When to visit a Gastroenterology Specialist when dealing with Stomach Pain

See your Gastroenterology Specialist for these symptoms

There are some conditions that cause stomach pain and won’t go away without help from a gastroenterology doctor. Here are some symptoms that warrant a trip to a gastroenterology specialist when associated with stomach pain:

• Persistent Bowel Changes – While everyone experiences diarrhea or constipation from time to time, in most cases the issues will clear up on their own. However, experiencing recurring changes in bowel movements accompanied by stomach pain may mean it’s time to see your local gastroenterologist.
• Rectal Bleeding – If you are noticing blood in your stool or blood on toilet paper when you wipe, then there could potentially be bleeding occurring somewhere within your gastrointestinal tract. In most cases, anal bleeding is caused by someone minor such as external or internal hemorrhoids or an anal fissure. However, noticing persistent or heavy bleeding along with stomach pain could be a sign of something far more serious, and it is important to see a doctor right away.
• Sharp, Sudden Pain in Lower Right Side – Sometimes people experience severe and sudden stomach pain in the lower right of their abdomen area. This abdominal pain could be appendicitis. Some people will also experience other discomforting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal swelling. Appendicitis-related symptoms often appear rapidly, and intensely, and will only get worse, so it is important to schedule an immediate appointment with your gastroenterologist or seek emergency medical care.
• Worsening Stomach Pain – Experiencing persistent stomach pain should raise concern, especially if the discomfort begins to radiate to other parts of the body such as the back or shoulder. This could be a sign of a very serious issue related to your pancreas or gallbladder. If you’re dealing with a digestive condition that is affecting your pancreas, you may also experience nausea or vomiting, an increased heartbeat, or a tender stomach. A gallbladder attack is something that usually triggers sudden and severe stomach pain that can carry to the back or shoulders. Experiencing these discomforting symptoms should be followed by seeking immediate medical care.

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These are just a few of the various cases that a gastroenterology specialist will likely be able to help with. Depending on the severity and frequency of stomach pain, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing, they may recommend tests such as an endoscopy, colonoscopy, and state-of-the-art imaging to determine what is causing your stomach discomfort. Once the cause of your stomach pain is identified, your gastrointestinal specialist will create a tailored treatment plan to eliminate, reduce, or manage stomach pain and discomfort.