Gastroenterologists are trained to treat disorders and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Many intestinal disorders can be managed with early diagnosis and treatment.
Runstudio / Getty Images
What Is a Gastroenterologist?
Runstudio / Getty Images
A gastroenterologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats disorders and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
New Digestive Symptoms
If you experience unusual or new digestive symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
They will conduct a physical exam, request your medical history, and ask about any medications you take.
Screening frequency depends on the results.
Conditions Gastroenterologists Manage
There is a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions a gastroenterologist diagnoses and treats.
It is a chalky powder added to water that appears white on X-ray film.
Your gastroenterologist may order one or several of these tests, depending on your symptoms.
There are additional specialized tests for diagnosing pancreatic, liver, and gallbladder disorders.
Summary
Gastrointestinal symptoms are common but it can be difficult to diagnose their cause.
Seeing a specialist is the best option when you experience chronic digestive disorders.
Gastroenterologists have the specialized training needed to treat complicated gastrointestinal conditions and diseases.
It’s important to consult a gastroenterologist when you experience unusual or severe symptoms.
They may request one or more tests to provide an accurate diagnosis.
Many digestive disorders can be best managed when diagnosed and treated early.
Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment plan for you.
Medline Plus.Weight loss - unintentional.
American Cancer Society.American Cancer Society guideline for colorectal cancer screening.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Digestive diagnostic procedures.
Goodman, RP and Chung DC.Clinical genetic testing in gastroenterology.Clin Transl Gastroenterol.
2016;7(4):e167.
doi:10.1038/ctg.2016.23
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Capsule endoscopy.
