Is it time to call a gastroenterologist?
Our Stockbridge and Locust Grove, GA, gastroenterologists provide a wide range of treatments and services to cater to people dealing with various ailments, diseases and disorders that impact the digestive tract. A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist you should turn to when digestive issues impact your health. Of course, there are several reasons to turn to the team at Southern Gastroenterology Specialists for care. Some of the reasons to see a gastroenterologist include,
You Have Frequent Heartburn
While Taco Tuesday may have been delicious, you might be paying for it now. Everyone will experience heartburn at some point, but if your heartburn is happening two or more times a week then this could be a warning sign of a more serious underlying problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Since untreated GERD can lead to long-term complications including trouble swallowing and even throat cancer, it’s important to turn to our Stockbridge and Locust Grove, GA, gastroenterologists if you are experiencing persistent heartburn or having to take heartburn medications two or more times a week.
You Need a Routine Colonoscopy
Whether you have risk factors for colorectal cancer or not, every man and woman over the age of 50 must start coming into our practice every 10 years for routine colonoscopies. Those with an increased risk for colorectal cancer may want to start coming in for routine colonoscopies by the age of 45 years old. To discuss your risk factors with our team and to find out when to start getting routine colonoscopies, call our office today to learn more.
You’re Dealing with Frequent Bowel Issues
Whether you are dealing with constipation, diarrhea or a combination of the two, it’s important that you find out what could be causing your bowel changes. While constipation can occur from a lack of exercise or not drinking enough water, and diarrhea can occur as a result of contaminated food or consuming too much caffeine, if you are dealing with this problem frequently it’s important that you find out what’s going on. Diarrhea that lasts more than four weeks could be a sign of a more serious problem such as irritable bowel disease and constipation that occurs for several weeks or longer is considered chronic.
You’re Experiencing Rectal Bleeding
There are many conditions and issues, ranging from minor to more serious, that can cause rectal bleeding. This could be a sign of hemorrhoids, ulcers, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease. Black stools are also a sign of a bleed within the digestive tract. Any blood in the stool is considered abnormal, so you should turn to our Stockbridge and Locust Grove, GA, gastroenterologists as soon as possible.
Is it time to schedule an appointment with our gastroenterologists? We provide digestive health care to the Jackson, Locust Grove, Riverdale and Stockbridge, GA, areas. To schedule an appointment, simply call Southern Gastroenterology Specialists at (770) 692-0100.