When You Should See a Gastroenterologist

If you are experiencing persistent or severe gastrointestinal problems, it might be time to see a gastroenterologist. Abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, and other related symptoms could be signs of a digestive disorder. A gastroenterologist can help you enjoy better digestive health by diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal problems. The experienced gastroenterologist at Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists in Chicago, IL, can help you achieve relief from gastrointestinal symptoms by prescribing a specific course of treatment.

Gastrointestinal and Digestive Disorders

Some many gastrointestinal disorders and diseases can affect the digestive system. Gastroenterologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, including:

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Pancreas disorder
  • Liver disorder
  • Celiac disease
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Hemorrhoids

Gastrointestinal disorders can be associated with a wide range of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, or bloody stools. If these symptoms are severe or occur chronically, that could be a sign of a more serious problem. Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists can screen for various conditions and identify the specific problem. A treatment plan can then be developed to help you manage your symptoms and experience relief from pain and discomfort.

Gastroenterology Screenings

Many types of screening methods are available for identifying and diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders. Some of the gastroenterology screenings performed by the skilled gastroenterologist at our office in Chicago, IL, include:

  • Colonoscopy
  • Endoscopy
  • Upper Endoscopy
  • Endoscopic Ultrasound
  • Wireless Video Capsule Enteroscopy

Each screening method utilizes specific instruments and procedures, but they have a similar objective — to more closely examine a particular area of the gastrointestinal system. The type of procedure that is performed can depend on the patient’s individual symptoms, a personal or family history of a specific disorder, and other factors. Many gastroenterology screenings are performed using an endoscope, which allows the doctor to examine internal areas such as the lining of the intestines, without having to perform exploratory surgery.
 
As an example, colonoscopies involve the use of an instrument called a colonoscope that enables the gastroenterologist to view the lining of the colon. A colonoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a mini video camera on one end. As the colonoscope is passed through the large intestine, images of the intestine’s lining are transmitted to a screen that the doctor can view right away. If any suspicious areas are discovered, the gastroenterologist can immediately take a sample for biopsy to check for cancer or other concerns.

You should see a gastroenterologist if you are experiencing chronic or severe digestive issues, such as heartburn, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. We can diagnose the problem and help you find relief with the right treatment for your condition. To schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable gastroenterologist, call Summit Digestive and Liver Disease Specialists, CA, at (630) 889-9889.