Gastroenterology

Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Bryan Hospital: 419-630-2021
Archbold Medical Center: 419-446-3019

Meet D. Matt Cooley, MD

Credentials for Dr. Matt Cooley, Gastroenterologist

Gastroenterology Fellowship at St. John Providence Hospital & Medical Centers at Michigan State University
Internal Medicine Residency at University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics
Doctor of Medicine from The Ohio State University
BA in Zoology from Miami University

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a physician who specializes in digestive health disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, gallstones and celiac disease. Gastroenterologists have undergone extensive training and certification in internal medicine, then pursued their specialty in gastroenterology. Gastroenterologists are trained to perform procedures such as sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy, which are used to diagnose and prevent digestive health issues.

Gastroenterology is the study of disorders that affect the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. This broad area requires a gastroenterologist to have an in-depth understanding of all functions of the digestive system.

In most cases, your primary care physician will refer you to a gastroenterologist if your digestive issues are beyond the scope of their practice. If you are diagnosed with a severe gastrointestinal disease, the gastroenterologist will likely become your primary point of care.

At the Gastroenterology Clinic at Bryan Hospital and Archbold Medical Center, we treat people who are suffering from a variety of gastrointestinal issues. Meet our gastroenterologist, Dr. Cooley

Gastroenterology Conditions Treated

Gastroenterologists specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, management and treatment of the following conditions:

Anemia

Anemia is a condition that impacts the body’s ability to create healthy red blood cells. The red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to the various tissues and organs throughout the body. Anemia can be temporary or permanent depending on the specific type of anemia diagnosed.

Barrett's Esophagus

This condition occurs when the lining of the esophagus transforms, taking on the texture and appearance similar to the lining of the small intestines. This condition commonly forms with people who suffer from ongoing GERD. This disease is an early indicator for esophageal cancer.

Biliary Diseases

Biliary disease impacts the gallbladder and other systems in the body responsible for producing and moving bile throughout the body. Bile is necessary to help break down fatty substances. An early indicator of a serious biliary disease is an infection of the bile ducts or organs.

Celiac Disease

Considered a disease of the immune system, celiac disease occurs when a person is intolerant of gluten. This disease impacts the small intestine, slowly damaging the tissue over time. Early symptoms of the disease include gas, diarrhea, fatigue, or inflammation after eating foods that contain gluten.

Crohn's Disease

This disease causes the digestive track to become inflamed. This can lead to severe diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain. It is believed Crohn’s Disease is an autoimmune disease where the body reacts negatively toward naturally occurring bacteria in the digestive system.

Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a generic term for people who have difficulty swallowing. This condition can take several forms including difficulty swallowing water, swallowing food, or simply choking or coughing when trying to swallow.

Gallbladder Disease

The gallbladder is located under the liver and is responsible for producing bile to help the body digest fatty substances. Gallbladder disease can refer to an infection, inflammation, a blockage, or gallbladder stones.

Gallstones

The gallbladder is responsible for creating bile that helps digest food. The bile created is usually transported to the liver for use, but sometimes the bile can become blocked in the gallbladder. Over time, the bile hardens creating gallstones which can lead to blockages in the gallbladder.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

In this disease acid formed in the stomach and used to help digest food rises in the stomach and into the esophagus. This can take the form of acid reflux, commonly felt by people on occasion. If acid reflux occurs more than twice per week, it is commonly diagnosed as GERD.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This a generic term that usually refers to two different inflammatory diseases in the bowl, either Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis. This blanket term refers to the general inflammation of the systems and tissues that make up the digestive track.

Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Unlike inflammatory bowel disease, IBS usually does not cause lesions or ulcers to form within the digestive track. IBS typically only involves the colon, where IBD can involve the intestines too.

Liver Diseases

The liver is a vital organ in the body responsible for working as a filter to eliminate fatty substances. There are several diseases that can impact the liver including infection, inflammation, and hepatitis.

Malabsorption

Malabsorption occurs when a person is unable to absorb certain nutrients and minerals from food. This can impact the way the body functions and may require additives to supplement the lack of mineral absorption. Common malabsorption conditions include celiac disease and lactose intolerance.

Pancreatic Disorders

There are many disorders and diseases that can impact that pancreas including acute, chronic, and hereditary pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer is also a pancreatic disorder. Often, pancreatic disorders are difficult to diagnose due to the location and hidden nature of the pancreas.

Ulcerative Colitis

This inflammatory bowel disease is a condition that typically impacts the inner most lining of the large intestine and colon. It causes ulcers and lesions to form on the lining of the intestines.

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Cancer Screening

In addition to digestive health treatments, gastroenterologists perform colorectal cancer screenings. Gastroenterologists are trained in endoscopy, the use of a tube with a built-in camera to inspect the inside of the intestinal tract.

“A large part of gastroenterology,” says Dr. Matt Cooley, “Is centered around prevention. Screening colonoscopy has led to a significant decline in colon cancers and allows for treatment of pre-cancerous polyps before they become something more concerning.”

The American Cancer Society recommends scheduling regular screenings with a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy every 10 years once you reach the age of 45. Depending on your family history, you may need to schedule sooner. Consult with your family doctor about the best timing for you.

Need to schedule an appointment? Call us today!

Bryan Hospital: 419-630-2021
Archbold Medical Center: 419-446-3019