A gastroenterologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (GI disorders), which includes the stomach, intestines, and other organs involved in the digestive tract.
Gastroenterologists are experts in managing diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. They are also highly trained in endoscopy (a procedure used to visualize the inside of the GI tract), colonoscopy (a procedure used to detect and remove precancerous polyps from the colon), and upper endoscopy (a procedure used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum).
Abnormal digestive and bowel symptoms may point to a disorder or disease that can be expertly treated by a gastroenterologist. Below are the top 3 reasons to see one.
1. Throat Pain/Swallowing Issues
There are many GI conditions that can cause throat pain and difficulty swallowing, but it is often caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus, irritating the throat. Some of the more common causes include acid reflux, GERD, esophagitis, and ulcers. A more serious, life-threatening condition that causes throat pain and trouble swallowing is esophageal cancer. A gastroenterologist can review your medical history and may use an endoscope to visualize the upper GI tract and find out what could be causing your throat pain and swallowing issues.
2. Chronic Stomach Ache
Abdominal pain is a cause for concern, and if you are experiencing it frequently, it could be due to an irritable bowel syndrome disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, gastritis and peptic or duodenal ulcers, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It can also be caused by colon cancer. A gastroenterologist can use a series of tests, including medical imaging tools to visualize the upper and lower GI tract, to determine what is causing your chronic stomach issues.
3. For a Routine Colonoscopy
A gastroenterologist not only provides treatments but also preventive services and health screenings. One of the health screenings a GI doctor can provide is colonoscopy, which can detect abnormal growths such as precancerous polyps in the lower GI tract, particularly the colon. A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard in detecting serious, life-threatening GI conditions such as colorectal cancer. In addition to health screenings, GI doctors can provide education on proper nutrition and diet to reduce your risk for GI diseases.
Best Gastroenterologist in Austin, TX
Austin Gastroenterology is the largest gastroenterology practice in Central Texas, with nine locations for your convenience. Our gastroenterologists can provide for all your GI needs. We are committed to giving a superior patient experience. From diagnosis and treatment to preventive health screenings, we make sure you are relaxed and comfortable.
Come to us for any concerning GI symptoms you may have. Our doctors emphasize prevention and early detection. To schedule an appointment, call our location nearest you or use our convenient online request form. We look forward to giving you the highest quality GI services in Central Texas.
