Dr. Gourisankar Degala, MD

About Dr. Gourisankar Degala, MD

Dr. Gourisankar Degala, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his Clearwater, FL clinic, dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and adheres to Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Degala's practice focuses on providing comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. He serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (727) 462-0444 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Gourisankar Degala, MD is a gastroenterologist in Clearwater, FL, with extensive experience in Gastrointestinal Disorders, Esophageal Disorders, and Pancreatic Disease. He is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital and is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Degala earned his medical degree from Kempegowda Institute Of Med Sciences Bangalore India and completed his residency training in Gastroenterologies at Henry Ford Hospital-Detroit, MI, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of all ages. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Degala is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making, providing a supportive and reassuring environment for all patients. Dr. Degala provides consultations primarily in English.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Gourisankar Degala addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Vitamin_Deficiency: A vitamin deficiency occurs when your body doesn't get enough of a specific vitamin, potentially causing various health problems.
• Retroperitoneum Cancer: Retroperitoneal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues behind the abdominal lining.
• Colon Cancer: Colon cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the lining of the colon, leading to tumor formation.
• Duodenal Ulcer: A duodenal ulcer is a sore on the lining of the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid backing up into your esophagus is the hallmark of GERD, often causing chest pain and discomfort.
• Heartburn: That burning feeling in your chest or throat after eating, particularly acidic or spicy foods, is likely heartburn.
• Malnutrition: Malnutrition means your body isn't getting enough nutrients from food to stay healthy.
• Benign Neoplasm of the Digestive System: A benign neoplasm means a harmless mass or growth has been discovered in your digestive organs.
• Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Primary biliary cholangitis affects the liver's bile ducts, causing scarring and potentially leading to liver failure over time if left untreated.
• Reflux Esophagitis: Reflux esophagitis is irritation and inflammation of the esophagus caused by stomach acid flowing back up.
• Acute Gastritis: Acute gastritis is a sudden inflammation of your stomach lining that can cause pain and discomfort.
• Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a contagious disease that affects the liver and is usually transmitted through contaminated food or water.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Gourisankar Degala 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. Gourisankar Degala offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Gastroenterology Procedures: These medical interventions help healthcare professionals identify and resolve problems within the digestive tract.
• Endoscopic Mucosal Resection: With an endoscope, a doctor can precisely remove abnormal tissue from the digestive tract's inner layer during endoscopic mucosal resection, often for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): If you have issues with your bile ducts or pancreas, an ERCP might be used to identify the problem and perform minimally invasive treatment.
• Esophageal Stenting: To treat a blockage or narrowing in the esophagus, doctors may use esophageal stenting to place a supportive tube.
• Removal or Destruction of Rectal or Intestinal Tumor (incl. Colonoscopy: This service provides treatment for tumors in your rectum or intestines, including colonoscopy procedures.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound: A thin, flexible tube with a sound wave device at the end is used to get detailed images of your esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
• Wireless pH Testing: To diagnose and manage your acid reflux, a small, ingestible device will track stomach acid levels for a period of time, providing accurate information to your doctor.
• Hemorrhoidectomy or Excision of Anal Tags: Excision of anal tags involves removing small pieces of skin around the anus.
• Capsule Endoscopy: A tiny camera in a capsule you swallow allows doctors to examine your small bowel without surgery during capsule endoscopy.
• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy involves bowel preparation to cleanse the colon, followed by insertion of a scope to visualize the inner lining.
• Endoscopic Pseudocyst Drainage: Endoscopic pseudocyst drainage is a procedure that uses a small camera and tools passed through the mouth or anus to safely drain a pseudocyst.
• Impedance Testing: It's a test that assesses the coordination of muscle contractions in your esophagus to determine the cause of swallowing difficulties or heartburn.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Gourisankar Degala. 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. Gourisankar Degala:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focusing on the health of the entire digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A gastroenterologist diagnoses, treats, and prevents a wide range of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Gourisankar Degala?

Your first visit with Dr. Degala will involve a comprehensive review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history. A physical examination will follow, and we'll discuss potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of all medications and any prior test results for review.

Does Dr. Gourisankar Degala accept my insurance?

Dr. Degala's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly with your insurance information to confirm coverage before your appointment.

What treatments does Dr. Gourisankar Degala offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Degala offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, including lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication options, and diagnostic testing like endoscopy or pH monitoring to precisely tailor treatment plans.

How does Dr. Gourisankar Degala diagnose and manage Celiac Disease?

Dr. Degala diagnoses celiac disease with a combination of blood tests and an upper endoscopy with biopsy. Management focuses on educating patients about the gluten-free diet and ensuring strict adherence to this critical dietary approach.

Does Dr. Gourisankar Degala treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Degala is experienced in treating liver conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He uses a multi-faceted approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially a liver biopsy, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans focused on managing liver health.

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

Dr. Degala's approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is multifaceted, encompassing dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and targeted medications to alleviate symptoms such as pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Gourisankar Degala offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Degala offers several in-office, non-surgical treatments for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These procedures are effective, minimally invasive, and often resolve symptoms quickly. Recovery time is typically short, and they are a viable option before considering more extensive procedures.