If you are looking for a Katy Texas private stomach specialist, then schedule an appointment with Dr. Maher. Dr. Maher is a board-certified gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats conditions associated with the digestive system or (gastrointestinal tract) GI tract.
Conditions associated with the GI tract include irritable bowel syndrome, hepatitis C, Crohn’s disease, liver disease, and more. Thes conditions can be dangerous and should be treated by an expert. Dr. James Maher is a professional in his field and has more than 30 years of experience. Since 1985, Dr. Maher has diagnosed and treated hundreds of patients.
For his undergrad, Maher attended the University of Michigan. Afterward, he sought warmer temperatures and a medical degree at the Medical College of Virginia. Dr. Maher graduated in an accelerated program. Then, he moved to California for the University of California-Irvine.
His fellowship came after, which was in hepatology at the University of Southern California. Once completed, Dr. Maher completed a two-year fellowship in Gastroenterology at the University of California-Irvine. Since then, Dr. Maher has provided professional care for those with GI tract conditions. Dr. Maher treats patients over the age of 18 and speaks fluent Spanish. His care for patients is exceptional. He is a massive proponent of patient education and evaluating all treatment options.
What is the GI tract?
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract helps removes waste from the body, digests food, moves food, and absorbs nutrients. The GI tract includes the mouth, but most specialists do not offer services for this area. Portions of the GI tract include the following:
- pharynx,
- esophagus
- stomach
- small and large intestine
- liver
- gallbladder
- pancreas
- salivary glands
- tongue
- epiglottis
- rectum
- anus
Any area of the GI tract can be affected by a condition which Dr. James Maher helps treat. His clinic offers services for a wide variety of conditions, which you can see a small list below.
- Hemorrhoids
- Crohn’s disease
- Colitis
- Colon Polyps
- Ulcers
- Liver Disease
- Gall Stones
When should I see a gastroenterologist?
If you are unsure if you should see a gastroenterologist, then the following cases may fit your condition. Firstly, see your primary care doctor. Report to them about the potential problems you are having. From there, they will suggest to you a gastroenterologist. That is when you can come to visit Dr. Maher’s practice.
If you are over the age of 50, then seeing a gastroenterologist is great for preventative care. Those over the age of 50 are more likely to develop colon cancer, so annual screenings are beneficial.
When you visit your primary doctor, and you are reporting unexplained blood in your stool, a difficulty swallowing, or an experience with abdominal pain, then they will most likely refer you to a gastroenterologist.
Again, you can see Dr. Maher for a variety of reasons. Below, we will go into detail about a few services he offers.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C affects about 2.7 million people in the United States. This condition starts as a virus and is spread through bodily fluids, primarily through the blood. Often times, hepatitis C is spread through the use of needles while taking drugs. Of course, it can also pass through a blood transition, sexual intercourse, mother to child at birth, and simply sharing a utensil with someone.
Hepatitis C has a lot of symptoms you can keep an eye on. Many of these symptoms are related to other conditions, so consult your primary physician first.
- Abdomen pain
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Jaundice
- Depression
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Itchy skin
- Dark-colored urine
- Easily bleed
- Swelling in the legs
- Drowsiness or slurred speech
The first phase of hepatitis C is often acute, which rarely shows symptoms. This condition can become chronic, which means it lasts for many years or the rest of a patient’s life. An estimate of more than half of hepatitis C patients will develop a chronic infection.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is what is known as inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. This condition can be painful, debilitating, and causes life-threatening complications. The colon and the last part of the small intestine are the most affected areas of Crohn’s disease. There are many different types of Crohn’s disease, but the most common form is Ilecoloitis.
Symptoms of Ilecolotis include diarrhea, cramping, significant weight loss, and pain in the lower or middle part of the abdomen. More than 3 million Americans are affected by this condition. The cause of the disease is unknown, but there are organizations furthering researching like the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.
Often times, those who have family members with Crohn’s disease are more likely to develop the condition. Men and women are equally affected by the disease. When it comes to age, younger people between the age of 15 and 35 are the most affected. It is suggested that hereditary, genetic, and environmental factors affect development.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is not a condition; rather, a test recommended to detect conditions in the colon and rectum. This test can be used to detect colon cancer or colon polyps, which may house cancer. This test usually lasts between 30-minutes and an hour.
The procedure is performed by inserting a tube into the rectum. At the end of the tube is a tiny video camera that Dr. Maher uses to see the inside of the colon. If needed, polyps can be extracted for samples. Dr. Maher can get back to patients quickly in order to provide results for the next steps.
Katy Texas Private Stomach Specialist
Dr. James Maher is more than capable of helping you with your GI tract condition. With more than 30 years in the field, he can help you diagnose and treat your condition. More importantly, he informs you of the condition you have and evaluates all treatment options.
Call Dr. Maher’s clinic today at (281) 945-5190. He and his team will make you feel comfortable and relaxed. The condition you are experiencing is treatable and manageable. Dr. Maher’s clinic is in Katy, TX, so it is conveniently located for many in the Greater Houston Area. So, stop looking for a “Katy Texas private stomach specialist” and start calling!
Fun Facts about Katy
- You can take a walking or driving tour of over a dozen historical homes and buildings downtown.
- Katy has ten parks!
- Katy is only about 30 min./miles from Houston.
- Find more Katy facts here.