Dr. Alan Schwartz, MD

About Dr. Alan Schwartz, MD

Dr. Alan Schwartz, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his clinic in Fort Lauderdale, FL, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). I provide comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. I serve all ages, and am currently welcoming new patients. Please call (954) 491-0500 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Alan Schwartz, MD is a gastroenterologist in Fort Lauderdale, FL with over 55 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from State University Of New York Downstate Health Sciences University College Of Medicine in 1968, followed by an internship at Mount Sinai Hospital in 1969, and fellowship training in a specialized area of patient health at Mt Sinai Hospital in 1972. With over 55 years of dedicated experience in Gastroenterological care, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is affiliated with Holy Cross Hospital, and committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, collaborative decision-making, and providing a supportive, reassuring environment for patients. Dr. Schwartz offers consultations in Spanish.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Alan Schwartz addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can be caused by various issues, ranging from mild indigestion to more serious conditions.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: IBS is a chronic condition marked by abdominal pain and irregular bowel function, often accompanied by gas, bloating, and mucus in the stool.
• Viral Infection: A viral infection can cause inflammation and discomfort in your digestive system.
• Dysphagia: If you have dysphagia, you may feel like food is getting stuck in your throat or chest.
• Esophageal Diverticulum: Think of an esophageal diverticulum as a little pocket that forms in your food pipe, potentially leading to problems with swallowing.
• Intestinal Diverticulitis: Intestinal diverticulitis is a condition where small pockets in your colon become inflamed, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
• Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many factors, often leading to liver failure.
• Crohn: Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any part of the digestive tract.
• Celiac Disease: If you have celiac disease, your body's immune system attacks the small intestine when you consume gluten, leading to malabsorption of nutrients.
• Noninfectious Gastroenteritis and Colitis: Certain conditions like autoimmune diseases or food intolerances can cause inflammation in your stomach and intestines, resulting in noninfectious gastroenteritis and colitis.
• Intestinal Obstruction: Intestinal obstruction is a blockage in your intestines that prevents food and waste from moving through normally.
• Heartburn: Heartburn is a common digestive symptom that involves stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus, leading to discomfort.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Alan Schwartz addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Gastroenterology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Gastroenterological Services Provided

Dr. Alan Schwartz offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: This service evaluates swallowing problems using specialized tools.
• Impedance Testing: Impedance testing helps doctors identify issues with the electrical signals in your digestive tract, specifically your esophagus.
• Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a preventative procedure to check for abnormalities in your large intestine, such as polyps that could become cancerous.
• Hepatitis Screening: This service helps identify if you have hepatitis, a condition affecting your liver.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Early detection through colorectal cancer screening significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and survival.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This service checks for hepatitis B virus infection.
• Wireless pH Testing: Wireless pH testing measures the acidity levels in your esophagus to help diagnose acid reflux or GERD.
• Hepatitis A Screening: This service helps determine if you have hepatitis A.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: This service screens for hepatitis C virus infection.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This service measures the levels of fats in your blood to help diagnose and manage various health conditions.
• Liver Function Test: This blood test helps doctors evaluate your liver's ability to perform its vital functions.
• Ultrasound: Our ultrasound service provides detailed images of your digestive system to help diagnose potential problems.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Alan Schwartz. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Gastroenterology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterologies in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Alan Schwartz:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the health of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A gastroenterologist diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent a wide variety of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Alan Schwartz?

Your first visit with Dr. Schwartz will involve a detailed review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history, a physical examination, and a discussion of potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of all medications you are currently taking and any relevant prior test results. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of your needs.

Does Dr. Alan Schwartz accept my insurance?

Dr. Schwartz's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly to verify your specific insurance coverage before your appointment.

What is the approach to treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Dr. Schwartz's approach to IBS is multifaceted, encompassing dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle adjustments, stress management techniques, and targeted medications to address symptoms such as pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. He will work with you to develop a personalized plan that best suits your individual needs.

How does Dr. Alan Schwartz manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Dr. Schwartz's approach to managing IBD focuses on achieving long-term remission through a combination of medication, including biologics, and close monitoring of disease activity. He emphasizes a collaborative care model involving patients, nurses, and dietitians to optimize treatment and quality of life. Regular follow-up appointments are key to adjusting treatment plans as needed.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Alan Schwartz offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Schwartz offers several effective, minimally invasive in-office procedures for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These procedures are often successful in relieving symptoms and are a viable alternative to surgery. Our team is dedicated to providing the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.

Does Dr. Alan Schwartz treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Schwartz is experienced in treating liver conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially a liver biopsy, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans to maintain optimal liver health.

What treatments does Dr. Alan Schwartz offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Schwartz offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, encompassing lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication options, and diagnostic testing such as upper endoscopy or pH monitoring to precisely guide treatment. He works with patients to develop a personalized plan to effectively control symptoms and prevent complications.