Dr. Evelyn Kessel, MD

Dr. Evelyn Kessel, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at her clinic in Fort Myers, FL, dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), ensuring 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. She serves all ages, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (239) 561-7337 to schedule.

Dr. Evelyn Kessel, MD is a gastroenterologist in Fort Myers, FL with over 35 years of experience in the medical field. With a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, she brings a dedicated focus to Gastrointestinal Disorders, Pancreatic Disease, and Esophageal Disorders. She earned her medical degree from University Of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 1988 and is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Kessel is affiliated with medical facilities such as Cape Coral Hospital and Lee Memorial Hospital. She is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments and offers consultations in German.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Evelyn Kessel 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. Evelyn Kessel 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. Evelyn Kessel 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:

• Noninfectious Gastroenteritis and Colitis: Preventing severe consequences of noninfectious gastroenteritis and colitis relies on recognizing early warning signs and seeking timely medical attention to prevent chronic issues and improve your quality of life.
• Intestinal Obstruction: Early diagnosis and treatment of conditions that can lead to intestinal obstruction, such as tumors or hernias, is crucial for preventing surgical intervention and preserving digestive health.
• Diverticulitis: Managing diverticulitis effectively involves lifestyle changes and medical attention to prevent flare-ups and long-term health issues. A healthy diet and regular bowel movements are crucial in managing this condition.
• Hepatitis B: Managing Hepatitis B effectively through medication and lifestyle changes helps prevent cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
• Colon Cancer: Managing your risk factors for colon cancer, such as diet and lifestyle choices, combined with preventative screenings, reduces your chances of developing this disease.
• Diffuse Esophageal Spasm: Diffuse esophageal spasm is a condition causing painful chest pain and difficulty swallowing, and early detection through regular checkups can help prevent serious complications.
• Acute Gastritis: Acute gastritis is a sudden inflammation of your stomach lining, often preventable by avoiding irritants like excessive alcohol and NSAIDs, thus protecting against more serious complications.
• Hemochromatosis: Managing hemochromatosis through bloodletting or chelation therapy helps prevent organ damage and other complications, emphasizing the critical role of proactive healthcare and early intervention.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Early recognition of IBS symptoms and seeking medical advice can prevent long-term complications like severe abdominal pain and malnutrition.
• Vomiting Disorders: Persistent vomiting might signal an underlying digestive issue; early detection through regular check-ups can help prevent long-term complications.
• Dysentery: Proper hygiene and safe water and food practices are key to preventing dysentery, a serious infection that can significantly affect the health of your intestines.
• Celiac Disease: Prevent serious complications from celiac disease by getting screened if you have symptoms like diarrhea or unexplained weight loss; early detection and management are key to maintaining a healthy digestive system.

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. Evelyn Kessel offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Liver Function Test: Take charge of your liver health: a liver function test screens for liver damage or disease, enabling preventative measures and improving your long-term wellbeing.
• 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.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Invest in your long-term well-being: a colorectal cancer screening is a simple yet powerful step in preventing and catching this disease early.
• pH Probe: This simple test involves a small sensor that monitors stomach acid, providing valuable information for preventing or managing conditions affecting your esophagus and stomach.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Taking charge of your colon health starts with a sigmoidoscopy, a simple test that screens for precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer, often preventing these conditions from developing.
• 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.
• Bile Duct Procedure: Protecting your liver and gallbladder, a bile duct procedure allows for the early detection and treatment of gallstones or other issues impacting bile flow.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: To safeguard your digestive health, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to visually inspect your rectum and lower colon, detecting problems early and helping to prevent more invasive treatments later.
• Anoscopy: An anoscopy is a preventative measure to screen for various conditions affecting the anus and rectum, allowing for timely interventions to improve your overall digestive health.
• Wireless pH Testing: Take control of your digestive health with wireless pH testing – a comfortable way to identify the source of your heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): For comprehensive digestive health, ERCP offers a direct way to detect and treat blockages or diseases affecting your bile ducts and pancreas, thereby preventing severe complications and improving your overall well-being.
• Screening Colonoscopy: Protecting your future health starts with a screening colonoscopy, a simple yet powerful tool for early detection of colon cancer and other digestive issues.

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. Evelyn Kessel 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:

• Recognizing early symptoms of noninfectious gastroenteritis and colitis allowed a patient to seek prompt medical care, preventing chronic issues and significantly improving their daily life. This proactive approach empowered them to confidently manage their health and enjoy a better quality of life.
• By diligently following a proactive health plan, a family was relieved to learn their risk of intestinal obstruction was significantly reduced, allowing them to focus on enjoying life's moments without worry.
• By following a tailored dietary plan and increasing fiber intake, a patient successfully prevented diverticulitis flare-ups, maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She 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. Evelyn Kessel:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

Dr. Kessel is a gastroenterologist, a specialist physician trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. She is also skilled in preventive screenings, such as colonoscopies.

When should I get my first screening colonoscopy?

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

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

Some 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. Evelyn Kessel for a thorough evaluation.

What is 'fatty liver disease' and is it serious?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a very common condition often linked to metabolic health issues like obesity and diabetes. Fortunately, in its early stages, it can often be reversed with lifestyle changes. However, managing it is crucial to prevent progression to more serious liver damage, such as cirrhosis.

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

We partner with patients to achieve and maintain remission through a long-term approach. Advanced therapies manage inflammation, while nutritional guidance and regular monitoring prevent flare-ups and improve quality of life. This collaborative effort ensures optimal outcomes.

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 or difficulty swallowing.

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, triggers damage to the small intestine. It's different from a gluten sensitivity, as it's a serious condition requiring a precise diagnosis from a gastroenterologist before adopting a gluten-free diet.

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. Kessel can help diagnose this issue.

9400 Gladiolus Dr Ste 250
Fort Myers FL 33908
Phone: (239) 561-7337

Dr. Evelyn Kessel, 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): 1861485062

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. Evelyn Kessel 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.