You may not always have cause to visit a gastroenterologist, so it can be difficult to know what to ask once you do. Just a few of the most common questions are highlighted below, to ask many more you can contact your local gastroenterologist in Stockbridge, Locust Grove, Riverdale, and Jackson, GA, of Southern Gastroenterology Specialists, to learn much more.
What Does a Gastroenterologist Treat?
Gastroenterology refers to the medical field that typically treats problems that are related to the stomach and the intestines. That is, conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, which is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcers, and colon cancer, among others.
When Is It More Than Just a Belly Ache?
If you can trace back your stomach pain to a specific food, and if it goes away after switching to a blander diet with smaller meals, then you may not have much cause to be concerned about. Over-the-counter medication may be able to help, though you should avoid aspirin or ibuprofen as these can sometimes worsen stomach pain.
But if you've experienced recurring stomach pain for more than a day or two, if it gets worse instead of getting better, or if the pain is severe, then it's important to contact your doctor right away.
Sudden and severe pain, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, usually constitutes an emergency situation.
What Other Symptoms Can Mean I Should See a Gastroenterologist?
Besides chronic or painful stomach pain, you should consider seeking a referral to a gastroenterologist if you are having difficulty swallowing food, if you have severe heartburn after eating, if you have unexplained weight loss, yellowing skin, or bloody stools, among other similar symptoms as these could signal an internal infection and could be potentially dangerous.
Gastroenterologist in Stockbridge, Locust Grove, Riverdale, and Jackson, GA
To schedule a consultation with your local gastroenterologist in Stockbridge, Locust Grove, Riverdale, and Jackson, GA, you can make an appointment with Southern Gastroenterology Specialists by dialing (770) 692-0100.