When You Need Help
You might contact a gastroenterologist in cases of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or change in bowel habits when the diagnosis is unclear or where specialized diagnostic procedures are necessary. In fact, a gastroenterologist treats a broad range of conditions. Symptoms frequently evaluated by a gastroenterologist include:
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Chronic abdominal pain
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Persistent nausea and vomiting
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Persistent diarrhea
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Persistent constipation
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Unexplained rectal bleeding
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Persistent heartburn
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Painful or difficult swallowing
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Unexplained weight loss
Diseases typically treated by a gastroenterologist include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach or duodenal ulcers, Crohn’s disease, pancreatitis, celiac sprue, intestinal polyps and cancers, irritable bowel syndrome, bile duct stones and tumors, and anemia from chronic intestinal bleeding.
If your heartburn becomes more frequent than usual and is not relieved by over-the-counter medications, you need to see a physician. Potential problems include ulcers, gallbladder disease, or serious problems with your esophagus. Vomiting that goes on for more than twenty-four hours or is accompanied by persistent pain in the upper abdomen needs medical attention. It can signify anything from appendicitis or food poisoning to gallbladder disease or intestinal obstruction.
Any major changes in your bowel habits warrant at least a call to your medical care provider. If you can’t defecate, if you have persistent constipation, loss of bowel control, or bloody, tarry, or pale stools, then call your doctor. The possibilities range from food poisoning, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, or rarely, cancer.
Most of the time, you can call for an appointment and get it within a few weeks. If you are concerned about the wait, ask to be put on the cancellation list so they can call you at the last minute when someone cancels their appointment. However, if you experience GI symptoms accompanied by a sudden high fever, weight loss, blood in your stools, or vomiting, or pain severe enough that it consistently keeps you awake or prevents you from functioning, then you should simply go to your local emergency room.
