What is a Gastroenterologist ? 

A gastroenterologist is a physician who has specialized training and experience in managing diseases of the gastrointestinal tract – the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, colon and rectum. The training involves more than five years of additional education in internal medicine and gastroenterology following medical school. This includes training in endoscopy – the use of narrow, flexible lighted tubes with built-in video cameras used to see the inside of the GI tract.

When Should You See a Gastroenterologist ?

Patients are usually referred to gastroenterologist by their primary care physician. Your physician may recommend you see a gastroenterologist if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms of GI disorders:

• Rectal bleeding
• Leakage/underwear stains
• Bowel movement urges that are hard to control
• Diarrhea
• Change in bowel habits
• Pale-colored stools
• Dark urine
• Heartburn (acid reflux)
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Excessive gas or belching
• Esophageal pain
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite or weight
• Lethargy

Signs & Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Conditions

There are also specific conditions to watch out for. See your physician if you have signs or symptoms of these conditions:

Heartburn/GERD: If you have frequent heartburn for six months or longer and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) aren’t helping, you may need treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). See your physician.

Inflammatory bowel disease: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of disorders, including Crohn’s disease, that cause inflammation of the intestines. Symptoms include:

• Severe or chronic abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Rectal bleeding
• Joint pain
• Fever

If you experience these symptoms, see your physician.

Irritable bowel syndrome: Although irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) does not cause permanent damage or lead to serious disease, it can be uncomfortable. Symptoms include:

• Cramping
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

If you experience these symptoms persistently, see your physician. IBS can often be managed with lifestyle changes.

Celiac disease: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that makes your body unable to process gluten, which is found in wheat, rye and barley. Symptoms include:

• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Irritability or depression
• Weight loss
• Itchy rashes and blisters

If you think you may have celiac disease, see your physician. A blood test can help determine whether you have this condition.