Dr. Brian Lacy, MD

Dr. Brian Lacy, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL, dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring patients receive the highest standards of care. Your gastroenterologist is your primary partner in lifelong digestive health, creating personalized plans for prevention, coordinating crucial screenings, and managing the wellness of your entire digestive system—from esophagus to liver—to keep you feeling your best for years to come. He serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (904) 914-8182 to schedule.

Dr. Brian Lacy, MD is a gastroenterologist in Jacksonville, FL with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He earned his medical degree from University of Maryland at Baltimore in 1991 and is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He is affiliated with Mayo Clinic In Florida and is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Lacy is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to actively participate in their long-term health. He provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Brian Lacy is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Brian Lacy can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Brian Lacy provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Reflux Esophagitis: Regular check-ups and paying attention to symptoms like persistent heartburn can help detect reflux esophagitis early, allowing for timely intervention and preventing more serious issues down the line.
• Intestinal Ulcer: An intestinal ulcer is a sore on the lining of your intestines, and while often treatable, preventing them through healthy lifestyle choices like balanced nutrition and stress management is key to avoiding complications.
• Noninfectious Gastroenteritis and Colitis: Noninfectious gastroenteritis and colitis, while not caused by infection, can still severely impact your digestive system; proactive lifestyle choices and regular checkups can minimize your risk and manage symptoms effectively.
• Liver Damage from Alcohol: Regular checkups and responsible alcohol use are crucial for preventing liver damage and ensuring the long-term health of your entire digestive tract.
• Duodenal Cancer: While uncommon, duodenal cancer highlights the importance of overall digestive health maintenance. Regular check-ups and addressing any persistent symptoms promptly may aid in early diagnosis.
• Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome: Understanding CVS and its triggers can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of debilitating vomiting episodes, improving overall well-being.
• Proctoptosis: Understanding the risk factors for proctoptosis, such as chronic coughing or straining during bowel movements, enables you to make lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce your chance of developing this condition.
• Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Experiencing frequent gas and bloating? Don't ignore it – seeking professional advice can help pinpoint the cause and prevent long-term digestive issues.
• Duodenitis: Duodenitis can be a warning sign of other underlying issues. Preventive measures include healthy eating and prompt medical attention to ensure early diagnosis and prevent chronic inflammation.
• Abdominal Pain: Even seemingly minor abdominal pain warrants attention as it can signal digestive problems that are better addressed early to prevent long-term health issues.
• Ileus: Managing underlying conditions like abdominal surgery or certain medications can help prevent the occurrence of ileus and its associated discomfort.
• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Properly managing gastrointestinal malabsorption is vital for preventing malnutrition and other complications; proactive healthcare, including regular screenings and dietary adjustments, can significantly improve your quality of life.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Brian Lacy offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Colonoscopy: Protect your future by scheduling a colonoscopy; this procedure provides an in-depth look at your colon, enabling early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: Duodenal polypectomy is a procedure to remove polyps from your duodenum, a part of your small intestine, helping prevent potential complications and enabling early detection of cancerous or precancerous growths.
• Endoscopy: Protecting your digestive health starts with an endoscopy, which provides detailed images of your entire digestive tract, enabling early detection and treatment of a wide range of issues.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): As a proactive step in managing your digestive health, ERCP allows doctors to directly visualize and address blockages or abnormalities in your bile and pancreatic ducts, potentially preventing long-term damage.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Invest in your long-term well-being with a flexible sigmoidoscopy. This painless exam allows for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other lower bowel diseases.
• Liver Biopsy: A liver biopsy is a small procedure that helps doctors diagnose and monitor liver conditions early, allowing for timely treatment and better health outcomes.
• Manometry: Manometry is a valuable tool for preventing long-term digestive problems. By accurately measuring pressure in your digestive system, it allows for early diagnosis of conditions like achalasia or gastroparesis, enabling timely treatment and improved quality of life.
• Proctosigmoidoscopy: A proctosigmoidoscopy is a quick screening test that allows your doctor to visually examine your rectum and sigmoid colon for any abnormalities, helping detect colon cancer early.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: Taking a proactive step towards better gut health, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy provides a visual examination of your rectum and sigmoid colon, enabling early detection of potential issues and preventing more serious problems.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy is a quick screening procedure that helps detect colon polyps and cancer early, allowing for prompt treatment and potentially saving your life.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterology in Florida.

Dr. Brian Lacy is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By attending regular check-ups and addressing persistent heartburn symptoms, a patient was able to identify and manage reflux esophagitis early, preventing potential long-term complications.
• By focusing on a balanced diet and stress-reducing techniques, a patient significantly lowered their risk of developing intestinal ulcers, gaining peace of mind about their long-term health.
• By following a personalized plan of proactive lifestyle changes and regular checkups, a patient significantly reduced their risk of experiencing the uncomfortable symptoms of noninfectious gastroenteritis and colitis. This proactive approach allowed them to maintain a healthy digestive system and enjoy a more comfortable and confident life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Gastrointestinal care with Dr. Brian Lacy:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

Dr. Lacy and our team of gastroenterologists are specialists trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. We are experts in preventive screenings like colonoscopies and provide comprehensive care for all your digestive health needs.

When should I get my first screening colonoscopy?

For average-risk individuals, routine screening colonoscopies are now recommended to begin at age 45. However, those with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Lacy will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

What are gallstones?

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Many people have them without any problems. They only become a concern if they cause blockages, leading to pain, and Dr. Lacy can help diagnose this issue.

What is H. pylori?

H. pylori is a common type of bacteria that can live in the stomach. In some people, it can cause gastritis and ulcers. It can be easily detected with breath or stool tests and effectively treated with a course of antibiotics.

How do you manage chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis?

We partner with patients to achieve and maintain remission of chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. This involves advanced therapies to control inflammation, personalized nutritional guidance, and regular monitoring to prevent flare-ups and improve quality of life.

What are some common signs of liver problems I should watch for?

Common signs of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, and unexplained dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Lacy for a thorough evaluation.

What is the difference between a colonoscopy and an upper endoscopy (EGD)?

A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) to screen for colon cancer, while an upper endoscopy (EGD) examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine to diagnose issues like heartburn, ulcers, or difficulty swallowing.

What is the difference between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is an autoimmune condition causing inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), on the other hand, is a functional disorder characterized by symptoms like cramping and bloating, but without the same physical inflammation or damage.

4500 San Pablo Rd S
Jacksonville FL 32224
Phone: (904) 914-8182

Dr. Brian Lacy, 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): 1518980135

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Gastroenterology like Dr. Brian Lacy are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your gastroenterology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.