Whether you’re experiencing stomach pain, trouble swallowing, frequent heartburn, irregular bowel movements, or are 50+ years of age, you may want to consult a gastroenterologist.
Who Is a Gastroenterologist?
Gastroenterologists are doctors who specialize in the digestive system’s health. Whenever we think of the digestive system, we usually picture the stomach and intestines. However, the gastroenterologist is trained to diagnose and treat problems throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver.
When Should I Visit a GI Doctor Over My Primary Care Doctor?
Medical concerns involving your digestive track require a specialist to diagnose and treat your ailment correctly – those specialists are gastroenterologists. Here are a few common reasons to visit your local GI doctor.
1. Unusual Bowel Movements
If you experience ongoing constipation, severe diarrhea, or blood in the stool, these are telltale signs that you need to pay your gastroenterologist a visit. While the symptoms could turn out to be nothing, they could be signs of a more severe condition such as ulcerative colitis.
2. Unexplained Weight Loss
While many of us dream about losing those extra few pounds, if it happens unexpectedly, it may be a sign that something is not quite right. Diseases such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease can all contribute to unexpected weight loss.
3. Frequent Heartburn
Occasional heartburn from eating your favorite spicy tacos is probably nothing to worry about, but frequent, recurring heartburn may be a sign of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
4. Colorectal Cancer Screenings
Experts suggest that anyone over the age of 50 should schedule a screening at least once per year to determine if cancer cells have developed in the rectum or colon areas.
Need To Schedule an Appointment?
For those in the Katy region, the medical professionals at Gastro Health & Nutrition – Katy help you identify, treat, and manage your gastrointestinal issues, allowing you to have incredible experiences in your lives that otherwise might not have been possible. With a board-certified physician in Gastroenterology and Hepatology and expert staff, they pride themselves on providing a comfortable, safe environment in which they educate their patients to fully understand what is affecting their body and how it is best treated. Contact them today to schedule an appointment.
