Gastroenterologists are able to diagnose a wide variety of conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract. The gastrointestinal tract is a long, coiled tube that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. Along the way, it includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. The primary function of the gastrointestinal tract is to digest food and absorb nutrients.
A gastroenterologist is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions. Below are some of the most conditions that a gastroenterologist can diagnose.
Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus changes, becoming more like the lining of the intestine. This change is thought to be caused by damage to the esophageal cells from stomach acid. Barrett’s esophagus can lead to esophageal cancer.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a condition in which the body cannot properly digest gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease eat foods containing gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging the lining of the small intestine. This damage prevents the small intestine from absorbing nutrients from food, which can lead to malnutrition and other health problems.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the lining of the digestive tract. It often results in abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition, which means it can last for months or even years. There is no cure for Crohn’s disease, but there are treatments that can help improve symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is characterized by the inflammation of the diverticula, which are small pouches in the lining of the intestine. This can cause severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. Diverticulitis is usually caused by a combination of factors, including a low-fiber diet, dehydration, and obesity.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a condition in which the contents of the stomach reflux back up into the esophagus. This can happen when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes or weakens, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. GERD can also be caused by certain foods and drinks, such as spicy or fatty foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, and alcohol.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS affects the large intestine, causing a flurry of symptoms. The cause of IBS is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of psychological and physical factors. IBS is more common in women than men, and it often begins after a stressful event. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer begins in the large intestine or rectum. Most colorectal cancers start as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Some polyps can turn into cancerous growths, which can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body through blood vessels and lymphatic channels.
A gastroenterologist can treat all disorders of the upper GI tract, and lower GI tract, as well as functional GI disorders, and liver problems. They use a variety of techniques to diagnose GI conditions, such as blood tests, breath tests, stool tests, endoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and colonoscopies.
Gastroenterologist in Austin, TX
If you would like an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of your gastrointestinal issue, choose Austin Gastroenterology (AG), the largest physician group in Central Texas. Our doctors practice patient-focused care and use the latest advancements to treat gastrointestinal conditions and improve patient outcomes.
To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call our office nearest you or use our convenient online request form.
