What Your Body Is Telling You: 7 Signs You Should See a Gastroenterologist
A group of U.S. gastroenterologists is encouraging Americans to openly discuss their digestive issues with healthcare providers. Many people feel uncomfortable talking about bowel symptoms, often waiting until they worsen before seeking help.
Dr. Rajeev Jain, a Dallas gastroenterologist and AGA patient education advisor, emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about gastrointestinal symptoms and reducing the time between symptom onset and medical consultation.
When to See a Gastroenterologist
Gastroenterologists specialize in treating digestive system disorders such as unexplained bowel changes, GERD, hemorrhoids, IBD, IBS, pancreatitis, and ulcers. Here are signs you may need to consult a gastroenterologist:
- Ongoing diarrhea can indicate digestive disorders like IBS or IBD.
- Constipation, if persistent, may require medical management.
- Unexplained bloating could be a sign of various conditions and requires evaluation.
- Severe abdominal pain may signal ulcers, pancreatitis, or other issues.
- Rectal bleeding should be promptly addressed by a gastroenterologist.
- Regular colonoscopies are crucial for early detection of colorectal cancer, especially for high-risk individuals.
Before your gastroenterologist appointment, jot down your symptoms and questions to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
