Dr. Ira Litzenblatt, MD

About Dr. Ira Litzenblatt, MD

Dr. Ira Litzenblatt, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at Coral Ridge Gastro Associates in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Gastroenterological care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He is committed to the well-being of all ages of patients, focusing on disorders affecting the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Patients should call (954) 351-1100 to confirm if Dr. Litzenblatt is currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Ira Litzenblatt, MD is a gastroenterologist in Fort Lauderdale, FL, with over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from University Of Michigan, Medical Center in 1975. With this extensive experience, 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, ensuring his expertise aligns with the highest standards of care. Dr. Litzenblatt is deeply committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative decision-making, providing a supportive and reassuring environment for all patients. He offers consultations in French.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Ira Litzenblatt addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: With IBD, your immune system mistakenly attacks the digestive tract, resulting in persistent inflammation and digestive problems.
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: If you have NAFLD, it means you have extra fat in your liver not from alcohol; it's often associated with being overweight or having diabetes.
• Dysphagia: Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing, making it hard to get food or liquid down.
• Cholecystitis and Gallstones: Having gallstones increases your risk of developing cholecystitis, a painful gallbladder infection.
• Gallstones: Gallstones are hardened cholesterol or bilirubin deposits that can cause gallbladder pain.
• Esophagitis: Experiencing heartburn and difficulty swallowing may indicate esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus.
• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Gastrointestinal malabsorption means your body isn't absorbing nutrients from food properly.
• Barrett: Barrett's esophagus is a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
• Gastroparesis: Nausea, vomiting, and fullness after eating are common symptoms experienced by individuals with gastroparesis.
• Anemia: Anemia is a condition where your blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells.
• Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C is a type of liver disease caused by a virus that spreads through contact with infected blood.
• Reflux Esophagitis: Reflux esophagitis is irritation and inflammation of the esophagus caused by stomach acid flowing back up.

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

• Colonoscopy: This procedure helps screen for colon cancer and other colorectal diseases, often preventing serious problems.
• Endoscopy: During an endoscopy, a doctor uses a small camera to examine your esophagus, stomach, intestines, or other digestive organs.
• Impedance Testing: Impedance testing measures the electrical activity in your esophagus to help diagnose swallowing problems.
• Esophagogastroscopy: Esophagogastroscopy is a diagnostic test that involves inserting a small, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the esophagus and stomach.
• Removal or Destruction of Rectal or Intestinal Tumor (incl. Colonoscopy, Proctosigmoidoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy and Control of Hemorrhage): Treatment to remove or destroy a cancerous or non-cancerous growth in the rectum or intestine.
• Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM): A Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) is a procedure where a small incision is made in the esophagus to cut some of the muscle, improving food passage.
• Stenting Procedures of the Airway (Trachea) and Esophagus: A stent is a small, expandable tube placed to open a narrowed or blocked airway (trachea) or esophagus.

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

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 prevents a wide range of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Ira Litzenblatt?

Your first visit with Dr. Litzenblatt 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 prior test results, to help ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

Does Dr. Ira Litzenblatt accept my insurance?

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

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Ira Litzenblatt offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Litzenblatt offers several effective, minimally invasive non-surgical treatments for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These in-office procedures are often successful in relieving symptoms and are a viable alternative to surgery.

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

Dr. Litzenblatt's approach to IBS is multifaceted, addressing symptoms through dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and targeted medications to manage pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. We work collaboratively with patients to find the best combination of therapies to effectively manage their IBS.

What treatments does Dr. Ira Litzenblatt offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Litzenblatt offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, encompassing lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication options, and diagnostic testing like upper endoscopy or pH monitoring to precisely tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

What should I do if I suspect I have gallstones?

If you suspect gallstones, especially with severe abdominal pain, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. A provider can use diagnostic tools like ultrasound to confirm the presence of gallstones and discuss appropriate management options, which may range from watchful waiting to surgical intervention.

Does Dr. Ira Litzenblatt manage conditions of the pancreas, like pancreatitis?

Dr. Litzenblatt is experienced in diagnosing and managing pancreatic conditions, including pancreatitis. He investigates causes, manages symptoms, and monitors for complications associated with acute or chronic pancreatitis. He provides comprehensive care for patients with pancreatic concerns.