An unexpected change in digestive health is not only alarming but often an indication of something more serious. From constant bloating to unexplained weight loss, these signs require immediate attention. If these symptoms resonate with you, it is time to consult a gastroenterologist. Let's explore what these signs are and when it's essential to take action.

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Recognizing the Telltale Signs

Constipation: It is a condition characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stools. It may result from a low-fiber diet, dehydration or underlying medical conditions. 

Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea is loose, watery stools occurring three or more times a day for an extended period. It can lead to dehydration and malabsorption. It might indicate infections, food intolerances or inflammatory bowel diseases.

Excess Gas: Excessive gas can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. It may result from consuming certain foods or an imbalance in the gut bacteria. If persistent, it signifies a digestive disorder and requires proper diagnosis and treatment.

Light-Colored Stool: Light or pale-colored stools may indicate a problem with the liver, gallbladder or pancreas. It is due to a blockage in the bile ducts or an issue with bile production. Consulting with a GI physician ensures proper evaluation and management.

Rectal Bleeding: It can signify serious gastrointestinal issues such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures or colorectal cancer. Timely intervention is crucial to identify the cause and implement the right treatment.

Frequent Heartburn: Heartburn that occurs frequently may indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). A gastroenterologist can provide therapies that alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause, promoting long-term relief.

Abdominal Pain: Persistent abdominal pain is a sign of various digestive problems, including gallstones, ulcers or pancreatitis.

Bloating: It indicates digestive system imbalance, such as food intolerance or a disorder like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Jaundice: This condition, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, might indicate liver or gallbladder problems.

Peptic Ulcer: These types of ulcers are sores on the stomach lining, small intestine or esophagus. They can cause pain and bleeding.

Swallowing Difficulty: Difficulty in swallowing might indicate dysphagia, which requires a thorough evaluation by a GI specialist. Treatment might include dietary changes, medication or therapeutic procedures.

Drastic Weight Loss: Unexplained and drastic weight loss leads to serious digestive disorders such as celiac disease or cancer.

Age 45 & Above? Be Proactive with Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer screening is vital for individuals above the age of 45. The process involves specialized tests and careful examinations that only a trained gastroenterologist can perform. Early detection is pivotal in preventing and treating this deadly disease, making routine screening essential for this age group.

Necessary Examination: Which Tests Specialists Perform?

Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a GI specialist to examine the entire colon using a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope. It can detect and remove polyps, investigate rectal bleeding or evaluate symptoms like chronic diarrhea. This procedure helps in the early detection of colorectal cancer and is typically recommended for individuals over 45.

Upper Endoscopy: Also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), upper endoscopy enables the doctor to view the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. Performed with a thin, flexible scope, it can diagnose and treat conditions like GERD, ulcers, tumors and infections in the upper digestive tract.

Sigmoidoscopy: Sigmoidoscopy is similar to colonoscopy but focuses on the rectum and sigmoid colon. Investigating symptoms like bleeding or pain in the lower colon is ideal. It can also be vital in screening for cancer or precancerous polyps in this area.

Polypectomy: If the doctor identifies polyps during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, they may perform a polypectomy. It involves the removal of the polyps for further examination. Removing polyps can prevent them from becoming cancerous, making this an essential preventive measure.

Esophageal Dilation: Esophageal dilation is a procedure used to widen a narrowed esophagus, causing swallowing difficulties. It can be performed using dilators or balloons, depending on the cause and extent of the narrowing. A GI specialist often uses this procedure to treat conditions like achalasia or strictures.

Endoscopic Ultrasound: EUS combines endoscopy and ultrasound to obtain images of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues. It's particularly useful for evaluating pancreas, liver and gallbladder diseases. It can also assist in guiding biopsies or draining cysts.

Detecting the Invisible: The Common Conditions that GI Doctors Can Identify

• Gastrointestinal Cancer: A group of cancers affecting the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines and other related organs.

• Liver Cancer: Cancer that begins in the liver cells, often linked to chronic liver conditions.

• Pancreatic Cancer: A malignant growth within the pancreas, often with late detection and a poor prognosis.

• Colorectal Cancer: Cancer affecting the colon and rectum, with early screening aiding in prevention and treatment.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic disorder causing abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits without visible damage.

• Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming gluten, leading to intestinal damage.

• Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach delays emptying its contents, causing nausea and vomiting.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Chronic digestive tract inflammation, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

• Gallbladder Disease: Includes gallstones and gallbladder inflammation, often requiring surgical intervention.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux causes heartburn and potentially damages the esophagus.

• Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest often leads to acid reflux.

• Acid Reflux: The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus causes discomfort.

• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus, causing pain and bleeding.

• Hepatitis A, B & C: Viral infections that cause liver inflammation, with varying transmission methods and severity.

• Polyps: Noncancerous growths on the lining of the digestive tract, sometimes precursors to cancer.

• Ulcers: Open sores in the digestive tract, often in the stomach, causing pain and bleeding.

• Ulcerative Colitis: A form of inflammatory bowel disease causing long-lasting inflammation in the digestive tract.

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic.

• Cirrhosis: Late-stage scarring of the liver occurs as a result of chronic liver diseases.

• Fatty Liver Disease: Fat accumulation in liver cells is often linked to obesity or alcohol abuse.

• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical removal.

• Diverticular Disease: The formation of small pouches in the colon wall, which can become inflamed or infected.

• Hiatal Hernia: A condition where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest.

• Achalasia: A rare disorder affecting the esophagus, making swallowing difficult.

Proper Diagnosis: Exploring the Surgical Expertise of GI Physicians

A professional doctor may perform several types of surgeries to treat various digestive disorders. From minimally invasive procedures like endoscopic surgeries to more complex ones such as polypectomies and biopsies, skilled GI doctors in OKC can address the specific needs of your digestive system.

Seeking Specialized Care? Know When You Need a Referral

Generally, you might need a referral from your primary care physician to see digestive health specialists. This step ensures that specialized care is sought when necessary and that your medical history is accurately conveyed. However, some cases might allow direct appointments without referrals, depending on the healthcare provider and insurance policies.

Schedule Consultation with a Doctor for Your Digestive Wellness

Explore the world of digestive wellness with Digestive Disease Specialists, INC. Our expert gastroenterologists in Edmond OK, are here to guide you through every step of your digestive health journey. Connect with us today and take control of your gastrointestinal well-being.

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.