Is Your Gut Trying to Tell You Something? 7 Signs You Need a Gastroenterologist
A group of leading U.S. gastroenterologists is urging Americans to openly discuss their bowel symptoms with their doctors. Many people are reluctant to talk about digestive issues, with one in three saying they would only bring it up if their doctor did first, according to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA).
Patients often delay seeking help until symptoms worsen, possibly due to discomfort in discussing bowel problems. The AGA emphasized the importance of normalizing conversations around gastrointestinal symptoms to enable quicker patient-provider discussions.
When to See a Gastroenterologist
Gastroenterologists specialize in treating disorders affecting the digestive system. Conditions they address include unexplained changes in bowel habits, GERD, hemorrhoids, IBD, IBS, pancreatitis, ulcers, and more.
- Ongoing diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea may indicate digestive disorders like IBS, IBD, or SIBO, requiring medical attention.
- Constipation: Less than three bowel movements a week or difficulty passing stool may signal constipation that needs professional evaluation.
- Feeling unusually bloated: Bloating can result from various causes, including IBS, food sensitivities, or other conditions a gastroenterologist can help diagnose and treat.
- Sudden or severe abdominal pain: Persistent abdominal pain could indicate ulcers, gallstones, pancreatitis, or liver issues, requiring medical assessment.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in stool: These symptoms may signify hemorrhoids or more serious conditions like colorectal cancer, necessitating prompt evaluation by a gastroenterologist.
- Due for a colonoscopy: Individuals over 45 or with a family history of colon cancer should schedule a colonoscopy for early detection and potential life-saving treatment.
Before your gastroenterology appointment, jot down your symptoms and questions to help your doctor understand your condition better and determine the most suitable treatment plan.
