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What does a gastroenterologist do? – A gastroenterologist is a specialist with expertise in the disorders and diseases that affect the digestive system — which includes the gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus) as well as the pancreas, liver, bile ducts and gallbladder.

Unexplained changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation and blood in the stool Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Heartburn Hemorrhoids Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Pancreatitis Ulcers

“Gastroenterologists are trained to perform a number of procedures used to help diagnose and treat these conditions, such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, biopsy and the various endoscopic techniques needed to visualize the digestive system, including endoscopic ultrasound,” explains Dr. Glassner.

Should I see a gastroenterologist for stomach pain?

Abdominal Pain & Bloating – Prolonged or persistent abdominal pain or bloating may be reasons to see a gastroenterologist, particularly if symptoms re-emerge after nearly every meal or are accompanied by nausea or painful bowel movements. Note: Read ” Pain Locator: Where Does It Hurt? ” to learn more about abdominal pain and what it could mean for your health.

When should you see a doctor for stomach pain?

Stomach pain; Pain – abdomen; Belly ache; Abdominal cramps; Bellyache; Stomachache Abdominal pain is pain that you feel anywhere between your chest and groin. This is often referred to as the stomach region or belly. You know that awful feeling: you’re nauseous; your stomach feels like it’s tied in a knot, and you don’t even want to move. What does your pain mean? Well, let’s talk today about abdominal pain. So, what causes abdominal pain? Almost everyone has pain in their belly at one time or another.

• Most of the time, a serious medical problem is not the cause, and how bad your pain is doesn’t always reflect the seriousness of the problem causing your pain.
• You may feel very bad pain if you are having gas or stomach cramps due to viral gastroenteritis, better known as a stomach virus.
• And some life-threatening conditions, such as colon cancer or a very early case of appendicitis, may cause only mild pain, or no pain at all.

The important thing to know about abdominal pain is when you need immediate medical care. Less serious causes of abdominal pain include constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, and a stomach virus. Other, more serious, causes include appendicitis, an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a bowel blockage, cancer, and gastroesophageal reflux.

1. Sometimes, you may have abdominal pain from a problem that isn’t in your belly, like a heart attack, menstrual cramps, or pneumonia.
2. So, what do you do about abdominal pain? Well, if you have mild abdominal pain, here are some helpful tips; Try sipping water or other clear fluids.
3. Avoid solid food for the first few hours.

If you’ve been vomiting, wait 6 hours and then eat small amounts of mild foods like rice, applesauce, or crackers. If your pain is high in your abdomen and occurs after meals, antacids may help, especially if you are feeling heartburn or indigestion. You should seek medical attention if you have abdominal pain and are being treated for cancer, you can’t pass any stool, you’re vomiting blood, or you have chest, neck, or shoulder pain. There are three body views (front, back, and side) that can help you to identify a specific body area. The labels show areas of the body which are identified either by anatomical or by common names. For example, the back of the knee is called the “popliteal fossa,” while the “flank” is an area on the side of the body. The process of digesting food is accomplished by many organs in the body. Food is pushed by the esophagus into the stomach. The stomach mixes the food and begins the breakdown of proteins. The stomach propels the food then into the small intestine. The small intestine further digests food and begins the absorption of nutrients. Since the abdominal area contains many different organs it is divided in smaller areas. One division method, uses one median sagittal plane and one transverse plane that passes through the umbilicus at right angles. This method divides the abdomen into four quadrants. Medical personnel can easily refer to these quadrants when describing pain or injury regarding a victim. The appendix is a small finger-shaped tube that branches off the first part of the large intestine. The appendix can become inflamed or infected causing pain in the lower right part of the abdomen. Blood from the aorta reaches the kidneys so it can be filtered and cleaned. Among other functions, the kidneys remove toxins, metabolic waste, and excess ions from the blood which leaves the body in the form of urine. You know that awful feeling: you’re nauseous; your stomach feels like it’s tied in a knot, and you don’t even want to move.

What does your pain mean? Well, let’s talk today about abdominal pain. So, what causes abdominal pain? Almost everyone has pain in their belly at one time or another. Most of the time, a serious medical problem is not the cause, and how bad your pain is doesn’t always reflect the seriousness of the problem causing your pain.

You may feel very bad pain if you are having gas or stomach cramps due to viral gastroenteritis, better known as a stomach virus. And some life-threatening conditions, such as colon cancer or a very early case of appendicitis, may cause only mild pain, or no pain at all.

The important thing to know about abdominal pain is when you need immediate medical care. Less serious causes of abdominal pain include constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, food allergies, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, and a stomach virus. Other, more serious, causes include appendicitis, an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a bowel blockage, cancer, and gastroesophageal reflux.

Sometimes, you may have abdominal pain from a problem that isn’t in your belly, like a heart attack, menstrual cramps, or pneumonia. So, what do you do about abdominal pain? Well, if you have mild abdominal pain, here are some helpful tips; Try sipping water or other clear fluids.

• Avoid solid food for the first few hours.
• If you’ve been vomiting, wait 6 hours and then eat small amounts of mild foods like rice, applesauce, or crackers.
• If your pain is high in your abdomen and occurs after meals, antacids may help, especially if you are feeling heartburn or indigestion.
• You should seek medical attention if you have abdominal pain and are being treated for cancer, you can’t pass any stool, you’re vomiting blood, or you have chest, neck, or shoulder pain.

Call your doctor if you have abdominal pain that lasts 1 week or longer, if your pain doesn’t improve in 24 to 48 hours, if bloating lasts more than 2 days, or if you have diarrhea for more than 5 days.

Can a doctor help with stomach pain?

Schedule a doctor’s visit – Make an appointment with your doctor if your abdominal pain worries you or lasts more than a few days. In the meantime, find ways to ease your pain. For instance, eat smaller meals if your pain is accompanied by indigestion.

What does a gastroenterologist do for stomach pain?

A gastroenterologist is a medical doctor with a specialized understanding of the digestive tract. Gastroenterologists know about the functions and diseases of the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. You may see a gastroenterologist if you’ve had ongoing belly troubles including pain, nausea, or bowel issues.

Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat digestive disorders including liver disease, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, and cancers. Typically, the gastroenterologist starts by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam to find out if they can see, hear, or feel anything unusual. The diagnostic process helps the gastroenterologist to determine what might be causing your symptoms.

Once they have a diagnosis, they determine your treatment. You may need medication, surgery, or a referral to another specialist. Gastroenterologists are internists, meaning that they specialize in what’s going on inside the body. Like other physicians, gastroenterologists start their professional education with medical school.

Three years of an internal medicine residencyBoard certification in internal medicine 36 months of fellowship training, including at least 18 months of clinical trainingSuccessful completion of the Gastroenterology Certification Exam

Board certification isn’t required for a gastroenterologist to practice, but it’s an important credential to look for. It proves that the doctor has expertise and training in the specialty. Some gastroenterologists may choose to complete an additional year of training in research or patient care.

That year can include subspecialty training in areas like pediatric gastroenterology (care for children’s digestion) or transplant hepatology (care of people who may need liver transplants). A gastroenterologist has the expertise to diagnose and treat conditions that affect digestion. There are many reasons why you might see a gastroenterologist: Problems with Bowel Movements Constipation and diarrhea affect almost everyone occasionally.

However, if your bowel problems don’t resolve after a couple of days, you may need to see a doctor. A gastroenterologist can determine whether you need treatment to resolve your diarrhea or constipation. Recurrent or Severe Abdominal Pain Bellyaches are common, but sometimes they signal the need for a doctor’s care.

If your abdominal pain lasts for more than a few days, comes back frequently, or is accompanied by nausea or bowel difficulties, a gastroenterologist might help you get to the root of the issue. Extremely severe pain, however, is a reason to visit the ER. There are many different causes of belly pain, from a viral infection to something more serious like appendicitis.

Frequent Heartburn Heartburn happens when stomach acid creeps up into your esophagus. It’s usually caused by a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that’s supposed to keep food in your stomach. Heartburn causes pain in the chest, difficulty swallowing, and a hot or acidic taste in the back of the throat.

People tend to manage occasional heartburn at home, but frequent symptoms can indicate a chronic condition like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or even cancer. A gastroenterologist can help you figure it out and get treatment. Check for Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer affects an estimated 148,000 people a year.

Regular screening by a gastroenterologist may identify the disease in its earlier stages when treatment is more effective. The American Cancer Society recommends that people get screened regularly starting at age 45. You might visit a gastroenterologist at a hospital, clinic, or private office.

1. Depending on your insurance, you might need a referral from your primary care physician.
2. The gastroenterologist will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam.
3. This usually involves you lying down on the table and the doctor pressing down on the outside of your belly.
4. They’ll feel for anything unusual, ask you if it hurts, and listen for abnormal sounds.

A gastroenterologist may send you for further tests ordiagnostic procedures like a colonoscopy or upper endoscopy, both of which use small cameras to let the doctor view your digestive tract. After making a diagnosis, the doctor will discuss your treatment options.

When are stomach problems serious?

Call your doctor if you have any of these digestive symptoms: Chronic or unusual abdominal pain. Persistent or severe heartburn. Difficulty swallowing.

How do I know what’s wrong with my stomach?

Frequent discomfort, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn could be signs that your gut is having a hard time processing food and eliminating waste. You feel tired more often than not. People with chronic fatigue may have imbalances in the gut.

What are the red flags for abdominal pain?

Vomiting – If the pain in your abdominal region is dull and persistent or sudden and severe and is also accompanied by vomiting, that’s another major red flag. The combination of abdominal pain and vomiting – especially if the vomiting is intense and lasts for a prolonged period of time – could be a sign of a major complication.

What stomach pain is serious?

Non-urgent advice: Speak to your GP if: –

a stomach ache gets much worse quickly stomach pain or bloating will not go away or keeps coming back you have stomach pain and problems with swallowing food you’re losing weight without trying to you suddenly pee more often or less often peeing is suddenly painful you bleed from your bottom or vagina, or have abnormal discharge from your vagina you have diarrhoea that does not go away after a few days

If your GP is closed, phone 111. Serious causes of sudden severe abdominal pain include:

appendicitis – the swelling of the appendix means your appendix will need to be removed a bleeding or perforated stomach ulcer acute cholecystitis – inflammation of the gallbladder, which may need to be removed kidney stones – small stones may be passed out in your urine, but larger stones may block the kidney tubes, and you’ll need to go to hospital to have them broken up diverticulitis – inflammation of the small pouches in the bowel that sometimes requires treatment with antibiotics in hospital ectopic pregnancy – when a fertilised egg develops outside the womb – ectopic pregnancy can be very serious if it isn’t treated

If your GP suspects you have one of these conditions, they may refer you to hospital immediately. Sudden and severe pain in your abdomen can also sometimes be caused by an infection of the stomach and bowel (gastroenteritis). It may also be caused by a pulled muscle in your abdomen or by an injury.

What do doctors give for stomach issues?

Gastrointestinal Medications : Johns Hopkins Lupus Center Antacids Aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide (Mylanta, Maalox)Calcium carbonate (Tums, Rolaids, Chooz)Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) Sodium bicarbonate (Alka-Seltzer)

Proton Pump Inhibitors Omeprazole (Prilosec)Lansoprazole (Prevacid)Rabeprazole (Aciphex)Esomeprazole (Nexium)Pantoprozole (Protonix) Histamine2 Blockers Cimetidine (Tagamet)Ranitidine hydrochloride (Zantac)Famotidine (Pepcid)Nizatidine (Axid) Promotility Agents Metoclopramide (Reglan)

Many people with lupus suffer from gastrointestinal problems, especially heartburn caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Peptic ulcers can also occur, often due to certain medications used in lupus treatment, including NSAIDs and steroids.

Occasional heartburn or acid indigestion can be treated with an over-the-counter antacid, such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Tums, Pepto-Bismol, or Chooz. Your doctor may also include an antacid in your treatment regimen in addition to another form of GI medication. Antacids contain basic salts (ions), which interact with and neutralize the acid in your stomach on contact.

Some antacids also contain simethicone, which helps relieve symptoms of gassy stomach. Antacids are effective when used to treat occasional symptoms, but you should try to avoid heartburn and acid indigestion altogether by eating smaller meals, remaining upright after eating, and cutting down on caffeine.

If heartburn and acid reflux persist (e.g., for more than two weeks), you should speak with your doctor, because your heartburn symptoms could be part of a larger problem. If you experience persistent heartburn, stomach acid, or ulcers, your doctor may prescribe a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, or Aciphex.

These medications are used to treat people with heartburn, stomach or intestinal ulcers, or excess stomach acid. Proton pump inhibitors reduce acid by shutting down the tiny pumps within cells in your stomach that secrete it. Evidence also suggests that PPIs may inhibit Helicobacter pylori, a type of bacteria that can cause peptic ulcers, gastritis, and other gastrointestinal problems.

• Most PPIs come as over-the-counter or prescription tablets, but pantoprazole (Protonix) may also be given intravenously at the hospital for people who are admitted with a bleeding ulcer.
• Taking a PPI reduces the chance that an ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding will occur again.
• Your doctor may also prescribe histamine2 blockers (H2 blockers) for symptoms of GERD, esophagitis, or peptic ulcers.

While both PPIs and H2 blockers suppress the production of acid in your stomach, they work in different ways and over different time periods. For example, H2 blockers work within an hour but last only about 12 hours, whereas PPIs need more time to take effect but last up to 24 hours.

• Also keep in mind that many PPIs and H2 blockers are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms; while these medications vary in potency, over-the-counter forms may be more cost-effective.
• Talk to your doctor about these various options.
• H2 blockers work to reduce the amount of acid that your stomach produces by blocking histamine2, a chemical in your body that signals the parietal cells of your stomach lining to make acid.

In doing this, H2 blockers reduce the amount of acid made by your stomach. Different H2 blockers vary in potency. Over-the-counter forms are less potent, while prescription doses can be more potent. In addition, your physician may prescribe a medication called a promotility agent if you experience GERD symptoms due to slow gastric emptying, or if H2 blockers and PPIs are not enough to control your GERD symptoms.

1. Promotility agents help speed digestion by stimulating the movement of GI contents through your esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
2. This helps to prevent acid from lingering in your stomach too long, thus reducing the amount of damage that acid can inflict on your GI tract and decreasing the occurrence of the acid reflux.

Metoclopramide is the main promotility agent currently on the market. It works by increasing muscle contractions in the upper digestive tract, which in turn speeds the rate with which stomach contents move into the intestines. While taking any GI medication, you should avoid drinking alcohol, since it can further upset your stomach and cause an increase in the side effects of certain medications.

What does a gastroenterologist do on first visit?

What to Expect at your Gastroenterologist Appointment If you’ve never seen a gastroenterologist, you may not know what to expect. Gastroenterologists specialize in the digestive system and are experts in the function and diseases of the liver, colon, bile ducts, gallbladder, pancreas, rectum, small intestine, stomach, and esophagus.

• Many common conditions such as heartburn, IBS, and celiac disease can affect patients’ everyday lives.
• Gastroenterologists can help manage and treat these conditions and significantly improve their patients’ quality of life and health.
• How should I prepare for my first appointment? At your first appointment, your gastroenterologist will speak with you about your medical history, symptoms, and any recent treatments you’ve had.

Depending on your age, they may recommend certain preventative treatments, such as a colonoscopy, which can help prevent colorectal cancer. Depending on the reason for your visit, they will ask you further questions and recommend tests or procedures if needed.

1. These tests may include but are not limited to an endoscopy, a colonoscopy, or a barium swallow.
2. Make a list of your symptoms and create a list of questions before your appointment so that you don’t forget anything.
3. It can help the doctor determine what treatment you may need.
4. When should you see a gastroenterologist? You should see a gastroenterologist for any recommended preventative screenings, if you’re experiencing new symptoms related to your digestive system, or if you need to manage any chronic digestive conditions.

You should also make an appointment to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible if you’re experiencing abnormal bowel movements, rectal bleeding, frequent heartburn, abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, difficulty swallowing, or esophageal pain. Some of the most common conditions treated by gastroenterologists include pancreatitis, ulcers, polyps, GERD, gallbladder disease, hemorrhoids, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease.

How can you improve your digestive health? Your doctor will monitor how you respond to treatment at your follow-up appointments. Follow their recommendations as it will help the doctor assess whether or not the treatment plan is effective. Additional testing may also be needed if symptoms do not improve.

Make regular notes of your symptoms if you have a chronic condition. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle or dietary changes. Make sure to schedule any preventative screenings, as they can help prevent serious health conditions such as certain cancers.

1. Make an appointment to see your doctor right away if you experience any changes in bowel habits, have unexplained weight loss, or if you are feeling chronically fatigued.
2. Schedule any follow-up appointments you need to go over results from tests or procedures.
3. If you are a new patient of Granite State Gastroenterology, visit our website to learn more about our practice.

We have forms and other information available on our site to save you time. You can also use Klara, our app that can help you get in contact with our staff and schedule appointments.

What does gastrointestinal pain feel like?

What causes abdominal pain? – Abdominal pain is frequently caused by a problem in the digestive tract (the gut). However, it can also be caused by other organs located in the abdomen, such as the kidneys. Large blood vessels, such as the aorta are also found in the abdomen and may give rise to pain.

trapped wind (gas) or indigestion diarrhoea and constipation gastroenteritis and food poisoning lactose intolerance GORD and hiatus hernia ulcers irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) inflammatory bowel disease diverticulitis and diverticular disease gallstones, gallbladder problems, liver problems appendicitis pancreatitis bowel obstruction

Causes of abdominal pain related to other organs include:

period pain kidney stones urinary tract infection pelvic inflammatory disease heart problems, such as angina or heart failure pneumonia

Some medicines can cause abdominal pain as a side effect, including:

anti-inflammatory medicines aspirin medicines to help manage the symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease

Some of the causes of abdominal pain are short-term (acute), whereas others are long-term or ongoing (chronic) conditions. Find more information about the underlying causes of abdominal pain here.

How is IBS diagnosed?

Tests for IBS – There’s no test for IBS, but you might need some tests to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. The GP may arrange:

a blood test to check for problems like coeliac disease tests on a sample of your poo to check for infections and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

You will not usually need further tests in hospital unless the GP is not sure what the problem is.

Why does my stomach hurt everyday?

Copied! Everyone gets a stomach ache — or abdominal pain — from time to time. Usually, stomach pains are harmless conditions caused by overeating, gas, or indigestion, Frequent or recurring sharp stomach pain often is due to stress and worry, even in children.

Can stomach problems last for weeks?

Abdominal pain has many potential causes. The most common causes — such as gas pains, indigestion or a pulled muscle — usually aren’t serious. Other conditions may require urgent medical attention. While the location and pattern of abdominal pain can provide important clues, its time course is particularly useful when determining its cause.

What does anxiety stomach pain feel like?

What does anxiety stomach pain feel like? – For some people, having a nervous stomach is common. With others, it’s a rare or one-off experience. While it’s not a diagnosable condition, it’s acknowledged by doctors. Its occurrence can be due to your mental health, emotional state, or gut health. In most cases, a nervous stomach does not signify anything serious. When you have it, you may feel:

Cramping, churning, tightness, or knots in the stomach “Butterflies” in the stomach feeling Shivering, shaking, or twitching of muscles

The effects of gut stress can manifest in unique ways and all over the body. Other symptoms include:

Constipation or diarrhea Upset stomach after eating Acid reflux Heartburn Bloating Acid reflux Depression Anxiousness or racing thoughts Excessive sleeping or inability to sleep Restlessness Mood swings

How do doctors check your stomach?

A gastroscopy (examination of the stomach) can help confirm or rule out the presence of medical conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcers. In this procedure, an instrument called a gastroscope is used to look at the inside of the food pipe, the stomach, and part of the duodenum (the first part of the intestine). Gastroscopy may be done if you have the following:

Chronic or recurring heartburn, nausea or vomiting Nausea over a longer period of time Stomach pain Trouble swallowing Black stool or blood in your stool Weight loss for no apparent reason Suspected peptic ulcer Suspected cancer of the esophagus or stomach A check-up after stomach surgery

A gastroscope is a flexible tube that has a small light and a video camera attached to the end of it. The images from the video camera are sent to a screen. The tube can be used to take tissue samples by inserting instruments such as small pincers. It can also be used to suck out air and fluids.

What does a gastroenterologist do on first visit?

What to Expect at your Gastroenterologist Appointment If you’ve never seen a gastroenterologist, you may not know what to expect. Gastroenterologists specialize in the digestive system and are experts in the function and diseases of the liver, colon, bile ducts, gallbladder, pancreas, rectum, small intestine, stomach, and esophagus.

Many common conditions such as heartburn, IBS, and celiac disease can affect patients’ everyday lives. Gastroenterologists can help manage and treat these conditions and significantly improve their patients’ quality of life and health. How should I prepare for my first appointment? At your first appointment, your gastroenterologist will speak with you about your medical history, symptoms, and any recent treatments you’ve had.

Depending on your age, they may recommend certain preventative treatments, such as a colonoscopy, which can help prevent colorectal cancer. Depending on the reason for your visit, they will ask you further questions and recommend tests or procedures if needed.

• These tests may include but are not limited to an endoscopy, a colonoscopy, or a barium swallow.
• Make a list of your symptoms and create a list of questions before your appointment so that you don’t forget anything.
• It can help the doctor determine what treatment you may need.
• When should you see a gastroenterologist? You should see a gastroenterologist for any recommended preventative screenings, if you’re experiencing new symptoms related to your digestive system, or if you need to manage any chronic digestive conditions.

You should also make an appointment to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible if you’re experiencing abnormal bowel movements, rectal bleeding, frequent heartburn, abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, difficulty swallowing, or esophageal pain. Some of the most common conditions treated by gastroenterologists include pancreatitis, ulcers, polyps, GERD, gallbladder disease, hemorrhoids, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease.

How can you improve your digestive health? Your doctor will monitor how you respond to treatment at your follow-up appointments. Follow their recommendations as it will help the doctor assess whether or not the treatment plan is effective. Additional testing may also be needed if symptoms do not improve.

Make regular notes of your symptoms if you have a chronic condition. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle or dietary changes. Make sure to schedule any preventative screenings, as they can help prevent serious health conditions such as certain cancers.

1. Make an appointment to see your doctor right away if you experience any changes in bowel habits, have unexplained weight loss, or if you are feeling chronically fatigued.
2. Schedule any follow-up appointments you need to go over results from tests or procedures.
3. If you are a new patient of Granite State Gastroenterology, visit our website to learn more about our practice.

We have forms and other information available on our site to save you time. You can also use Klara, our app that can help you get in contact with our staff and schedule appointments.

When should you refer a patient to a gastroenterologist?

You’ve Been Diagnosed with a Digestive Condition – If your primary care doctor has diagnosed a complex digestive disorder, such as Crohn’s disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Pancreatitis, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux), or Celiac disease, it’s important to consult with a gastroenterologist.