Digestive Health

A hiatal hernia is a weakening of the diaphragm where part of the stomach moves its way into the chest from the abdomen. This impacts the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the lower end of the esophagus that helps keep stomach contents and acid from being regurgitated into … Read More

People as young as 20 are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, a disease once associated exclusively with older adults. While researchers try to unravel the cause of this troubling trend, oncologists at Hoag are educating young people about their risks, and about how to identify and avoid the disease. Hoag is also spreading a message … Read More

Those who suffer from Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), know that it’s more than just an inconvenience; it’s a painful and life altering condition. GERD can also lead to serious complications, including esophageal cancer. Understanding the importance of preventive measures is key to maintaining your digestive health. “GERD can be caused by a hiatal hernia and … Read More

Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, but early detection and timely intervention can substantially improve outcomes. Hoag’s highly experienced colorectal cancer care team provides patient-centered, integrated care to address all needs of a patient, from early detection and diagnosis through state-of-the-art surgical approaches. While the exact cause of colon cancer remains elusive, factors such … Read More

Whether it’s an ice-cold vanilla latte, a grande café mocha or just a traditional cup of Joe, people’s love affair with coffee is as strong as a cold brew. But the question remains, can coffee wreak havoc on your digestive system? It depends on the sensitivities of the person, according to Adrian Dobrowolsky, M.D., general … Read More

Erin Bowlus played semi-professional flag football for two years with a broken hip. The lighting-intense pain flashing through her leg? She just sucked it up. So, when started to experience crushing chest pain in 2016, she didn’t believe her first set of doctors’ suggestion that she was suffering from anxiety. Erin is tough. She can … Read More

Life-altering. Freeing. Restorative. These are the words patients frequently use to describe the surgeries and treatments they receive from the Hoag Margolis Family Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program. People contending with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis receive more than treatment for their condition; Hoag’s multidisciplinary team provides the comprehensive care that helps return people to … Read More

Halloween is designed to terrify us. The ghouls! The goblins! The attempts to teach children about portion control while they’re holding pillowcases stuffed with candy! Thankfully, Meghan Gonzalez, R.D., C.D.C.E.S, a Hoag registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist is here to allay parents’ fears of the things that go bump (and crinkle, … Read More

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., August 1, 2023 — For the seventh consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-2024 Best Hospitals Rankings named Hoag the highest ranked hospital in Orange County, the fourth-best hospital in the Los Angeles metro area and ninth-best in California. The rankings also included national rankings in two specialty areas and recognition … Read More

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a gastrointestinal disorder that causes pain or discomfort, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, is increasing among young adults. For some young adults, the symptoms are annoying or embarrassing. For others, they’re debilitating – interfering with sports, social events and school. Why does IBD strike so many young adults? “When it … Read More