Gastroenterology is an area of medical specialization that involves the digestive organs. Gastroenterologists – or GI doctors – are physicians with education and training beyond internal medicine that diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the digestive tract. These include gut cancers and cirrhosis, as well as inflammatory conditions and acquired deformities, such as irritable…
Gastroenterologists in Westlake
A Comprehensive Guide to Working With a Gastroenterologist
Your digestive system processes the foods you eat and absorbs nutrients for use in bodily processes. This is a very important function for your overall health. If you have concerns about your gastrointestinal health, you need expert diagnostic assessments and treatments available from a gastroenterologist. A Gastroenterologist Diagnoses and Treats Diseases and Conditions of the…
5 Things To Do When Seeking A Gastroenterologist
The two most common reasons why patients seek out a gastroenterologist are to diagnose and treat bothersome digestive symptoms and to undergo a health screening, such as a colonoscopy. A gastroenterologist is a specialist doctor with expertise in gastroenterological conditions and illnesses. They can diagnose, treat, and prevent GI issues using a variety of treatments,…
What Are the Diagnostic Procedures in Gastroenterology?
Diagnosis of a digestive tract disorder is crucial to accurate and effective treatment. No matter what digestive disorder you have, you will be asked about your digestive symptoms and medical history when you visit a gastroenterologist. In some cases, physical exams are also performed. However, to be certain, in most cases, a gastroenterologist needs specific…
How Accurate Is a Colonoscopy to Screen for Colon Cancer?
A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure that involves inserting a colonoscope—a long, thin, and flexible tube with a miniature camera on its tip—into your rectum to obtain a live image of the lining of your colon. The main purpose of the procedure is to detect polyps and other abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and…
How to Choose Your Next GI Doctor
Bloating, constipation, heartburn, and stomach pain are symptoms that usually disappear on their own. However, frequent or severe cases require a consultation with a gastroenterologist or GI doctor. If you haven’t been to a gastroenterologist before, it can be confusing deciding how to choose one. You want to select a doctor who is a good…
Colon Cancer Screening: Is It Right for You?
Colon cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It starts when healthy cells in the large intestine (colon) develop harmful changes in their DNA. Over time, these changes can damage the DNA, rendering the cells unable to properly grow and divide. Damage to their DNA essentially causes the cells…
When to See a Gastroenterologist for Gallbladder Problems
The gallbladder is a small sac located under the liver. It serves the purpose of storing bile that the liver produces. During the digestion process, the gallbladder releases bile to aid in digestion. It’s especially necessary for fat digestion. In some cases, the gallbladder can have issues, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and serious…
Is It Indigestion, or Could It Be My Gallbladder?
Indigestion and gallstones are two different gastrointestinal conditions that can cause abdominal discomfort after eating, especially after eating certain foods. It is easy to get these conditions confused with one another, because there are many similarities. Whereas indigestion usually responds well to over-the-counter treatments, problems with the gallbladder – such as gallstones – require medical…