5 signs to visit a gastroenterologist

Diseases and conditions that gastroenterologists diagnose and treat are:

• Carcinomas
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Celiac disease
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Gallbladder disease
• GERD
• Hemorrhoids
• Hepatitis C
• Polyps
• Ulcers
• Pancreatitis

Below we present 5 signs that you need to visit a gastroenterologist:

1. Frequent constipation or diarrhea

You suffer from constipation if you have a bowel movement fewer than three times a week. This problem is a consequence of blockage, neurological problems, hormonal disorders, or an improper diet. Frequent diarrhea lasting longer than a few days may be associated with a virus, with Crohn’s disease, or with irritable bowel syndrome. A gastroenterologist will help you in determining the cause of your problem.

2. Traces of blood in the stool

The presence of blood in the stool is a sign that bleeding is occurring somewhere in your digestive tract. The causes can vary, but it is most important to seek the help of a gastroenterologist immediately.

3. Heartburn

Each of us sometimes suffers from heartburn, which is not concerning, but if you have frequent heartburn, it may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and possibly even esophageal cancer. It is certainly most important to consult a doctor.

4. Regular colorectal cancer screening (45+)

All adults over the age of 45 should go for preventive examinations for cancer that can develop in the digestive tract. Colon cancer can arise from precancerous polyps discovered during a colonoscopy.

If there is colon cancer in your immediate family medical history, we advise having your first colonoscopy ten years earlier.

5. Bloating

Occasional bloating after a meal is not a reason to visit a gastroenterologist, but if you suffer from bloating and abdominal pain after almost every meal or it is accompanied by nausea, you should inform your doctor, who will refer you to a gastroenterologist for further tests.

How often should we repeat a colonoscopy?

The malignant transformation from a polyp into carcinoma takes several years, so removing benign polyps can prevent the development of colon cancer. It is precisely for this reason that a colonoscopy does not need to be repeated often.

If the colonoscopy finding is normal, we repeat it in five to ten years. If a polyp removal procedure is needed, then a follow-up is required in one year.

You can schedule a gastroenterologist examination via the contact form or by calling 01 2321 970 .