The office of Dr. Chad Gonzales and Ruth Earley NP. We specialize in Gastroenterology diagnostics and treatments such as a colonoscopy , an upper endoscopy , treatment for liver diseases , Chron’s disease and Colitis , serving the Greater Northern Utah area; Ogden, Salt Lake City, Layton, and Logan.
Monday: 8am – 5pm
Tuesday: 8am – 5pm
Wednesday: 8am – 5pm
Thursday: 8am – 5pm
Friday: 8am – 5pm
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Gastroenterology focuses on the health of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A specialist in this field evaluates how these organs work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and remove waste. Patients are often referred for evaluation when routine symptoms persist or when screening for certain conditions is recommended. Because digestive complaints can overlap with diet, stress, and other medical issues, a careful and structured approach helps identify the underlying cause and guide next steps in care.
Colonoscopy is one of the most widely used procedures in gastroenterology. It allows a physician to view the lining of the large intestine using a thin, flexible camera. The exam is commonly recommended for routine screening, for follow-up of certain findings, and for investigating changes in bowel habits, bleeding, or unexplained discomfort. Preparation typically involves a clear-liquid diet and a cleansing solution the day before. The procedure itself is usually completed on an outpatient basis, and most patients resume normal activities within a short recovery window.
Upper endoscopy, sometimes called EGD, examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first portion of the small intestine. It is often used to evaluate persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained upper abdominal pain. During the procedure, a thin flexible scope is passed through the mouth while the patient is sedated. Biopsies can be taken when needed, and certain therapeutic interventions can be performed at the same time. Recovery is generally quick, and patients are usually observed briefly before going home the same day.
Acid-related conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, and related disorders are among the most common reasons people seek gastroenterology care. Symptoms can include burning chest discomfort, regurgitation, bloating, and upper abdominal pain. Lifestyle factors, medications, infections, and individual anatomy all play a role. Evaluation may involve endoscopy, specialized testing, or imaging. Treatment plans typically combine dietary guidance, medication management, and follow-up to monitor healing and reduce the likelihood of recurring symptoms.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, both of which involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Symptoms may include abdominal cramping, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue. Because these conditions tend to fluctuate over time, ongoing monitoring is an important part of care. Treatment strategies often involve a combination of medication, nutritional support, and routine endoscopic assessment to track disease activity and adjust therapy as needs change.
Liver-related care is another important part of gastroenterology practice. The liver performs hundreds of essential functions, from filtering blood to producing proteins that support digestion and clotting. Conditions such as fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, cirrhosis, and viral hepatitis can affect liver health over time. Many liver conditions develop silently in early stages, which is why laboratory monitoring and imaging are often used alongside clinical evaluation. Early identification and steady follow-up can help support long-term liver function and overall well-being.
Functional and motility disorders affect how the digestive system moves and processes food, even when standard tests appear normal. Irritable bowel syndrome, chronic constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and related symptoms fall into this category. Evaluation may involve breath testing, dietary review, and specialized studies that measure how the esophagus, stomach, or lower digestive tract function. Because these disorders can significantly affect daily comfort, a personalized plan that addresses triggers, nutrition, and symptom patterns often plays a central role in care.
Diagnostic and therapeutic technologies continue to expand what gastroenterology can offer in a comfortable outpatient setting. Capsule endoscopy allows visualization of parts of the small intestine that are harder to reach with traditional scopes. ERCP combines imaging and endoscopy to address certain bile and pancreatic duct conditions. Anorectal manometry, esophageal impedance testing, and hydrogen breath testing provide additional detail about how specific parts of the digestive system are working. Together, these tools support more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
Procedures
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Gastrointestinal Disease
Liver and Pancreas
Patient Resources