Indicators You Should Visit a Gastroenterologist
The gastrointestinal system comprises many organs that help break down food, absorb nutrients and eliminate waste. You’ll likely notice symptoms if these organs aren’t working correctly.
When those symptoms are accompanied by nausea, vomiting or a lump in your throat, you should schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist. They can help diagnose and treat digestive disorders and certain types of cancer.
Abdominal Pain
If abdominal pain keeps coming back or worsens, it’s time to see a gastroenterologist. They’re specialists in diagnosing and treating problems in the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum and liver.
They may suggest a screening colonoscopy to help prevent colorectal cancer. They also treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease. These are serious illnesses, and they need to be treated quickly.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common problem caused by food poisoning, antibiotics or other health issues. If it happens often or lasts more than a week, your doctor may order tests to determine what’s causing it.
See your doctor immediately if you have diarrhea accompanied by bloody or black stools. It is vital because it could be a sign of a severe condition, like cancer.
Abdominal Discomfort
Abdominal discomfort is a common symptom associated with many severe and non-serious health conditions. A gastroenterologist is an expert in gastrointestinal disorders and can help diagnose pain.
Gastroenterology Of The Rockies can also help you get screened regularly for colorectal cancer. It is a preventive measure that can save your life.
Constipation
Constipation is a common condition in which you have three or fewer bowel movements each week. It is a sign that you may need to see your doctor.
If you are constipated, making a dietary change that includes more fiber is essential. Eating a diet of 20 to 35 grams of fiber daily can help relieve constipation.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
If you have abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating that hasn’t improved after changing your diet or taking medication, it’s time to see a gastroenterologist.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive problem that lifestyle changes, medicine, and stress relief can ease. You may experience diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and gas if you have IBS.
Abdominal Swelling
Abdominal swelling is a sign that something is wrong in your gastrointestinal tract. It can signal a severe problem such as an abdominal hernia, gallstones or cancer.
A gastroenterologist can feel the hollow organs in your abdomen — stomach, small intestine, colon, gallbladder, bile ducts and uterus — to identify problems. They may also use a camera called an endoscope to see the inside.
Abdominal Discomfort with Food
Everyone gets stomach pains from time to time, but if your abdominal discomfort is not going away after a few days or persists for more than a day, it’s a sign you should see a gastroenterologist.
A gastroenterologist can help you determine if you have an allergy, intolerance or chronic condition that is causing your pain. They can also perform screenings to check for colon cancer and other diseases.
Abdominal Pain with Eating
If you’ve persistent stomach pain after eating, it may be a sign of a severe problem. Frequent stomach aches are a sign of food allergies or other conditions you can’t treat quickly with lifestyle changes and dietary modifications alone.
A sharp pain that doesn’t let up could mean acute appendicitis, diverticulitis, or a severe infection that needs urgent treatment.
Abdominal Pain with Eating and Swallowing
Abdominal pain with eating and swallowing can indicate a severe digestive problem. If you regularly experience abdominal pain that doesn’t go away, it’s time to see a gastroenterologist.
There are many different gastrointestinal disorders; the cause can be anything from a food allergy to severe disease. Symptoms like stomach pain and bloating may disappear on their own, but you should see a doctor if they’re painful or persist.
Abdominal Pain with Eating and Swallowing and Eating
Abdominal pain while eating can be caused by various issues, from indigestion to GERD. Your doctor may order a series of tests, including X-rays, CT scans and an MRI, to pinpoint the cause of your pain.
You can also check your water intake and drink plenty of it. The right amount of water can help keep your digestive system working at its best.
