8 Telltale Signs That It’s Time To See A Gastroenterologist

8 Telltale Signs That It’s Time To See A Gastroenterologist

There is a common misconception that the human gastrointestinal system is restricted to the intestines and the stomach. However, the field of gastroenterology covers the functioning of and diseases related to the esophagus, small intestine, stomach, pancreas, colon & rectum, gallbladder, liver, and bile ducts. Healthcare facilities like the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad, is specialized in the field, making it possible for patients to receive a focused treatment approach for their gastrointestinal concerns.

Some of the most common medical conditions that come under the purview of a gastroenterologist include:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• GERD (Acid Reflux & Heartburn)
• Celiac Disease
• Polyps
• Pancreatitis
• Ulcers
• Hemorrhoids
• Gastrointestinal Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer

Basic nagging symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, etc could be the little signs that need to be kept track of. A problem that persists is a possible sign that it’s time to see a gastroenterologist.

When The Symptoms Are New

If a person begins to experience digestive symptoms for the first time, the initial approach can be to get a consultation with a family physician or an internal medicine specialist. The best case scenario in such a case would be to see a physician who has a working knowledge of that individual’s medical history.

Post this consultation, the doctor will be able to determine if and what tests need to be conducted to establish the cause of the persisting symptoms. The test could be a physical exam, imaging studies, or lab tests.

Based on the results of these tests, the physician may then go ahead and refer the patient to a gastroenterologist.

When A Condition Is Diagnosed

Individuals with a chronic/ongoing digestive related condition need long-term treatment & care plan with a gastroenterologist. Moreover, if symptoms related to an existing digestive or intestinal condition elevate, the best approach is to consult a gastroenterologist.

Medical experts and facilities that is specialized in the field of gastroenterology, like the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad can assess the change in symptoms and how they relate to the existing condition, and device a suitable treatment & care plan.

To be able to make a decision in the right time, it is important to know and understand these 8 signs that tell it’s time to consider visiting a Gastroenterologist.

•Abnormal Bowel Movement

If you have been suffering from a constant case of constipation, with fewer than three stools per week, it could be due to a blockage, hormonal issues, your diet, neurological issues, muscular malfunction, among other factors.

On the other hand, if you have been experiencing a severe case of diarrhea that has been going on for more then a few days, it could be an indicator of a digestive disorder that needs to be handled by an expert.

•Rectal Bleeding

Blood passing with your stools could be indicative of the fact that there is bleeding somewhere in the digestive tract. The severity of the cause for this could vary, which will have to be determined by a medical expert in the field.

•Abdominal Pain & Bloating

Bloating or abdominal pain that occurs after almost every meal, sometimes accompanied by uncomfortable bowel movement or nausea is a condition that needs to be communicated to a physician. The physician who could then refer the patient to a gastroenterologist for further examination and tests.

•Frequent Heartburn

Frequent heartburns could be on an account of multiple medical conditions, that would need to be looked into by a Gastroenterologist. This symptom could be on account of GERD, Barrett’s Esophagus or something worse.

•Esophageal Pain/Difficult In Swallowing

An individual experiences difficulty in swallowing or is finding it absolutely impossible to swallow. This difficulty in swallowing could build up over time.

•Cancer Screening

After a certain age, it is recommended to schedule regular screening for cancer with a gastroenterologist, to stay on the lookout for any cancer affecting your digestive tract.

•Ulcer

An ulcer in the stomach or the intestine can manifest with burning stomach pain. This means that every time the patient eats something, the acids that break down the food end up causing the pain.

•Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids is a condition where the veins in your rectum get irritated, resulting in swelling.

Benefit From A Timely Diagnosis

A timely diagnosis with a gastroenterologist can surely take the treatment process in a positive direction. This is especially critical and stands true in case of Cancers related to the digestive system.