If you are experiencing abnormal bowel movements, frequent heartburn, abdominal pain, or bloating, then you should consult a gastroenterologist. Many people believe that a gastroenterologist is a stomach doctor, but these specialists may treat many different health conditions as well.
Let’s discuss in detail on when you should visit a gastroenterologist. Below are a few points:
Constipation
How do you know if you have constipation? Doctors say that if you have less than three bowel movements in a week, then it could be constipation. When your digestive system does not work correctly, it causes constipation. Mostly, older adults are affected by it. But young ones could also get affected. Common causes include dehydration, lack of dietary fibre, physical inactivity, or medication side effects.
Heartburn
It is time to see a gastroenterologist doctor if you experience heartburn for two or more times a week. Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the leading causes behind heartburn. The situation could be worse when you lie down, and it could interfere in your sleep as well.
When You Have Gallstones
There could be many reasons behind the stomach pain. Gallstones or hardened deposits of digestive fluid could be one of the reasons. If you experience sudden pain which is lasting for hours, then it is an indication of gallstones. Other symptoms of gallstones could be fever, shivering, severe nausea and vomiting, or jaundice.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is a procedure in which inside of the large intestine examined. It is helpful to evaluate gastrointestinal symptoms in the body. If you’re suffering from it, you must visit a gastroenterologist. Your general physician himself will ask you to visit one. Many people above the age of 50 need colonoscopy and their physician knows when they need it.
Diarrhoea
If you are having loose or watery stools for more than two days, then you should visit a gastroenterologist. Loose or watery stools are indications that something is not right with your digestive system. Regular occurrences of diarrhoea are even more difficult situation, like Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Ulcer
Burn in the stomach could be caused by an ulcer which is also known as peptic ulcer. An ulcer is well recognized as an open sore in your stomach and intestine. After eating food, the acid which breaks down to digest food causes pain in the stomach. The upper abdominal pain is a common symptom of having an ulcer.
Bloating
Bloating is a buildup of gas in the stomach and intestines. It happens after you eat food. If you feel bloated after eating food consistently, then it is time to see a gastroenterologist doctor. Other possible causes include irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, and haemorrhoids.
Above are seven of many signs which or show that you should see a gastroenterologist doctor now. If you experience any of the above discussed symptoms, then you must visit the best hospital for gastroenterology.
Heritage Hospitals 