Clinical care
Guideline-based gastroenterology for adults, with practical attention to the everyday habits that shape the gut.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Savita Srivastava, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist · Last updated · Sources · Editorial policy
Dr. Srivastava is an adult gastroenterologist. Gastroenterology covers the whole digestive tract, from the esophagus to the colon, along with the liver, pancreas and gallbladder. The practice she leads in Charlottesville was opened to care for a wide range of digestive, liver and gastrointestinal conditions, with a strong focus on screening and prevention.
The services below describe the kinds of care a gastroenterologist provides. What is offered on a given day, and where procedures take place, is set by the practice, so please confirm details with Sentara Gastroenterology Specialists – Charlottesville when you book.
For adults at average risk, US guidelines now recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45 1. Options include colonoscopy and home stool tests such as FIT. A gastroenterologist can help you choose a test, review your family history to see whether you should start earlier, and arrange follow-up colonoscopy when a stool test is positive 2.
Read: screening at 45, explainedHeartburn and reflux, bloating, belly pain, diarrhea, constipation, a change in bowel habits, trouble swallowing, or bleeding. The aim is a clear diagnosis using the fewest tests needed, guided by current practice guidelines 3 4, and a plan you can follow.
Conditions explainedGastroenterologists use endoscopy (a thin, flexible camera) to look inside the digestive tract, take small tissue samples and remove polyps. The two most common procedures are colonoscopy, which examines the colon, and upper endoscopy, which examines the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. Your care team will explain preparation, sedation and recovery for any procedure you need.
Food, sleep, stress and activity all affect digestion. Dr. Srivastava's integrative approach, which she calls Digestive Wellness, brings practical guidance on fiber, plant variety and fermented foods into standard GI care, together with gut–brain therapies when they fit. Supplements, including probiotics, are discussed on the evidence: helpful in a few specific situations, not for everyone 5.
Read: fiber & the microbiomeYour first visit
Gather your medication list (including supplements), any recent test results, and your family history of digestive or colon cancer.
Expect detailed questions about your symptoms, diet, sleep, stress and bowel habits. A two-week symptom diary helps.
You will leave with next steps, which may include tests, a procedure, a diet trial, medicine, or simply watchful follow-up.
Results and follow-up go through the practice and Sentara's patient portal, not through this website.
Appointments
Dr. Srivastava sees patients at Sentara Gastroenterology Specialists – Charlottesville, part of Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital. Start on the contact page, or email [email protected].