Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at her Oviedo, FL clinic. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring the highest standards of care. A gastroenterologist provides specialized expertise in managing complex digestive conditions common in seniors, such as colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care. Dr. Narvaez-Lugo is currently welcoming new patients and encourages you to call (407) 478-0882 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo, a board-certified doctor in Gastroenterology, brings over 20 years of dedicated experience to her practice, having earned her medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University School Of Medicine in 2003. Following her internship at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System, she completed a residency in Gastroenterology at the same institution, followed by a fellowship at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Older adults (65 and over). She is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Her approach to care is centered on clear communication and respect, ensuring patients feel heard and empowered throughout their health journey. Dr. Narvaez-Lugo offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Narvaez-Lugo is a compassionate gastroenterologist dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care for seniors. She expertly manages complex digestive conditions, collaborating with primary care physicians and other specialists to create a coordinated care plan. Her approach prioritizes understanding each patient's unique needs and goals, ensuring comfort and maintaining independence throughout their health journey.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Beech Street (Multiplan)
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
Cigna
Coventry Health Care
Coventry Health Care of Florida
Florida Hospital Healthcare System
Golden Rule
Humana
Magellan Healthcare
Mail Handlers Benefit Plan (MHBP)
Medical Mutual of Ohio
Staywell (Wellcare)
Sunshine Health
Universal American
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Health Net
- Inc.
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO
- Superior Health Plan
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Vomiting Disorders: Frequent vomiting in older adults can lead to dehydration and malnutrition, but with proper medical attention, including medication and dietary adjustments, we can manage this and improve quality of life.
- Alcoholic Hepatitis: Alcoholic hepatitis is a serious liver inflammation caused by excessive alcohol use, and it can be managed with abstinence from alcohol and supportive medical care to improve liver function and overall health.
- Obesity: Obesity is a condition where you have excess body fat that can increase your risk of health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer.
- Duodenal Ulcer: A duodenal ulcer is a sore in the upper part of your small intestine that can cause pain and discomfort, but with proper medication and lifestyle changes, it can be effectively managed, allowing you to enjoy your daily activities.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Intestinal obstruction is a serious condition that can prevent your body from processing food properly; treatment options, such as surgery or medications, aim to relieve the blockage and get your digestive system working comfortably again.
- Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by a virus, and although it can be concerning, treatment focuses on preventing long-term damage to your liver, often letting seniors live full and healthy lives.
- Intestinal Malabsorption Carbohydrate: Carbohydrate malabsorption is a condition where your body struggles to digest certain sugars, resulting in symptoms like gas and diarrhea; by modifying your diet and perhaps adding digestive enzyme supplements, you can better manage your symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.
- Dysentery: Dysentery is an infection causing painful bowel movements with blood and mucus, and can lead to dehydration; effective treatment focuses on rehydration and managing the infection to restore comfort and well-being.
- Viral Hepatitis: If you're concerned about viral hepatitis, know that there are effective treatments available to manage the infection and minimize its impact on your daily life, helping you enjoy your retirement years.
- Neoplasm of Gastrointestinal Tract: A neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract is an abnormal growth, either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), that develops in any part of your digestive system, and treatment focuses on removing or controlling the growth to improve comfort and overall health.
- Peptic Ulcer: A peptic ulcer is a painful condition that can affect your appetite and overall well-being, but a combination of medicine and dietary adjustments can help you feel much better and more comfortable.
- Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia: Managing a diaphragmatic or hiatal hernia often involves lifestyle changes like eating smaller meals and avoiding certain foods to reduce symptoms and maintain your comfort.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Wireless pH Testing: Wireless pH testing helps doctors understand if stomach acid is refluxing into your esophagus, a key step in managing GERD.
- Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a vital procedure that helps detect colon polyps and early signs of colon cancer, allowing for timely treatment and improved outcomes.
- Colon Cancer Screening: By identifying colon cancer early through screening, seniors can significantly improve their chances of successful treatment and long-term well-being.
- Endoscopy: Endoscopy is a procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize the digestive tract, helping doctors diagnose and manage conditions like colon cancer or GERD.
- Instrumental Diagnostic Evaluation for Dysphagia: To better understand and manage swallowing problems, this evaluation employs various tools to assess the mechanics of swallowing, informing the creation of a personalized care plan for seniors.
- Duodenal Polypectomy: For seniors, duodenal polypectomy is a minimally invasive way to remove polyps found during an endoscopy, helping maintain your digestive system's optimal function.
- Impedance Testing: To better manage your GERD symptoms, impedance testing helps differentiate between acid reflux and non-acid reflux, guiding your doctor in creating a personalized treatment strategy.
- Manometry: Manometry helps create a personalized treatment plan by measuring the pressures and movements within your digestive system, allowing for targeted therapies for swallowing disorders and digestive issues.
- Liver Biopsy: If you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue or jaundice, a liver biopsy can be a crucial step in determining the underlying cause and tailoring your treatment.
- pH Probe: This small device measures the acidity in your stomach, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive issues like heartburn and GERD.
- Hemorrhoid Removal: Hemorrhoid removal is a procedure to eliminate painful and bleeding hemorrhoids, improving comfort and quality of life for seniors.
- Gastroenterology Procedures: Gastroenterology procedures are tests and treatments that help doctors diagnose and manage digestive system problems, ensuring seniors receive the right care for their specific needs.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterology in Florida.
Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After experiencing frequent vomiting, a senior felt much less anxious about leaving home, thanks to a tailored treatment plan including medication and dietary adjustments. The family was relieved to see their loved one regain their appetite and enjoy meals again.
- With a commitment to sobriety and supportive medical care, a senior found relief from the debilitating symptoms of alcoholic hepatitis, regaining the energy to enjoy their beloved hobby of playing bridge with friends.
- With guidance on healthy eating and exercise, a senior felt more energetic and confident, easily navigating daily activities and enjoying time with family. Their improved health led to a renewed sense of security and independence in their home.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Gastroenterology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Gastroenterological care with Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo:
- What is a Gastroenterologist?
- A gastroenterologist, or GI doctor, is a specialist trained to care for the entire digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of digestive diseases, helping seniors maintain comfort and health.
- Why is a colonoscopy so important for older adults?
- A colonoscopy is the most effective way to prevent colorectal cancer, which is common in seniors. Dr. Narvaez-Lugo can find and remove small growths called polyps before they become cancerous, making it a critical, proactive step for long-term health and peace of mind.
- What can I expect during my first consultation with Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo?
- Your first consultation with Dr. Narvaez-Lugo will be a comprehensive conversation about your digestive health. We'll review your symptoms, diet, medications, and health history. This thorough evaluation is the first step toward creating a personalized plan to address your concerns, whether it's heartburn, changes in bowel habits, or a screening.
- How do you manage Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in seniors?
- Managing Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in older adults requires a careful, personalized approach. The goal is to control inflammation, manage symptoms, and maintain nutrition while considering other health conditions. Dr. Narvaez-Lugo works to find the safest and most effective therapies to ensure the best possible quality of life.
- What does it mean if I have 'fatty liver disease'?
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) means extra fat has accumulated in your liver. Fortunately, in its early stages, it's often manageable with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Dr. Narvaez-Lugo can help you monitor and manage this important health indicator.
- Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) a serious disease?
- While Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can cause significant discomfort with symptoms like gas, bloating, and cramping, it is not a serious disease and does not damage the intestine or increase cancer risk. Dr. Narvaez-Lugo can help identify triggers and develop a management plan to significantly reduce symptoms.
- What are the treatment options for painful hemorrhoids?
- Hemorrhoids are a common and often uncomfortable issue, but many cases can be effectively managed with dietary changes and at-home care. If symptoms persist, Dr. Narvaez-Lugo offers minimally invasive in-office procedures like banding, which are quick, effective, and require minimal downtime.
- I have constant heartburn. Is it just 'acid reflux' or something more?
- Your concern about persistent heartburn is valid. While often related to GERD, Dr. Narvaez-Lugo can determine the exact cause and recommend the best treatment plan, potentially including lifestyle changes, medications, or other approaches to manage symptoms and prevent potential complications.
2572 W State Road 426
Oviedo FL 32765
Phone: (407) 478-0882
Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1891714168
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Gastroenterology like Dr. Jessica Narvaez-Lugo are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.