What is a Gastroenterologist?

You may think of the obvious, GI doctors handle stomach problems, and you would be right! Not only does the GI tract include the mouth, esophagus, small and large bowel, rectum, and anus, but it also includes the organs of the biliary system: the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

GI Specialities:

• Heartburn and Swallowing
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis 
• Hepatology: the study of body parts such as the liver, the biliary tree, the gallbladder and the pancreas.
• Hemorrhoids
• Constipation and Incontinence
• Probiotics

Symptoms treated by a Gastrointestinal Doctor:

• Abdominal Pain
• Bleeding from the anus
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Swelling of the stomach
• Heartburn
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Excessive gas
• Swallowing problems

Other conditions treated by a GI doctor:

• Alcoholic Liver Disease 
• Barrett’s Esophagus
• Celiac Disease

Most importantly, a Gastroenterologist can perform a life saving colonoscopy to detect for Colorectal Cancer. Per the CDC: Regular screening, beginning at age 50, is the key to preventing colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps, so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.