Reasons To See A Gastroenterologist

 

If you are experiencing digestive issues or if it is time for a colorectal cancer screening, you may need to visit a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the digestive system. This includes diseases and disorders affecting the entire gastrointestinal tract, the liver, the gallbladder and the pancreas. Gastroenterologists also provide preventive screenings for diseases, such as colorectal cancer.

What Conditions Do Gastroenterologists Diagnose And Treat?

Although gastroenterologists address a wide range of gastrointestinal problems, some of the more common conditions include:

  • Achalasia
  • Appendicitis
  • Cancer
  • Celiac Disease (gluten allergy) and Other Food Allergies
  • Colorectal Polyps
  • Diverticulitis
  • Esophagitis
  • Gallstones
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
  • Gastroparesis
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Hiatal hernias
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
  • Irritable Bowel Disease (IBS)
  • Liver Disease (fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis)
  • Pancreatitis
  • Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Stomach Ulcers

 

Signs You May Need To See A Gastroenterologist

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below (particularly if they are ongoing or severe, or if they are accompanied by other symptoms), you should consider seeing a gastroenterologist or speaking with your primary physician about a referral.

  • Abdominal pain, especially if it is severe and/or sudden
  • Abnormal bowel movements (diarrhea, constipation, light-colored stools)
  • Bloating
  • Bloody stools or rectal bleeding
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive gas/gas pain
  • Heartburn that doesn’t go away
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Unexplained weight loss

Another reason to see a gastroenterologist is for colorectal cancer screening. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all adults begin screening from the age of 45. If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, earlier screenings may be recommended. Make sure that you know your risks, and get the recommended screenings when they are due.

 

The team at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C. treats multiple conditions and diseases of the GI tract. Our Board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care you can trust. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 631-9121 or click here.