7 Common Painful Signs You Need to See a Gastroenterologist Now

It becomes neccesary to see a  Gastroenterologist If you have a problem with you digestive system. These doctors are very important in the health care setting because they are often the first line of defense for those who have a chronic ailment or condition. It is their job to determine what the patient needs to do to prevent further complications from developing. They can also help to develop a personalized treatment plan for patients with chronic conditions.

 

Gastroenterology focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, esophagus, stomach, small intestine and colon.

It addresses such conditions as acid reflux, ulcers, IBS, hepatitis C, polyps or growth in the large intestine, jaundice or yellowing of the skin, hemorrhoids, bloody stool, pancreatitis and colon cancer.

Euracare’s internationally-trained & -practiced gastroenterologist Dr Yaw Asante Awuku provides a comprehensive array of diagnostic & treatment procedures, notably:

 

What Is a Gastroenterologist?

 

Gastroenterology specialists specialize in the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of a variety of conditions and symptoms that affect the digestive system. They are an essential part of all medical procedures and services and can be located in most major medical offices.

 

A gastroenterologist uses advanced medical imaging and computer-assisted tomography (CT) technology to diagnose and treat disorders in the digestive system. He or she will use both conventional and complementary medicine in their treatment and management of disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

 

Some conditions managed by gastroenterologists include digestive disorders (including IBS), diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, abdominal surgery, intestinal obstructions, kidney stones, diverticulitis, colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and gastric ulcers. If you’re looking for a qualified professional to discuss your concerns, there are a few things to consider.

 

A gastroenterologist works with physicians and practitioners to examine various conditions. They must be board-certified or specialize in one or more specialities. They can also work as a consultant to other medical professionals.They must also be members of several professional organizations. Because their job is to help you heal, they must be skilled in treating a wide range of illnesses, and in particular diseases affecting the digestive system.

 

The best gastroenterologist will have experience working with patients who are diagnosed with digestive disorders. Some specialize in a specific condition. These specialists usually have extensive training in their areas of speciality and will often work with other physicians in a variety of settings. In some cases, they can work at their own offices.

 

There are many types of conditions managed by gastroenterologists. They will work closely with physicians to examine the causes and determine what can be done to prevent, reduce, or treat the symptoms. They may provide nutrition counselling and nutritional therapy to help patients who are experiencing discomfort or problems with their digestive systems. They may also provide medications and nutritional supplements for people with digestive disorders and can also refer them to specialists in this area. Other conditions are treated by a gastroenterologist such as diverticulitis.

 

When you choose a gastroenterologist, you need to ask about the type of conditions that he or she will manage. This will help you get a good idea of the services that will be offered to you. If you have an acute digestive disorder, the doctor may suggest surgery and/or recommend nutritional supplements. and/or a combination of both. If you have a chronic condition or disorder, the doctor may suggest different treatment methods or even prescribe a drug-free approach. If you have a disease in addition to the digestive disorders, the doctor may provide symptom management and/or symptom control measures.

 

Because the stomach is a very complex organ, the treatments used may focus on a patient’s symptoms and the functioning of the stomach as a whole. Gastroenterologists work with the patient to examine the entire digestive system and not just the stomach and its components. They are often involved in testing and evaluating the patient’s diet and eating habits.

 

A gastroenterologist can work with other doctors when you are dealing with digestive disorders. Some of these include the physician’s colleagues and family to help with the management of your condition. You may also be referred to a specialist in this area for additional care. Your primary physician may suggest that you see a gastroenterologist to help with the diagnosis of your symptoms. If you suspect that you have digestive difficulties, you should be treated as soon as possible.

 

What does a Gastroenterologist Do?

 

Gastroenterologists

 

A gastroenterologist can become very helpful in the recovery of patients suffering from digestive disorders. He or she will be able to make a proper diagnosis and provide the necessary medications and therapy, along with providing the necessary advice about dietary and lifestyle changes, to help you regain your health.

 

A gastroenterologist will discuss diet with a patient and recommend changes to his or her diet in order to improve his or her symptoms and help the patient’s weight loss program. A good dietitian can also help the patient to monitor progress in his or her dietary program, especially when new foods are introduced to the diet. The dietitian may also be able to suggest new medications or alternative therapies if the diet does not work.

 

There are several common types of medicines used in the treatment of GI problems. Among these medicines are antacids, a form of calcium salt, anti-emetics and antibiotics, antispasmodics and antiperspirants, beta blockers, antihistamines and glucosamine nasal sprays. These medicines are used to treat inflammation and aid in the detoxification process. They also help the patient’s intestines to digest food properly and assist with the elimination of waste products.

 

If a patient needs surgery, the doctor’s office will provide a variety of services. For example, if the patient has a bowel obstruction, he or she will make an incision into the abdominal cavity to remove a large blockage. Other treatments include perforated colon (to remove a damaged or infected bowel), intestinal surgery for bleeding ulcers.

 

Patients undergoing surgery often require special care in the hospital, such as having their blood monitored regularly. They may also need to undergo a battery of tests to monitor their progress during the surgery. If there is a problem, the patient may need hospitalization for up to four days to stabilize and recover from anaesthesia.

 

Conditions Managed by Gastroenterologists

 

The most common conditions, diseases, and disorders diagnosed and treated by gastroenterologists include the following:

  • Cancer (Gastrointestinal, Liver, Pancreatic, Colorectal)
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Celiac Disease
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  • Gallbladder Disease
  • GERD (Heartburn, Acid Reflux)
  • Hemorrhoids (Swollen Veins in the Lowest Part of the Rectum and Anus)
  • Polyps (Abnormal Tissue Growths)
  • Ulcers (Painful Sores in the Stomach Lining)
  • Pancreatitis

There are some frequently occurring signs and symptoms that may warrant a visit to your gastroenterologist, who can then diagnose and treat any one of the myriad disorders related to your symptoms. Here are 5 signs you should consider scheduling a consultation with your gastroenterologist:

 

Abnormal Bowel Movements

  • Constipation: If you pass fewer than three bowel movements per week, your constipation may be due to blockage, neurological issues, muscular or hormonal malfunction, diet or other factors. A gastroenterologist may help you determine which the cause is.
  • Diarrhea: If runny stool persists for more than a few days, it could be due to a virus, parasite/bacteria, lactose intolerance, a reaction to medication(s), or it could be indicative of other digestive disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, just to name a few.

Rectal Bleeding

Causes of blood in the stool can vary in severity, but generally means there is bleeding somewhere in your digestive tract. This may be caused by an anal fissure (a small cut or tear in the tissue lining the anus), hemorrhoids, or it could be something requiring medical attention, such as cancer.

Frequent Heartburn

Occasional heartburn is likely nothing to be concerned with, but frequent heartburn may indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Barrett’s Esophagus, and possibly, even esophageal cancer. If acid reflux occurs often, you may be diagnosed with GERD and begin receiving medication to alleviate your discomfort, and have testing to confirm the diagnosis.

 

You’re of Age to be Regularly Screened for Colorectal Cancer (50+ Years)

A screening test is a preventative measure, and should be administered before symptoms present. Colorectal cancer often begins as precancerous polyps that can be detected and removed during a colonoscopy. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggests adults aged 50 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. Some patients need screening colonoscopies earlier. For example, African Americans should start the screening process at age 45.

 

Abdominal Pain and Bloating

Occasional, mild abdominal pain and bloating may not be cause enough to see a specialist. However, if abdominal pain or bloating occurs after nearly every meal you eat, or is accompanied by nausea, or painful bowel movements,  be sure to inform your physician of those aspects of your discomfort, as they may then decide to refer you to a gastroenterologist for further tests.

Note: Read this blog—”Pain Locator: Where Does it Hurt?“—to learn more about abdominal pain and what it could mean for your health.

 

Esophageal Pain or Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Certain ailments could cause you to experience difficulty swallowing, or inability to swallow. If you experience frequent esophageal pain or difficulty swallowing, or if difficulty swallowing intensifies over time, a gastroenterologist may conduct a procedure known as an upper endoscopy to determine the cause of your discomfort and begin administering treatment. Get More information from the Gastroenterology Associates

 

 

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