Dr. Ramesh Ashwath, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults (65 and over) at his clinic in Brandon, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Ashwath's expertise lies in managing the complex digestive conditions frequently encountered in seniors, such as colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues. He works collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care, recognizing the unique needs of this population. Dr. Ashwath, who earned his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College, Bangalore University in 1992, completed rigorous medical training, including residency training in Gastroenterology at Christ Hospital Medical Center, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of older adults (65 and over). Following this, he pursued a fellowship in Gastroenterology and Hepatology from Virginia Commonwealth University and further training in advanced gastrointestinal endoscopy. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Ashwath is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached by calling (561) 763-8421 to schedule an appointment. Our compassionate practice is dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of these digestive diseases. Dr. Ashwath offers consultations in Spanish.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ramesh Ashwath is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ashwath acts as a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive gastroenterological care. He expertly manages complex digestive conditions, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure a holistic and personalized approach. This includes addressing concerns like colon cancer, GERD, swallowing disorders, and liver issues, all while prioritizing the well-being and comfort of the individual.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ramesh Ashwath can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Ambetter
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Humana
Sunshine Health
WellCare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Midwest Health Plan
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ramesh Ashwath 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:
- Folate Deficiency Anemia: Feeling unusually tired or weak? It could be folate deficiency anemia, a condition where your body lacks enough folate to produce red blood cells; simple dietary changes or supplements can usually boost your energy and improve your quality of life.
- Colorectal Polyp: A colorectal polyp is a small growth on the lining of your colon or rectum, and while most are harmless, some can develop into colon cancer, making regular screenings important for early detection and treatment.
- Colitis: Experiencing frequent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and urgent bowel movements? Colitis, or inflammation of the colon, might be the cause, and working closely with your doctor, you can find ways to effectively manage these symptoms and improve your daily comfort.
- Hernia: Imagine a weak spot in your abdominal wall letting your insides bulge out that's a hernia. Depending on the type and severity, treatment options range from watchful waiting to surgery, significantly improving your overall well-being.
- Hepatitis: While a hepatitis diagnosis may seem daunting, effective treatments are available to slow its progression and improve your symptoms. This can help you maintain your daily routines and enjoy your favorite activities.
- Esophageal Ulcer: Developing an esophageal ulcer can be concerning, but with a doctor's care, involving medication or other interventions, you can reduce pain and improve your ability to eat comfortably.
- Alcoholic Gastritis: If you experience persistent stomach pain or discomfort linked to alcohol use, you may have alcoholic gastritis, a condition manageable with medical support to improve your digestion and overall health.
- Barretts Esophagus with Dysplasia: Having Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia means some cells in your esophagus have abnormal changes, making it more likely to develop cancer; however, regular check-ups and treatments can help keep you healthy and independent.
- Intestinal Prolapse: If you experience a prolapse of your intestine, it means a portion has slipped down or out; this can lead to issues with bowel movements, but many effective treatments can ease symptoms and improve your comfort and independence.
- All Types of Food Poisoning: Food poisoning happens when you eat or drink something contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins, causing unpleasant digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can be managed with rest, fluids, and sometimes medication to improve comfort and prevent dehydration.
- Infectious Diarrheal Disease: Infectious diarrhea is a temporary illness caused by bacteria or viruses, resulting in frequent bowel movements and possible discomfort. Getting the right fluids and possibly medical treatment helps prevent complications and aids a speedy recovery.
- Pancreatic Pseudocyst: Sometimes, after an injury to the pancreas, a fluid-filled cyst forms nearby; this is called a pancreatic pseudocyst, and while it can cause discomfort, treatment options are available to reduce symptoms and maintain your quality of life.
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. Ramesh Ashwath offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Sigmoidoscopy: As part of your comprehensive care plan, a sigmoidoscopy offers a safe and effective way to screen for colon cancer and other conditions affecting the lower colon, allowing for early intervention.
- Manometry: As part of a comprehensive assessment of your digestive health, manometry provides valuable information about the strength and coordination of the muscles involved in moving food through your digestive system.
- Esophagogastric Fundoplasty: As part of a comprehensive care plan for seniors with debilitating GERD, esophagogastric fundoplasty can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn, improving their overall health and well-being.
- 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.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This examination uses a flexible scope to visualize your sigmoid colon, aiding in the early diagnosis of colorectal issues like polyps, inflammation, or cancer, contributing to a more comprehensive care plan.
- Biliary Drainage: For seniors with gallbladder or liver issues, biliary drainage can help manage symptoms like jaundice and pain by restoring normal bile flow.
- Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: To manage symptoms like bleeding or changes in bowel habits, your doctor might recommend rigid proctosigmoidoscopy to pinpoint the cause and guide the most effective treatment plan.
- Pancreas Surgeries: Sometimes, seniors need pancreas surgery to remove damaged or diseased portions of the pancreas, improving their digestive function and assisting in the overall management of their health.
- Colonoscopy: As part of your comprehensive care plan, a colonoscopy provides detailed images of your colon, enabling early detection of issues like polyps, inflammation, or cancer.
- Bile Duct Procedure: If you're having trouble with your liver or gallbladder, a bile duct procedure may be necessary to identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
- 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.
- Proctosigmoidoscopy: Proctosigmoidoscopy is a relatively simple procedure that plays a vital role in preventing serious colon conditions; your doctor uses it to examine the lower part of your colon for any signs of disease.
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. Ramesh Ashwath 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:
- Feeling less fatigued and more energetic, a senior was able to resume their beloved weekly bridge club games, a cherished social activity. The family felt immense relief knowing the condition was manageable and their loved one's quality of life was improving.
- With regular screenings and expert guidance, a senior couple felt significantly more secure about their health, enabling them to enjoy their favorite hobby of traveling again.
- With a gastroenterologist's guidance, a senior found effective strategies to manage colitis symptoms, allowing them to enjoy leisurely strolls again without the frequent discomfort.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He 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. Ramesh Ashwath:
- 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 variety of digestive conditions, helping seniors maintain comfort and well-being.
- Why is a colonoscopy so important for older adults?
- A colonoscopy is crucial for older adults because it's the most effective way to prevent colorectal cancer, which is common in seniors. Dr. Ashwath can find and remove small growths called polyps before they become cancerous, making it a vital proactive step for long-term health and peace of mind.
- What can I expect during my first consultation with Dr. Ramesh Ashwath?
- Your first visit with Dr. Ashwath will involve a comprehensive conversation about your digestive health, including a review of your symptoms, diet, medications, and medical history. This thorough evaluation is the first step toward creating a personalized plan to address your concerns, whether it's heartburn, a change in bowel habits, or a screening.
- 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 adjustments and at-home care. For persistent pain, Dr. Ashwath offers minimally invasive in-office procedures, such as banding, which are quick, effective, and require minimal recovery time.
- 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. Ashwath works to find the safest and most effective therapies to ensure the best possible quality of life.
- What is the preparation for a colonoscopy like?
- We understand that colonoscopy prep can be a concern. It involves a specific diet and prescribed liquid solution to cleanse the colon thoroughly. A clean colon is essential for Dr. Ashwath to perform a precise examination. Our practice provides detailed instructions to make the process as smooth as possible.
- What is the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity?
- Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten, damaging the small intestine, while gluten sensitivity causes similar symptoms but without the immune response or intestinal damage. A gastroenterologist can accurately diagnose the condition and recommend the appropriate management plan.
- I have constant heartburn. Is it just 'acid reflux' or something more?
- We understand your concern about constant heartburn. While frequent heartburn is often related to GERD, it's important to have Dr. Ashwath evaluate the cause. He can determine the reason for your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatments, from lifestyle changes to medication, to manage your discomfort and prevent potential long-term issues.
1130 Kyle Wood Ln
Brandon FL 33511
Phone: (561) 763-8421
Dr. Ramesh Ashwath, 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): 1386698074
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. Ramesh Ashwath 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.