surgical Interventions: Sometimes surgical procedures may be necessary to repair damaged muscles or correct structural abnormalities.

Regain Control: Transform Your Life with Fecal Incontinence Trial Implants

You are not alone in facing fecal incontinence—it’s a common condition that can also accompany urinary incontinence. Symptoms like leakage, difficulty controlling gas, and sudden urges can disrupt your daily life and confidence.

Dr. Sharma

At our practice, we offer advanced fecal incontinence trial implants that provide effective relief. Here’s what you can expect:

Expert Care: Dr. Sharma specializes in fecal incontinence treatments and has helped many patients achieve remarkable results.
High Success Rate: Many experience complete resolution of their symptoms, with some achieving 100% improvement.
Quick and Safe Procedure: Dr. Sharma is a skilled expert who performs the procedure under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort while you remain awake.

Take the First Step

Don't go it alone; take that first step toward improving your future and contact Digestive and Liver Health Specialists today.

Want to Hear From Real People About Their Experience With Therapy?

Doris K.

(71 years old)

"I adjusted my whole life by limiting myself from drinking and eating. Now I don't have to."
- Doris K.

Doris had suffered with overactive bowel and bladder symptoms since 1987. "The thing that stands out in my mind the most is that this has gone on for so many years and I had to adjust my whole life." Finally, with Sacral Neuromodulation therapy, Doris got her symptoms under control and was able to say "goodbye" to wearing pads!

https://thegidocs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_0650.mp4

Regina H.

(61 years old)

Regina had suffered with fecal incontinence for over two decades. She experienced COMPLETE RELIEF of symptoms within one day of Dr. Sharma’s implant trial!

Results and experiences may vary and are unique to each patient.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

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