Gastroenterology

gas·tro·en·ter·ol·o·gy
/ˌɡastrōˌen(t)əˈräləjē/
noun
  1. the branch of medicine which deals with disorders of the stomach and intestines.

Mission and Specialties

With a mission to protect each patient’s health through the early detection and treatment of colon, stomach and esophageal conditions; we strive to provide high quality care.

By specializing in Endoscopy, Gastroenterology and Nutrition we also bring together a holistic approach to health and wellness for every patient – from those struggling with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), unexplained abdominal pain and hemorrhoids to those suffering with diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome and more.

Abdominal Pain

Everyone has had a bellyache at one time or another, but if your abdominal pain just won’t go away then it could be a sign of a more serious illness. From Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease to Kidney Stones and Appendicitis, we can diagnosis and expertly treat your condition.

Acid Reflux

A common condition that features a burning sensation in your chest and throat, Acid Reflux, happens when stomach acids flow back up into the food pipe or esophagus. Frequent episodes; however, may be an indicator of a more serious condition so it is important to talk to your doctor to see if you need a referral for our care.

Capsule Endoscopy

Using a pill-sized, state-of-the-art wireless camera, we can take pictures of your digestive tract in the most non-invasive way possible. This procedure allows us to quickly and thoroughly diagnose ailments for anyone who suspects they may have a polyp, ulcer or even Chron’s disease.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

With more than two million adults in the United States suffering with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it remains the most common disorder diagnosed by gastroenterologists. If you feel constipated or are experiencing frequent diarrhea and/or abdominal pain, you may want to seek relief with one of our treatments.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopies are the most accurate exam available for the detection and prevention of colon and rectum cancers. It has literally saved lives and is highly recommended for everyone. Most people get their first screenings around the age of 50; however, it is best to consult with your primary care physician, especially if you feel like you are already showing signs of cancer or if you have a family history of colon or rectum cancer.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue and anemia. It also can range from being relatively mild to extremely debilitating and, in some instances, lead to life-threatening flares and complications. We have many treatment options available to keep conditions in remission and to even reduce symptoms, so give us a call today.

Advanced Endoscopy

Being Board Certified in Advanced Endoscopy means we have special training in a variety of specific procedures designed to provide improved options for the treatment and diagnosis of a variety of digestive disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Our goal is to get you healed and back doing the things you love.

Barrett's Esophagus and Ablation Techniques

Roughly 10% of patients with chronic reflux also have Barrett’s Esophagus, a condition that increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Understanding this rare condition and offering diagnosis and treatment options (including Ablation techniques that expose the diseased tissue to heat) is just another service we offer; we can even help with preventing recurrence.

Fatty Liver Disease

Your liver is the largest organ in your body and has a lot of responsibility; it helps your body digest food, store energy and remove poisons. If fat builds up over time in your liver, it may not function as well as it should and can cause a series of health issues, including Fatty Liver Disease. It can also lead to other more serious conditions. We can provide medical treatment that improves the function of your liver and overall health.

GERD and BRAVO pH Monitoring Study

If you are experiencing Acid Reflux more than two times a week, then you might have gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. The Bravo pH wireless system is designed to be user-friendly and has an added advantage of prolonged pH monitoring that transmits readings helps to get you back to feeling better in no time.

Blood in Stool

Seeing blood after going to the bathroom can be disconcerting, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be concerned. Blood in the stool means there is bleeding somewhere in your digestive tract and the cause could be anything from a small fissure to Diverticular Disease. Having an evaluation to pinpoint the cause and make sure nothing more serious is going on is a good idea.

Hemorrhoids

When veins in the lower part of the anus and rectum become swollen and stretched, then Hemorrhoids appear and the sensation can be very unpleasant and painful. The good news is that they are easily treated and very preventable. In situations where hemorrhoids do not respond to conservative measures, we also offer hemorrhoid banding which is a minimally invasive treatment method.

Colitis

While there are different types of Colitis, they all are chronic digestive diseases characterized by the inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. Symptoms can include tenderness in the abdominal, rapid weight loss, fatigue, fever and mucus and/or blood in the stool. Treatment of Colitis will depend on the cause, but nutrition plans are also available as part of prevention.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer, is any cancer that affects the colon and the rectum. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women and the third for men so it goes without saying that early diagnosis (which is proven to increase treatment efficacy) is imperative. From regular screenings to innovative treatment options, we are ready to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.

Upper Endoscopy

Upper Endoscopy procedures focus on the examination of the upper digestive system (esophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine). If you are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing and gastrointestinal bleeding, then our board-certified specialist may recommend this in order to find out more.

Diarrhea and Constipation

Bowel movements are a normal part of everyday life. In constipation, bowel movements either occur less often than expected or the stool is dry, hard and difficult to pass. With diarrhea, stools are watery and occur more often within a shorter period than usual. Both are uncomfortable and could potentially be a symptom of a larger problem. See your doctor if you are experiencing either of these for longer than 2-3 days.

“I am a Gastroenterologist, Internal Medicine board certified physician, and an assistant clinical professor at JABSOM. I offer a holistic approach to your health and wellness.”

– Dr. Mel Ona

Leeward

590 Farrington Hwy #526A

Kapolei, HI 96707

tel: (808) 762-2311

fax: (808) 427-6051

Ohana Endoscopy

590 Farrington Highway Unit 170

Kapolei, HI 96707

tel: (808) 762-2311

fax: (808) 427-6051

The ultimate prescription is that you find and apply the nutrition program that promotes your best health for life.
Dr. Mel Ona

Schedule An Appointment with Dr. Ona