What is a gastroenterologist?
A gastroenterologist primarily diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders impacting the digestive system, including the stomach, esophagus, gallbladder, pancreas, liver, intestines, colon, and rectum. They use specialized instruments to perform endoscopic procedures in which they view the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and perform a diagnosis.
Gastroenterologists study the physiology and disease of all the digestive organs in the body. They learn about every organ involved in the movement of material, its digestion and absorption, and the waste removal from the system. To become a gastroenterologist, they must complete four years of medical school, three years of their internal medicine residency, and two to three years of fellowship training in gastroenterology.
This intense training program teaches a gastroenterologist to evaluate and treat various conditions and provide appropriate treatment and care. Once they complete their training, they take an exam to be certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Role of gastroenterologists in medicine
Although gastroenterologists do not perform surgeries, they may work closely with a GI surgeon. They also work with other healthcare professionals, such as hepatologists, radiologists, and oncologists, to provide better care. Gastroenterologists near you can help you deal with the following conditions -
- Cirrhosis
- Constipation and diarrhea
- Crohn's disease
- Gallbladder disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Peptic ulcers
- Pancreatitis
Gastroenterologists are well-trained to perform endoscopic procedures and provide accurate, comprehensive diagnoses and consultations. Some of the nonsurgical procedures that they can perform are -
- Colonoscopy - To identify colon cancer or colon polyps.
- Endoscopic ultrasound - To analyze the upper and lower GI tract.
- Feeding tube insertion - Insert feeding tubes into the abdomen.
- Liver biopsy - To examine inflammation and fibrosis in the liver.
- Upper endoscopy - To analyze and diagnose conditions related to the food pipe, stomach, and small intestine.
When should you see a gastroenterologist?
Generally, you may have to see a gastroenterologist if you are experiencing concerns connected to your digestive systems, such as difficulty swallowing, nausea and vomiting, and stomach pain. Some serious problems that may require immediate medical attention are -
- Bloating - Feeling a tight or full belly caused by excess gas production or gas trapped in your colon. It can also signify conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Constipation - Although the frequency of bowel movements may vary from person to person, you must visit a gastroenterologist if it has been less than thrice a week.
- Diarrhea - Happens due to consuming particular food or medications that do not suit the stomach. However, constant instances of diarrhea can be uncomfortable and indicative of something more serious.
- Heartburn - Occasional heartburn is manageable at home. Frequent symptoms can indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD ).
- Severe abdominal pain - This can last for hours or may come and go with intense pain that is beyond a normal bellyache. It can be a sign of pancreatitis or some other serious condition.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool - This is a possibility of hemorrhoids that over-the-counter medications can treat. In some cases, this may require advanced treatment options only offered by a gastroenterologist.
In summary, if you identify any abnormal bleeding or pain that causes changes in your bowel movements or the consistency and color of your stool, you must visit a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. A gastroenterologist can help identify and tell you the exact cause and the most effective way to treat your symptoms.
Adults over the age of 45 are at higher risk for conditions such as colon cancer. If you are in this risk group, it is recommended that you regularly visit a gastroenterologist for screening and preventive care. A colonoscopy may make you uncomfortable, but it can save your life.
What is the difference between a gastroenterologist and a proctologist?
A gastroenterologist and a proctologist (often called a colorectal surgeon) differ in their training and focus. Proctologists specialize in conditions affecting the lower large intestine, including the colon, rectum, and anus, and treat a broader range of gastrointestinal (GI) issues that may require surgery.
Proctologists are trained as surgeons, completing a general surgery residency and specialized training in colorectal procedures. They handle surgical treatments but can also diagnose and prescribe medications when needed.
Any gastroenterologist near you, however, is a non-surgical specialist who diagnoses and manages GI conditions. If surgery is necessary, they refer patients to a proctologist.
What should you expect at the first appointment?
Your visit with the gastroenterologist will begin with a physical exam to understand the primary cause of your symptoms. For this, you may lie on the exam table while your doctor presses down on the area around your belly and pay close attention to any odd sounds from your bowels. They may also look for any mass or tenderness that can cause concern. Your doctor may also have to digitally examine your rectum to find any irregularities, such as bulges.
Next, they may ask you to complete diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or blood and stool tests. They may also suggest procedures such as an endoscopy, colonoscopy, or enteroscopy. These tests will help the gastroenterologists comprehend your problem.
Accordingly, your doctor may suggest specific medications or lifestyle changes to help improve your condition. They may prescribe over-the-counter medications to treat your constipation or other symptoms and other lifestyle changes.
Remember to let your gastroenterologist know if you experience any changes in bowel movements or notice unexplained weight changes.
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common gastroenterological condition that includes changes in bowel habits and abdominal discomfort, diagnosed using the updated Rome IV criteria. Recent studies suggest that many IBS symptoms stem from heightened sensitivity of nerves within the gastrointestinal tract, which operate independently from spinal cord and brain nerves. The condition may be influenced by how these stomach nerves communicate with the brain or how the brain interprets their signals. In Western countries, it affects a considerable portion of the US population, with estimates suggesting that it affects up to 15 percent of the American population. IBS also affects women more frequently than men.
The primary symptom of IBS is abdominal pain or discomfort coupled with alterations in bowel habits. Individuals with IBS may express abdominal discomfort in various forms, including sharp pain, cramping, bloating, distention, fullness, or a sensation of burning. This discomfort can be prompted by factors like consuming certain foods, post-meal periods, emotional stress, constipation, or diarrhea. Additional symptoms include:
- Presence of mucus in stool
- Urgency to defecate
- Sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation
Furthermore, individuals with IBS might encounter symptoms unrelated to the intestine, such as:
- Migraine headaches
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Anxiety or depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic pelvic pain
While some individuals with IBS can tolerate their symptoms effectively and continue with their daily activities, others may experience significant disruption. A skilled gastroenterologist near you can differentiate between the typical symptoms of IBS and other symptoms that warrant further evaluation to rule out alternative diseases.
Diagnosing IBS starts with a thorough physical examination, during which you can discuss your symptoms and medical background with your doctor. While a gastroenterologist may diagnose IBS based on your symptoms and history, they will also search for any warning signs indicating the necessity for exploring alternative diagnoses.
What is the role of a gastroenterologist in treating cancers?
A gastroenterologist near you is often the first specialist to identify cancer in the digestive system's organs. Using procedures like endoscopy and biopsy, they locate, remove, and analyze tumors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and biliary system. If cancer is detected, they may perform additional endoscopic procedures to determine its stage by taking further tissue samples and assessing whether it has spread. In some cases, gastroenterologists can treat specific tumors using endoscopic methods, such as dissection or laser therapy.
Gastroenterologists are involved in diagnosing, staging, or treating cancers such as:
- Stomach cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors
- Duodenal cancer
- Small intestine cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Bile duct cancer
A gastroenterologist near you may manage other types of cancer besides diagnosing and treating GI cancers. Their expertise is valuable when assessing whether cancer has spread beyond its original site using advanced endoscopic techniques.
Some ways to improve your digestion naturally
Improving digestion naturally involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits and making dietary choices that support your digestive system. Here are some effective ways to enhance digestion:
- Eat a balanced diet - Consume a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporate fiber-rich foods like beans, lentils, oats, and more to promote regular bowel movements.
- Stay hydrated - Drink plenty amount of water throughout the day. It supports digestion and prevents constipation.
- Manage stress - Chronic stress can impact digestion, leading to diarrhea, stomach ulcers, constipation, and IBS. So, practice relaxation techniques, including meditation, deep breathing, or yoga, to keep it at bay. Some studies suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy and acupuncture also improve digestive symptoms.
- Mindful eating - Avoid distractions like screens while eating to focus on your meal and avoid overeating. Eating too quickly can cause bloating, gas, and indigestion. Hence, consciously choose every bite of your food and pay attention to its temperature, texture, and taste.
- Chew thoroughly - A poor way of chewing the food decreases nutrient absorption. Thus, chew your food slowly and thoroughly. It helps break it down into smaller particles, making it easier for your stomach and intestines to process.
- Regular exercise - Physical activity promotes healthy digestion by stimulating intestinal contractions. It may also reduce inflammatory bowel disease symptoms due to anti-inflammatory effects, like decreasing inflammatory compounds. Going for a short walk after eating can aid digestion.
- Limit alcohol - Alcohol might increase stomach acid production, which can cause stomach ulcers, heartburn, acid reflux, inflammatory bowel diseases, increased gut permeability, and abnormal changes in gut bacteria. Moreover, excessive alcohol consumption is associated with gastrointestinal tract bleeding. Reduced alcohol intake may, therefore, improve digestion.
- Quit smoking - Smoking elevates your chances of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It may also link to stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal cancers, and increased surgeries in ulcerative colitis patients.
How do you find the best gastroenterologist near you in the Bronx, NY?
Book your medical appointments on Zocdoc, the quickest and easiest way to find top doctors in the Bronx, New York. You can enter the specialty and your symptoms, and Zocdoc will find you the right specialist from its extensive database. Add your location and preferred appointment date to narrow down your search. If you have an existing healthcare plan, Zocdoc can find an in-network provider to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
If your insurance plan isn't listed on Zocdoc, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card. Zocdoc will scan the image to identify your likely plan. However, this feature is not available for vision or dental insurance. If you encounter any issues uploading your card or have insurance-related concerns, visit Zocdoc's patient help center.
Once you click on the search icon, you'll find a list of the best providers in the city. Filter these results by distance, time, age, gender, language, hospital affiliations, and whether or not they treat children. Through Zocdoc, you will find the best gastroenterologists near you that match all your preferences.
Each provider profile includes detailed information such as their education and training history, hospital affiliations, and certifications. The profile also has user-verified reviews and ratings, giving you a comprehensive idea of the provider.
Once you have assessed the profiles, you can make an informed decision and book an online or an in-person appointment for free. Zocdoc is all about convenience, allowing you to book and track all your medical appointments. Locating the best GI doctor near you is now easier!
All bookings on Zocdoc are simple, secure, and 100% free. You can also download the app on the App Store or Google Play.
Statistics on gastrointestinal problems in New York, United States
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 14.8 million adults in the United States were diagnosed with ulcers. A 2018 health statistics summary by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 4.4% of adults are affected by Ulcers in the country's northeast region. There have been over 37.2 million in-office visits and over 7.9 million emergency department visits for digestive diseases and related concerns. Additionally, the country has approximately 4.5 million cases of liver disease.
Reports from the National Library of Medicine suggest that around 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once every month. Heartburn is not severe until it is regular and interferes with your daily routine, leading to cancer. Being overweight or obese and smoking are behavioral health risks, increasing the chance of acid reflexes causing heartburn.
A 2014 report published by the New York State Department of Health shows that mortality risk factors due to obesity in New York City is nearly 24%, about 18% in Kingsbridge and Riverdale, almost 27% in Northeast Bronx, 37% in Bronx Park, and close to 30% in South Bronx.
Gastrointestinal problems can be severe, requiring specialized attention from a gastroenterologist. Therefore, if you are experiencing any symptoms, you must immediately visit a specialist.
Sources
American College of Gastroenterology
Healthline[1]
Houston Methodist
Medical News Today
WebMD
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [1]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [2]
NIH MedlinePlus Magazine
New York State Department of Health
Healthline[2]
Healthline[3]
John Hopkins Medicine
Cleveland Clinic
