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5 Signs You Need to Visit Your Gastroenterologist ASAP

The gastrointestinal process is important to your overall health and well-being. Obesity, which is a risk factor for various illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure, might accompany this. If you've been experiencing discomfort or other symptoms, it's possible that your gut is trying to tell you something. Have you tried over-the-counter medications but had no long-term relief? Perhaps it's time to consult a gastroenterologist. Your issues may be best managed by a gastroenterologist who specialises in these types of diseases. Check out this list of five symptoms that indicate you should consult a gastroenterologist right away.

What Is the Role of a Gastrointestinal (GI) Surgeon?

A gastroenterologist is a physician who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and illnesses. They are able to undertake specialised testing and operations for less prevalent gastrointestinal diseases.

Five Reasons to Consult a Gastroenterologist

Sometimes it's more than simply a stomach pain. Here are some warning signals to look out for.

Constipation and Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be characterised by an increased need to defecate, going more frequently than usual, or producing a stool that is more liquid than usual. Constipation, on the other hand, occurs when you are unable to defecate. You might just go once or twice a week. You may notice firm stools that require straining to evacuate when you go.

Possible Causes

Diarrhea can be caused by an illness, such as a virus or E. coli. It might just be the result of a heavy, oily meal that was difficult to digest, such as what happens after eating too much Taco Bell.

Other people may have specific food sensitivities or enzyme deficits that cause them to suffer diarrhoea and bloating if you consume a certain meal. It may be difficult to recognise, therefore a gastroenterologist may be able to assist you in determining what is wrong.

However, if your diarrhoea lasts longer than a few days, you should certainly seek expert care. Also, if there is any blood, mucus, or discoloration in the stool, sees a doctor as soon as possible.

Weight Loss or Gain

A sudden shift in weight should always be cause for worry. It can be induced by simple adjustments in food and exercise, but it might also be caused by something else.

Although there will always be some natural fluctuation, an inadvertent shift of more than 5% over six to twelve months may be cause for worry. So, if you weighed 150 pounds six months ago but now weigh 140 pounds or fewer, you should consult a physician.

Vomiting and nausea

Some of the most common reasons for seeing a digestive system doctor include nausea and vomiting. Because there are several reasons, the physician will need to do a thorough examination to rule out the most serious, followed by the most common.

This must be addressed as soon as possible. Uncontrolled fluid and electrolyte loss can result in dehydration, weakness, seizures, and even death. A trip to see a stomach expert is definitely in order.

Possible Causes

Many instances are caused by ingesting food that turned sour. Before eating, be certain that the food has been properly handled and cleaned. Failure to do so can result in food poisoning, gastroenteritis, and other illnesses.

Other serious medical illnesses, infections, chemical intoxications, or prescription side effects can also cause nausea. Nausea is a common symptom of liver disease. Cancer and HIV are two uncommon yet significant causes.

Jaundice

Jaundice, also known as icterus, is a disorder in which the skin and eyes develop a yellowish tinge as a result of an excess of the chemical bilirubin. Depending on the amount of bilirubin in the body, the person may merely have a barely visible hue in the eyes. People suffering from severe instances may have skin that has a yellow tinge that even an unskilled observer may detect while passing.Pancreatic cancer has been linked to asymptomatic jaundice.

What exactly is bilirubin?

Bilirubin is produced as a byproduct of the metabolism of red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes. They are transferred to the liver to be converted into bilirubin in many processes as they grow older (approximately 120 days after being born from bone marrow).

They are then eliminated partly in the urine and faeces. The body can repurpose the rest.

Jaundice Causes

This syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors. The majority, on the other hand, fall into one of the following groups. More bilirubin will be created when hemolysis, or the breakdown of red blood cells, increases. This is frequently accompanied by anaemia.Other reasons include enzyme deficits, liver problems, and gallbladder disorders. Some reasons are treatable with medicine, while others may necessitate surgery.

Cancer Warning Signs

There are various warning indications that you should never overlook. Weight loss and painless jaundice are symptoms of a concealed cancer. In addition, trouble swallowing might be an indication of esophageal cancer caused by persistent reflux.

Colon malignancies were typically seen in elderly males. However, there has been a recent increase in young women presenting with this illness, so don't be afraid to consult a GI specialist. Gastroenterologists have expertise dealing with GI cancer as well as uncommon, inherited illnesses such as Lynch Syndrome. Depending on the situation, they may do a colonoscopy or collect biopsies. The most recent guidelines recommend starting colon cancer screening with a colonoscopy at the age of 45, rather than waiting until the age of 50.

Do You Need to See a Gastroenterologist?

If you've had diarrhoea, constipation, or other GI issues, you should consult a gastroenterologist. They may also assist you with weight reduction options if you need to shed some pounds.

Consider visiting a gastroenterologist immediately away. The above list is not complete. Check out our patient-focused blog for up-to-date information about gastrointestinal difficulties. 5 Signs You Need to See a Gastroenterologist Right Away