GASTROENTEROLOGY

A gastroenterologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system.

Common GI conditions include acid reflux (GERD), peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, gastroenteritis (stomach flu), celiac disease, liver diseases (such as hepatitis and cirrhosis), pancreatitis, gallstones, and colorectal cancer.

You should consider seeing a gastroenterologist if you experience persistent or severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, persistent heartburn or acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or other concerning digestive symptoms.

Gastrointestinal disorders are diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests, including blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests (such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI), endoscopic procedures (such as colonoscopy or upper endoscopy), and other specialized tests as needed.

Treatment for GI disorders depends on the specific condition but may include medication (such as proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux, antibiotics for bacterial infections, or immunosuppressants for inflammatory bowel disease), dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, endoscopic procedures (such as polyp removal or dilation of strictures), surgery, and supportive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

While some GI disorders may have genetic or other predisposing factors, many can be prevented or their risk reduced through lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy diet high in fiber and low in processed foods and saturated fats, staying hydrated, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, practicing good hygiene to prevent infections, and getting recommended screenings for conditions like colorectal cancer.

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps or cancer. It's generally recommended to start screening for colorectal cancer at age 45-50, depending on individual risk factors, and repeat every 5-10 years depending on the findings and guidelines.

Dietary changes that can improve GI health include eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins; avoiding trigger foods that exacerbate symptoms (such as spicy or fatty foods for acid reflux); staying hydrated; and considering dietary modifications for specific conditions (such as a gluten-free diet for celiac disease or a low-FODMAP diet for IBS).

There are many resources available, including patient advocacy organizations, support groups, educational materials, online forums, and community programs. Your gastroenterologist or primary care physician can often provide information and referrals to appropriate resources.