5 Signs You Need To See A Gastroenterologist

A gastroenterologist is a type of doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the esophagus, small intestine, stomach, pancrea, colon, gallbladder, liver and bile ducts. It is important to know when it is time for you to make an appointment with this specialist.

Here are a few signs you need to see a gastroenterologist in the near future.

Bloody Stool

If you notice blood in your stool, you should schedule an appointment with an gastroenterologist soon. While it may turn out to be nothing, it could also be a sign of a bigger problem, such as cancer or ulcerative colitis. A gastroenterologist will run some tests to determine the cause of your bloody stool and then recommend the appropriate treatment.

Persistent Stomach Pain

Almost everyone gets a stomach ache from time to time and it usually is not a cause for concern. However, if you experience stomach pain multiple times a week, it could indicate a larger issue. If your pain gets sharper or more frequent, you should get evaluated by a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

Constipation

It is not abnormal to get constipated on occasion, especially when you have changes in your routine. However, if you frequently pass fewer than three bowel movements every week, you may be dealing with a bigger issue. Your constipation could be due to anything from a blockage to a hormonal problem. A gastroenterologist will get to the bottom of the issue and suggest the appropriate treatment.

Heartburn

Heartburn causes a burning sensation in your chest or throat and is a fairly common condition. In many cases, the condition goes away on its own. However, if you have heartburn more than a couple of times a week, it could be due to a bigger issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease. A gastroenterologist can pinpoint the issue and suggest the best possible treatment for it.

Sudden Weight Loss

While losing weight without effort does not sound that bad, it can actually be a sign of a serious health problem, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease. If you have recently lost a good amount of weight without trying, you should schedule an appointment with your gastroenterologist right away.

If you have been exhibiting any of these signs, you should not wait to see a gastroenterologist. Your health is very important, and waiting too long to see a doctor could put it in serious jeopardy.

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