People often ignore digestive issues in the name of acidity or gas. However, if you experience discomfort or pain in your digestive tract regularly, it is best not to wait or overlook them until it worsens or becomes life-threatening. Instead, consult a gastroenterologist. We understand the term might be new to you, and since we care for your health, this blog will shed light on the signs you need to visit our gastroenterologist in Naranpura.
Let’s start by understanding the role of a gastroenterologist.
Who is a Gastroenterologist?
The term gastroenterologist is used for a medical professional specializing in conditions concerning the human digestive system. They analyze and treat gastrointestinal diseases related to the stomach, intestines, mouth, esophagus, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver.
When to Visit a Gastroenterologist?
While there are several reasons to see a gastroenterologist, some of the most common ones that might need immediate attention are:
Constipation
It is one of the most common digestive conditions that people suffer from. Constipation is generally a result of not drinking enough water, no to minimum physical activity, overuse of laxatives, consuming unhealthy amounts of junk food and dairy products, and taking antidepressants. People have no or challenging bowel movements when constipated, and chronic constipation indicates something is going wrong with the body.
If your body doesn’t release stool for more than three days, it will get drier and harder, making it more difficult for the bowel to empty. Chronic constipation can indicate or lead to underlying conditions like a narrow colon, intestinal blockage, hormonal problems, rectal or colon cancer, tears in the skin around the anus, and neurological disorders.
Diarrhea
Like constipation, diarrhea is a common digestive issue, which refers to watery bowel movements. It can be a result of consuming excessive campaigns, a change in the quality of drinking water, or eating something that doesn’t suit your stomach. If this condition lasts more than a month, it can become life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you are dehydrated, have severe abdominal or rectal pain, a fever of 102 degrees or more, black or tarry stools, and stools containing blood or pus.
Regular Heartburn
Heartburn refers to the burning sensation or pain in the center of the chest. It generally happens when acids in the stomach back up in the esophagus and can also be caused by spicy foods, fried foods, alcohol, carbonated drinks, and cigarettes. Make sure to visit a gastroenterologist if you have heartburn and develop symptoms indicating a serious condition like dizziness, pain or discomfort swallowing, shortness of breath, and bloody or tarry bowel movements.
Abdominal Bloating
If your clothes feel tight suddenly, bloating can be the cause. A sudden tightness in the girth indicates bloating by retaining gas. However, unexplained, painful, and sudden bloating that accompanies nausea, painful bowel movements, or bloody stools isn’t normal. It can suggest celiac disease, IBS, gallstones, GERD, or Crohn’s disease. Thus, it is best to visit a gastroenterologist to get your digestive problem professionally evaluated.
Book Your Gastroenterology Appointment
In case you experience any of the above-mentioned signs, visit our multispeciality hospital in Naranpura to begin with the appropriate treatment post-diagnosis. Our gastroenterologist will inquire about your medical history and digestive symptoms, discuss necessary screenings, procedures, or tests, and recommend medications or lifestyle changes to relieve symptoms.
