What does a gastroenterologist do on your first visit?
At your first gastroenterologist visit, the specialist will obtain a detailed health history. They’ll want to know details of:
- Your family history
- Your personal health history
- Symptoms you are having
- Previous treatments you’ve tried
- Any medications you are taking
After asking you many questions, the gastroenterologist will perform a physical examination. Finally, the gastroenterologist will recommend a treatment plan. This may include additional testing or different medications.
What is a gastroenterologist going to look at?
During the physical exam, your gastroenterologist will look at the following:
- Examination of your stomach - the specialist will be looking for any bulges, scars, bloating, and how firm your belly is.
- Auscultation - the gastroenterologist will listen to the sounds your bowels make. They will listen in several different places over the stomach.
- Palpation - the gastroenterologist will push on several regions of your abdomen. They are feeling for areas of tenderness or masses. The specialist may ask you to take a deep breath or hold your breath as they push on your stomach.
- Rectal exam - the gastroenterologist will examine to see any problems with muscle tone, hemorrhoids, or bleeding.
Why would my doctor send me to a gastroenterologist?
If your doctor suspects you have a condition related to your gastrointestinal system, they may refer you to see a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists are doctors that specialize in treating diseases of the gastrointestinal system.
Conditions that you might be referred for include:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Ulcers
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gastrointestinal cancer screening and treatment
How do I prepare for a gastroenterologist appointment?
To prepare for your gastrointestinal appointment, make sure you bring lists of important medical information with you. Your doctor will need to know things like previous surgeries you’ve had and when they were, a list of medication, a list of allergies, and names of all other healthcare providers.
Bringing a diary of symptoms is very helpful for your gastroenterologist. If you record when your symptoms occur and things that seem to trigger or relieve the symptoms, your doctor will find this information valuable in diagnosing your problem.
What are the most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?
The signs and symptoms of common gastrointestinal disorders may include:
- Frequent bloating
- Gas
- Abdominal discomfort
- Rectal bleeding
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
If you experience these signs and symptoms, you may want to consider evaluation by a gastroenterologist.
What is the difference between a gastrologist and a gastroenterologist?
The terms gastrologist and gastroenterologist are often used interchangeably. Technically a gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in gastrology or the study of the stomach. Gastroenterology encompasses the entire gastrointestinal system. Gastrologist is a term that is not used much anymore, and most gastrointestinal specialists will be referred to as a gastroenterologist.
