Ask An Expert: Digestive Disorders

My friend seems to choke at least three times a week while drinking or eating. I am worried he may not be able to dislodge the food one of these times. Is there a condition that could cause this or is he chewing improperly or swallowing incorrectly?

What is a "low residue" diet? Why would this be advised? What foods are included in this diet and what foods should I avoid?

I suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. I take Prevacid for heartburn. I know what foods to avoid, but I am having trouble finding what foods are good for me. Any recommendations?

What is Zollinger-Ellison syndrome?

I am an 84-year-old woman who experiences frequent diarrhea. Can it be harmful to use Imodium AD too often? How often can this drug be used safely?

I have a granddaughter who is constipated. Can you tell me what a safe laxative is for a 6-year-old?

For the past three months, I have been experiencing pain in the upper right quadrant of my abdomen. My gallbladder was removed four years ago. My doctor thinks I have something wrong with my "sphincter of Oddi." He prescribed Hyoscyamine and Omeprazole. Can you tell me if this is an appropriate treatment and if there are other options for relieving the pain?

I have mild mitral valvular regurgitation. I am going to have a colonoscopy done next week. What precautions should I take before the colonoscopy? Also, do I need to take antibiotics before a dental procedure, even teeth cleaning?

I have read contradictory information about virtual colonoscopy for people with diverticulitis. Should people with a history of diverticulitis avoid this or is it recommended in certain types of diverticulitis? If so, what types?

I have been diagnosed with acid reflux that has caused granulomas on my vocal cords. What are the chances of this turning into cancer?