Despite the prevalence of gastrointestinal conditions, many of them, especially the serious ones, are largely underestimated and overlooked, mainly because there’s very little understanding of them. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, many patients who are experiencing gastrointestinal discomforts know very little about their symptoms — including how and why these should be promptly and effectively managed.
To get a better insight, check out this brief guide to the common gastroenterology symptoms. If any of these is becoming persistent or starting to affect your quality of life, it could be a sign of a gastrointestinal disorder, which requires both proper medical intervention and a change in lifestyle habits. Your best bet is to consult a gastroenterologist, who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the full range of conditions that affect the entire digestive system.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can range from an ache to debilitating cramps and has many potential causes, which include:
- Appendicitis
- Constipation
- Gastroenteritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)– Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Stomach cancer
- Trapped gas
- Ulcer
If you experience the following along with abdominal pain, see your gastroenterologist immediately for proper diagnosis and prompt treatment, as these are signs of potentially fatal conditions.
Gastroenteritis (also called stomach flu)- Acute inflammation or irritation of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus, bacterium, or parasite
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloody stools
- Inability to keep food down for more than two days
- Signs of dehydration (including not urinating enough)
- Fever
Appendicitis –Inflammation of the appendix caused by blockage in the lining of the appendix or by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection
- Fever (low grade but may worsen as the condition progresses)
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sudden and worsening pain on your navel or on the right side of your abdomen (especially when you cough, walk, or make other movements)
Bloating
Bloating also has many potential causes. These can range from benign triggers, such as medications and consumption of foods high in complex carbs, to very serious ones, such as stomach, pancreatic, and colon cancers and liver disease.
If your abdominal bloating is prolonged and severe and accompanied by other worrying symptoms, such as weight loss, bloody stools, and constipation, it is imperative that you consult a gastroenterologist to rule out serious digestive conditions.
Irregular and Loose Bowel Movements
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines constipation as having either hard, dry stools or having only fewer than three bowel movements every week. While constipation isn’t usually any cause for concern, it is inconvenient and painful and may result in hemorrhoids or fissures. You can usually control constipation with diet changes, enough hydration, and sufficient exercise. You should also avoid resisting the urge to pass stool.
If you are passing loose, watery stools (bowel movements) three or more times in one day, you may be experiencing the opposite of constipation—diarrhea. The condition can either be acute or chronic.
Diarrhea is considered acute if it lasts one to two days. It’s usually mild and resolves on its own. However, you should visit your gastroenterologist right away if:
- It lasts more than two days.
- It is accompanied by high fever (above 102 degrees F), chills, and/or vomiting.
- You are passing watery stools six or more times in 24 hours.
- You are passing bloody or purulent stools.
These symptoms have various causes, many of which are serious conditions, such as food poisoning, parasitic infection, colon polyps, and stomach cancer.
Chronic diarrhea, which lasts two to four weeks, could signify a digestive disorder, such as IBD, and also warrants a visit to a gastroenterologist to prevent potentially serious complications, such as colorectal cancer and megacolon (the rapid widening and swelling of the colon).
Heartburn
Heartburn refers to the burning sensation in your chest, which is often worse after you eat, in the evening, or when you lie down or bend over. Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm; however, if it occurs two or more times a week, it is an indication of a chronic condition referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
When left untreated, the acid from your stomach can erode your esophagus and lead to inflammation of the esophageal lining (esophagitis), which can cause bleeding, chronic scarring, and ulcers and interfere with your ability to swallow.
Digestive Healthcare in Austin, TX
At Austin Gastroenterology, we have 30 board-certified gastroenterologists who are all dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality, evidence-based care. We offer a number of on-site GI diagnostic procedures, such as colonoscopy, endoscopy, and motility testing, so our patients can get quick confirmation of their diagnosis and prompt treatment without having to go around town.
To schedule an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists, you may fill out our online appointment form or call us at (512) 244-2273 to reach our North Offices, (512) 454-4588 for our Central Offices, and (512) 448-4588 for our South Offices. We also offer telehealth visits to provide our new and established patients the added convenience and ensure continuity of care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
