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:
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Persistent Abdominal Pain: Ongoing pain or cramping in the stomach area that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter remedies.
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Chronic Bloating or Gas: Bloating that feels excessive or constant, often accompanied by discomfort or visible swelling in the abdomen.
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Nausea or Vomiting: Frequent nausea or vomiting, especially if there is no clear cause, such as illness or food intolerance.
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Changes in Bowel Habits: Consistent issues with diarrhoea or constipation, or noticeable changes in stool colour, size, or frequency.
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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.
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Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying, especially when paired with other symptoms, can point to digestive issues or malabsorption.
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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.
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