Eight Signs You Should Visit a Gastroenterologist – This Is Not “Normal”
Talking about digestive issues may be uncomfortable, but paying attention to certain symptoms is crucial for your health.
A group of doctors shared with the portal Eating Well eight symptoms related to digestive health that deserve attention.
Rectal Bleeding
Gastroenterologist Dr. Michael Schopis states that “although there are many causes of rectal bleeding, including harmless hemorrhoids, it’s important to have an exam to rule out more serious and potentially life-threatening conditions such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.”
Prolonged Diarrhea
“In the case of diarrhea lasting two weeks or more, you should visit a gastroenterologist to rule out possible causes such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, thyroid disorders, persistent infections, and so on,” adds Schopis, advising to monitor soft or watery stools lasting longer than a few days, reports Eating Well.
Severe Abdominal Pain
Another symptom may be abdominal pain, notes gastroenterologist and professor of medicine Dr. James Cox. “Abdominal pain can be deceptive because it sometimes feels like a simple stomachache. But it can be caused by organs outside the digestive system,” he explains.
While occasional stomach pain may be harmless, if it is intense or persistent, you should consult a doctor. “Prolonged or debilitating pain may be a sign of a serious condition,” the doctor emphasizes.
Bloating Issues
Gastroenterologist Dr. Kenneth Brown believes that “new evidence shows bloating may be an early sign of inflammation in the intestines which, if untreated, can lead to chronic health problems. If you constantly feel bloated, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, consult a doctor.”
Bloating may indicate an imbalance in gut flora and lead to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or metabolic disorders like diabetes. Other symptoms can include abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, unexplained weight loss, or vomiting.
Unintentional Weight Loss
People often experience weight changes, but if you’re losing weight without changes in diet or physical activity, it may be time to visit a gastroenterologist.
“Typically, this means sudden loss of more than four to five kilograms without any change in habits,” says Cox. This could indicate a condition affecting nutrient absorption or appetite, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, reports Eating Well.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Changes in the color, consistency, or shape of stools may signal it’s time for an exam. “People often notice changes if they pay attention: the color, texture, or frequency of bowel movements can change significantly,” says Cox. If you notice this, schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Frequent Heartburn
“Chronic heartburn can be confusing because people sometimes experience it as common digestive trouble. But if you feel a burning sensation in your chest, especially near the breastbone, it’s heartburn, not just indigestion,” says Cox. It could be a sign of a hiatal hernia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), so a thorough evaluation is important.
Difficulty Swallowing
Cox identifies difficulty swallowing as another symptom to pay attention to. “Swallowing difficulties may appear in different forms, such as food coming back up into the throat or a sensation of something being stuck in the throat or chest,” explains the doctor for Eating Well.
Persistent pain while swallowing is also a reason for an exam. Schopis notes that a doctor might recommend an endoscopy to examine the digestive system with a camera, reports Index.hr.
