Q. What are the common symptoms that indicate a need for a gastroenterology consultation?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
If you've been noticing unusual or persistent digestive symptoms, it may be time to consider a gastroenterology consultation. Common symptoms that indicate the need for specialized care include:
-
Persistent Abdominal Pain: Ongoing pain or cramping in the stomach area that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter remedies.
-
Chronic Bloating or Gas: Bloating that feels excessive or constant, often accompanied by discomfort or visible swelling in the abdomen.
-
Nausea or Vomiting: Frequent nausea or vomiting, especially if there is no clear cause, such as illness or food intolerance.
-
Changes in Bowel Habits: Consistent issues with diarrhoea or constipation, or noticeable changes in stool colour, size, or frequency.
-
Blood in Stool: Any sign of blood in your stool—whether bright red or dark—should be evaluated, as this could signal bleeding within the digestive tract.
-
Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying, especially when paired with other symptoms, can point to digestive issues or malabsorption.
-
Frequent Heartburn or Acid Reflux: Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week or interferes with daily activities may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
These symptoms should not be overlooked. If you're experiencing any of them consistently, a gastroenterologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and help create a personalized treatment plan to address the root cause and improve your quality of life.
Related Questions
-
What diagnostic tests are commonly used in cardiology to assess heart health? | Secondmedic
-
What Do Other Customers Say About Their Experience With This Pharmacy? | Secondmedic
-
I was recently prescribed Ramipril 2.5mg to treat high blood pressure. After taking it for 9 days I started having diarrhoea, which has persisted for 4 days now. This is listed as a possible side effect but I’m worried about the longevity of it. Is it normal to last this long as my body adjusts to the drug, or is it a concern? I had blood tests taken yesterday that came back normal. | Secondmedic