Gastroenterology Associates, LLP

07/28/2026

🚨 Wondering if it's time to see a Gastroenterologist? 🚨

Not every stomach ache needs a specialist—but some symptoms shouldn't be ignored.

You should consider seeing a GI specialist if you have:
✅ Frequent heartburn or acid reflux (more than twice a week)
✅ Difficulty or pain when swallowing
✅ Ongoing abdominal pain or bloating
✅ Chronic diarrhea or constipation
✅ Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
✅ Unexplained weight loss
✅ Persistent nausea or vomiting
✅ Elevated liver enzymes or concerns about liver disease
✅ A family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or other digestive disorders
✅ You're due for colorectal cancer screening
As gastroenterologists, we diagnose and treat conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Early evaluation can help identify problems before they become more serious.

💙 Don't ignore symptoms that persist or interfere with your daily life. Your digestive health matters.

📞 Call Gastroenterology Associates at 716-626-5250 to schedule an appointment.
🌐 Visit gastrowny.com to learn more or request an appointment.

⬇️ Have questions about your digestive health? Leave them in the comments—we may answer them in an upcoming post!

07/15/2026

🟢 Gallstones: What You Need to Know
Gallstones are small, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. While many people never have symptoms, gallstones can sometimes block the flow of bile and cause sudden, severe pain that requires medical evaluation.

Common symptoms include:
✅ Pain in the upper right abdomen or center of the abdomen (especially after eating)
✅ Pain that may radiate to the right shoulder or back
✅ Nausea or vomiting
✅ Bloating or indigestion
✅ Symptoms that occur after fatty meals

Who is at higher risk?
• Women
• Adults over 40
• People who are overweight or have rapid weight loss
• Pregnancy
• Family history of gallstones
• Diabetes

When should you seek medical care?
If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or persistent vomiting, seek medical attention promptly. These may be signs of a blocked bile duct or gallbladder infection.

How are gallstones diagnosed?
Your gastroenterologist may recommend:
🔹 Abdominal ultrasound
🔹 Blood work
🔹 Additional imaging, if needed

Not all gallstones require treatment, but symptomatic gallstones should be evaluated to prevent complications.

💙 If you're experiencing persistent abdominal pain or digestive symptoms, the team at Gastroenterology Associates is here to help.
📞 Call us today to schedule an appointment.

07/08/2026

Could it be more than just a "sensitive stomach"? 🌾

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where eating gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye) triggers damage to the small intestine. Left untreated, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other long-term health complications.

🔍 Common symptoms include:
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Bloating and abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
• Brain fog
• In children: poor growth or delayed development

💡 Not everyone with celiac disease has digestive symptoms. Some people have very mild symptoms—or none at all.

🩺 If you think you may have celiac disease, don't start a gluten-free diet before getting tested. Blood work and, in many cases, an upper endoscopy with small bowel biopsies are most accurate while you're still eating gluten.

The good news? With the right diagnosis and a strict gluten-free diet, most people experience significant improvement and protect their long-term health.

If you're experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms or have a family history of celiac disease, we're here to help.
📞 Call 716-626-5250 to schedule an appointment.

07/03/2026

07/01/2026

🚨 Exciting News from Gastroenterology Associates! 🚨

We are proud to announce our partnership with Yanuvia as we expand into the field of clinical research.

Our first research initiative is the FIND-CRC Study in partnership with Natera. Patients undergoing a screening colonoscopy may have the opportunity to participate by providing a simple blood sample prior to their procedure and receive compensation for their time.

We are excited to play a role in advancing colorectal cancer research and helping develop innovative approaches to early detection. Together, we're contributing to the future of patient care, one study at a time.

If you're scheduled for a screening colonoscopy and would like to learn more about participating, ask our team for additional information.

06/19/2026

🥦 Understanding the Low FODMAP Diet 🥖

Struggling with bloating, gas, abdominal pain, or IBS symptoms? A Low FODMAP diet may help identify foods that trigger digestive discomfort.

🔍 What are FODMAPs?
FODMAPs are certain carbohydrates that can be poorly absorbed in the intestine and fermented by gut bacteria, leading to symptoms in sensitive individuals.

🚫 Common High FODMAP Foods:
• Garlic & onions
• Wheat-based breads and pasta
• Milk, soft cheeses, ice cream
• Apples, pears, watermelon, mango
• Beans and lentils
• Honey
• High fructose corn syrup
• Cauliflower and mushrooms

✅ Common Low FODMAP Foods:
• Bananas, strawberries, blueberries, oranges
• Carrots, cucumbers, spinach, zucchini
• Rice, oats, quinoa
• Potatoes
• Lactose-free dairy products
• Eggs, fish, chicken, turkey
• Firm tofu
• Nuts (except pistachios and cashews)

💡 The Low FODMAP diet is typically followed in three phases:
1️⃣ Elimination
2️⃣ Reintroduction
3️⃣ Personalization
The goal is NOT to avoid these foods forever, but to identify your personal triggers and build a sustainable long-term diet.

If you’re experiencing ongoing digestive symptoms, talk with your gastroenterologist or a registered dietitian before starting a Low FODMAP diet.

📞 Gastroenterology Associates: 716-626-5250
🌐 gastrowny.com

06/16/2026

Congrats to Pat Graham, our incredible administrator of Endoscopy Center of WNY/Niagara who was voted as one of Buffalo Business firsts 2026’s Excellence in Health Care Awards winners.

We want to recognize and thank her for her hard work, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Your attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and unwavering dedication help ensure that our patients receive the highest quality care every day.

From coordinating schedules and supporting our staff to helping patients navigate their healthcare journey, your efforts make a difference that is felt throughout our entire practice.
👏 Thank you for your professionalism, compassion, and countless contributions to our team. We are grateful for everything you do!

06/14/2026

This week we are highlighting Carrin Clifford, FNP-BC
Q: What inspired you to become a gastroenterologist?
I was drawn to gastroenterology because it combines complex problem-solving with the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients. GI conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life, and I enjoy helping patients find answers, improve their health, and get back to doing the things they love.

Q: What’s one thing you wish patients knew before seeing a GI specialist?
Many digestive symptoms are more common than people realize, and there's no need to feel embarrassed discussing them. The more open and detailed patients can be about their symptoms, the better we can work together to identify the cause and develop an effective treatment plan.

Q: What can patients expect during a visit or procedure with you?
Patients can expect a thorough, respectful, and collaborative experience. I take time to listen, answer questions, and ensure patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options. During an office visit my goal is to help patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in their care.

Q: How do you approach patient care?
I believe the best care starts with listening. Every patient has a unique story, and I strive to understand not only their medical concerns but also how those concerns affect their daily life. My approach is centered on communication, education, and shared decision-making so patients feel like active partners in their healthcare.

Q: What do you enjoy most about practicing GI?
I enjoy the variety that gastroenterology offers. Every day brings new challenges, from diagnosing complex conditions to ordering procedures that can both prevent disease and improve a patient's quality of life. It's rewarding to see patients feel better and gain peace of mind after finding answers.

06/08/2026

🔥Peptic Ulcer Disease: What Causes It?
Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. While they can cause symptoms like burning stomach pain, nausea, bloating, and indigestion, many people don't realize what causes them.

Common causes include:
✔️ H. pylori infection
✔️ Frequent use of NSAID medications (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin)
✔️ Excess stomach acid
✔️ Smoking
✔️ Heavy alcohol use
✔️ Chronic stress and unhealthy lifestyle habits
✔️ Certain medical conditions

Recognizing risk factors can help prevent complications and lead to earlier treatment.
If you're experiencing persistent abdominal pain, nausea, unexplained weight loss, or black stools, don't ignore the symptoms—schedule an evaluation.

📞 Gastroenterology Associates
716-626-5250
🌐 gastrowny.com

06/05/2026

This week we highlight Dr. Gregory

Q: What inspired you to become a gastroenterologist?
What drew me to gastroenterology was the complexity of GI diseases and how much of an impact good GI care can have on patient’s quality of life. The myriad of diseases and symptoms we treat as Gastroenterologists makes each day new and exciting

Q: What is your clinical focus or special interest?
I strive to provide comprehensive GI care and have a special interest in women’s health.

Q: What’s one thing you wish patients knew before seeing a GI specialist?
I wish patients knew that no topic is off limits. We are here to listen and help . Sometimes GI topics can be uncomfortable to talk about but no judgment here! I also hope patients know that their symptoms are valid and they know their body best. Working with a GI specialist should be a collaboration

Q: What can patients expect during a visit or procedure with you?
I pride myself on being thorough and providing empathetic and compassionate care. They can expect that I will truly listen to them and work with them to figure out the best next steps for diagnosis and treatment.

Q: How do you approach patient care?
I like to use an individualized approach. Each patient is different and I find it beneficial to really tailor care to every patient.

Q: What do you enjoy most about practicing GI?
I love the people I work with and the patients I get to meet and take care of. Developing meaningful relationships and actually making a difference in patients lives is very rewarding.

Q: What do you enjoy outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my husband, two kids and our vizsla. My family and I are avid Buffalo sports fans and have season tickets to the Bills and Sabres. We love to ski, boat, play soccer and spend time outdoors.

Q: Fun fact about you?
I ran college track and play the violin and piano