Dr. Hector Gonzalez, MD

Dr. Hector Gonzalez, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist practicing at Gastro Health - Central Broward in Plantation, FL. He is deeply committed to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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 (561) 565-6576 to schedule.

Dr. Hector Gonzalez, MD is a gastroenterologist in Plantation, FL, affiliated with HCA Florida Woodmont Hospital. He is accepting new patients and dedicated to collaborative, evidence-based medicine. He earned his medical degree from St. Georges University School Of Medicine and is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Gonzalez strives to create a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health, fostering a partnership built on shared knowledge and proactive strategies for optimal digestive well-being. He provides consultations primarily in English.

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

• Diaphragmatic and Hiatal Hernia: A diaphragmatic or hiatal hernia, where part of your stomach pushes up through your diaphragm, can cause heartburn and other issues, highlighting the importance of early detection and lifestyle changes to prevent complications.
• Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: Mallory-Weiss syndrome, a tear in the lining of your esophagus, is often preventable by managing conditions like chronic vomiting or forceful coughing, highlighting the importance of proactive health strategies.
• Celiac Disease: Managing celiac disease involves a lifelong commitment to a gluten-free diet, but this preventive measure safeguards your digestive system and protects you from severe health complications.
• Diarrhea: Persistent diarrhea can be a sign of underlying digestive issues, so seeking medical attention early helps prevent serious complications and ensures timely treatment.
• Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Managing gas and bloating effectively is key to maintaining overall digestive health and preventing the development of more severe gastrointestinal conditions.
• Hepatitis C: Hepatitis C is a liver infection that can be prevented through safe practices and early detection, which is key to avoiding long-term liver damage.
• Duodenitis: Duodenitis, inflammation of your duodenum (the first part of your small intestine), can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing this often manageable condition.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that, while not preventable, can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and early intervention to minimize its impact on your daily life.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Regular health checkups and screenings can help identify gastrointestinal bleeding early, enabling timely intervention and better outcomes.
• Ulcerative Colitis: Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can be better managed with early detection and lifestyle changes, preventing serious complications like colon cancer.
• Nausea: While occasional nausea is normal, frequent nausea may indicate a problem with your digestive system, highlighting the importance of proactive healthcare to maintain gut health.
• Hemorrhoids: Early detection of hemorrhoids is crucial to managing symptoms and preventing complications like bleeding, pain, and the need for more complex treatments.

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

• Colonoscopy: Invest in your well-being with a colonoscopy. This valuable screening tool helps detect colon cancer and other intestinal issues at an early, more treatable stage.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: For comprehensive digestive health management, duodenal polypectomy helps identify and remove polyps in your duodenum, a proactive approach to preventing potential complications like cancer.
• Endoscopy: An endoscopy is a proactive procedure that allows doctors to visually examine your digestive system, helping detect problems like ulcers, polyps, or cancers early on when treatment is most effective.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Take a proactive step towards better gut health with a flexible sigmoidoscopy—a screening test that detects early signs of colon cancer and other digestive issues.
• Manometry: For a comprehensive assessment of your digestive health, consider manometry. This test helps detect motility disorders, ensuring that any issues affecting your ability to swallow, digest food, or move waste are identified and treated promptly, preventing potentially severe consequences.
• Proctosigmoidoscopy: For early diagnosis of colorectal issues, a proctosigmoidoscopy allows your doctor to directly examine the lower part of your large intestine for signs of disease and inflammation.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: As part of your preventive healthcare, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy offers a direct examination of your lower intestine, helping identify and address issues like polyps or bleeding before they become major health concerns.

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. Hector Gonzalez 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 making dietary changes and practicing relaxation techniques, a patient significantly reduced their risk of experiencing the discomfort associated with a diaphragmatic hernia, gaining greater control over their digestive health.
• By addressing underlying conditions like chronic acid reflux, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing a Mallory-Weiss tear, gaining peace of mind and a proactive approach to their digestive health.
• By meticulously following a gluten-free diet, a patient was able to maintain a healthy digestive system and avoid potential long-term health issues related to celiac disease.

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. Hector Gonzalez:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

Dr. Gonzalez and our team are gastroenterologists, meaning we are specialists in the health of your digestive system, including your esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. We are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions, and in performing preventive screenings like 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, those with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Hector Gonzalez will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

I have frequent heartburn. When should I be concerned?

While occasional heartburn is common, frequent or worsening symptoms (more than twice a week) should prompt a visit. This could be a sign of GERD, which if left untreated can lead to more serious problems. Dr. Hector Gonzalez can diagnose the cause and create an effective treatment plan.

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.

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, triggers damage to the small intestine. It's different from a gluten sensitivity, and a proper diagnosis from a gastroenterologist like Dr. Gonzalez is crucial before starting a gluten-free diet.

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

Dr. Gonzalez's approach to chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis is a long-term partnership focused on achieving and maintaining remission. We utilize advanced therapies to control inflammation, alongside personalized nutritional guidance and regular monitoring to prevent flare-ups and improve your quality of life.

What is a capsule endoscopy?

Capsule endoscopy is a modern, non-invasive way to examine the small intestine, an area difficult to reach with traditional scopes. A small, pill-sized camera is swallowed, taking thousands of pictures as it travels through the digestive tract.

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. Dr. Gonzalez can help diagnose this issue.

Gastro Health - Central Broward
8329 W Sunrise Blvd
Plantation FL 33322
Phone: (561) 565-6576

Dr. Hector Gonzalez, 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): 1629500129

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. Hector Gonzalez 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.