What do gastroenterologists do?
Gastroenterologists are medical doctors specializing in the field of gastroenterology. Their primary focus is examining, diagnosing, and treating digestive tract, liver, and pancreas issues. Your primary care provider (PCP) or family physician may refer you to a gastroenterologist if they detect a problem involving the gastrointestinal (GI) system.
If required, gastroenterologists may use endoscopic methods to assess your digestive tract internally and, if necessary, refer you for surgical intervention. Besides common conditions of the GI tract, people also visit a GI specialist near them to treat ailments such as pancreatic diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal cancer, etc.
Education and training of gastroenterologists
To become a gastroenterologist, a candidate must earn a bachelor's degree before applying to medical school. After graduating from medical school, they must complete three years of residency and specialize in gastroenterology to acquire relevant practical experience and mentorship.
Once the residency tenure is complete, the doctors must complete a fellowship of close to three years to receive specialized training and learn endoscopy. Gastroenterologists use nonsurgical endoscopic procedures and tools to detect GI tract conditions. Hence, endoscopy is a must-have skill for them.
After completing the training, the doctors can take the specialty certification exam regulated by the American Board of Internal Medicine to practice as board-certified gastroenterologists.
Some gastroenterologists also receive merits in the form of suffixes like FACG or FACP from the American College of Gastroenterology and the American College of Physicians. These suffixes designate them as eligible fellows with exceptional accomplishments in gastroenterology via service, research, or teaching.
Procedures performed by gastroenterologists
Gastroenterologists perform nonsurgical procedures to investigate the GI tract and other digestive conditions. They might sometimes work alongside other specialized surgeons to treat exceptional cases. The different techniques include
- Endoscopy is a popular procedure in gastroenterology. It involves inserting an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube, through the patient's mouth. This tube has a camera attached at one end, which helps to view the internal tract of the digestive system live. It can travel up to the stomach, so it helps diagnose and treat disorders related to the esophagus, intestines, and stomach.
- Liver biopsy - A gastroenterologist performs this procedure alongside a specialist surgeon. They extract a small portion of liver tissue for close examination in a medical laboratory. This procedure detects liver conditions like infection, inflammation, or cancer.
- Colonoscopy - This procedure is performed similarly to an endoscopy. The only difference is that, unlike endoscopy, this method involves an endoscope being inserted through the rectum. The camera visualizes the inner lining of the colon and rectum to detect any abnormality.
- Sigmoidoscopy - This procedure is similar to a colonoscopy. However, this method allows examination of the rectum and the lower section of the colon. You can not see the images of the entire colon. It helps detect diseases like colonic or rectal cancer and can pick up precancerous lesions such as polyps, which helps in early cancer detection. Doctors use this to understand the reason behind common symptoms of these cancers, such as unexplained bleeding, weight loss, etc.
- Insertion of a feeding tube- During recovery from a surgical procedure, patients cannot eat orally. They are fed through a feeding tube directly into the stomach, ensuring adequate nutrition and calorie intake. A gastroenterologist typically performs this process.
- Polypectomy- This procedure clears the bowel's lining by removing polyps. These noncancerous outgrowths affect about 30% of the population in the USA (aged above 50). In this process, the gastroenterologist removes polyps using forceps with a wire loop. The doctor can also perform a colonoscopy and burn off the polyps inside the colon using an electric current.
Who is a pediatric gastroenterologist??
A pediatric gastroenterologist specializes in treating children's digestive, nutritional, and liver disorders. If your child experiences issues such as food allergies, digestive problems, or nutritional concerns, a referral to a pediatric gastroenterologist may be needed.
They manage various conditions, including food intolerances, irritable bowel diseases, malnutrition, feeding disorders, and conditions like GERD or Hirschsprung's disease. They also treat more complex issues such as liver disease, celiac disease, chronic diarrhea, and pancreatic insufficiency, providing essential care for digestive and abdominal health in children.
How should one prepare for a colonoscopy?
Doctors typically suggest dietary changes about a week before the colonoscopy, including avoiding seeds, whole-kernel corn, grains, nuts, raw fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, individuals may need to stop taking certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or blood thinners, to minimize bleeding risks during the procedure.
Two days before the colonoscopy, staying hydrated by consuming plenty of water or other liquids is crucial. Patients should avoid red or orange foods to prevent interference with the colon's visual clarity. In the 24 hours leading up to the procedure, individuals must adhere to a clear liquid diet, including electrolyte-containing beverages, clear broth, gelatin, popsicles, coffee or tea without milk, and strained fruit juices without pulp. It is essential to consume only clear liquids during this period.
A doctor often prescribes an oral solution, such as GoLytely or Colyte, to be ingested to clean out the colon. This solution induces frequent bowel movements, leading to diarrhea, ensuring the colon is free of fecal matter. The bowel preparation process may cause discomfort, including thirst, nausea, bloating, or dizziness. If such symptoms arise, individuals should take a break, wait for at least 30 minutes, and slowly sip on clear fluids.
During the bowel preparation, individuals may find it helpful to stay close to a bathroom, wear elastic-waist pants for easy access, drink clear liquids after swallowing the prep to eliminate the unpleasant taste, and apply petroleum jelly or use baby wipes to reduce irritation to the anus. Bowel movements will eventually become clear or yellow, indicating the colon is likely now clear of fecal matter.
What should one expect during an appointment for a colonoscopy?
After the preparation, on the day of the colonoscopy, the person will pass only clear to yellow-tinted liquid from the bowel. The doctor will explain the procedure and insert an intravenous catheter to administer medications. Then, the doctor will insert the colonoscope and examine the colon's lining for irregularities, potentially removing polyps or taking tissue samples for biopsy.
After the procedure, individuals may need someone to drive them home. The doctor will inform you about the next meeting or immediately schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results, including any findings or necessary interventions based on the examination.
When should you see a gastroenterologist?
Digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) diseases can affect anyone. A timely intervention by a GI specialist near you can help resolve them. Your primary healthcare physician can review your symptoms, and if they suspect a GI tract or digestive issue, they will refer you to a gastroenterologist. The following symptoms may indicate an underlying problem in your digestive system:
- Chronic abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Blood in stools
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Nausea
- Jaundice
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
Gastroenterologists treat diseases like colon cancer, hepatitis, pancreatitis, celiac disease, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.
How to choose the right gastroenterologist near you
Choosing a gastroenterologist requires trust, as you'll discuss sensitive health concerns. Start by seeking a recommendation from your primary care doctor, as they know your medical history and can suggest someone suitable.
You can also rely on friends or family for referrals, which can provide more personal insights than online reviews alone.
Additionally, consider your health insurance coverage. Ensure the specialist is within your network to avoid unexpected costs. Most insurance providers offer a portal to help locate in-network doctors in your area.
Colorectal surgeons vs. gastroenterologists
Colorectal surgeons focus on surgeries involving the colon, rectum, and anus, treating conditions like hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, and diverticulitis. They are skilled in procedures such as colonoscopy and endoluminal surgery. While some colorectal surgeons also practice general surgery, others specialize solely in colorectal procedures.
A gastroenterologist near you manages gastrointestinal diseases like liver conditions and inflammatory bowel disease through non-surgical methods. Though they perform procedures like endoscopy and colonoscopy, they refer patients to colorectal surgeons when surgery, such as for large polyps or colon cancer, is required.
What is irritable bowel syndrome?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects the digestive system and presents with a variety of symptoms. Although it is a common gastrointestinal disorder, it can be discomforting for those who suffer from it. People with IBS often experience excessive gas, abdominal pain, and cramps. Depending on the type of bowel movement problems experienced, researchers classify IBS into different categories, which can influence the type of treatment needed. Certain medications may only be effective for specific kinds of IBS.
Individuals with IBS may experience normal bowel movements on some days and abnormal ones on other days. Following are the types of IBS based on the kind of irregular bowel movements experienced
- IBS with constipation (IBS-C)- Most bowel movements are hard and lumpy.
- IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)- Most bowel movements are loose and watery.
- IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)- Both lumpy and hard and loose and watery bowel movements occur on the same day.
Can you consult a gastroenterologist for irritable bowel syndrome?
If you are experiencing symptoms of IBS, your first step should be to consult your primary care physician or regular healthcare provider. They will consider your symptoms, medical history, and overall health to determine if there may be an underlying condition causing your symptoms.
Your healthcare provider or PCP may refer you to a gastroenterologist for further treatment in complex cases. A gastroenterology specialist usually manages patients with IBS, colorectal (colon) cancer, liver disease, swallowing and esophageal disorders, and pancreas disorders.
Gastroenterologists may perform additional tests, such as a colonoscopy or endoscopy, to help diagnose or rule out certain conditions. They can also help develop an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors.
It is important to seek professional help if you are experiencing any symptoms of digestive system disorders. If left untreated, these situations can worsen, leading to complications impacting your overall health and quality of life.
What kind of treatments do gastroenterologists recommend for constipation?
Constipation, marked by infrequent and difficult bowel movements, is diagnosed through a physical exam, a medical history review, and various other tests. These tests may include laboratory assessments, endoscopies like colonoscopy, imaging tests, and evaluations of stool movement, rectum, and anus function.
Initial treatment involves lifestyle changes, including incorporating a high-fiber diet and exercises in your daily routine. Gastroenterologists can further prescribe laxatives or stool softeners to help ease constipation. They may also recommend pelvic muscle training and surgery in specific cases.
Finding top gastroenterologists near you in Denver, CO
Gastroenterologists investigate, diagnose, and treat diverse diseases related to the digestive system. Finding a good gastroenterologist is essential to ensure good gut health.
Zocdoc helps connect patients with healthcare providers in the most efficient manner. Our extensive directory lets you browse a listing of qualified gastroenterologists in Denver. Zocdoc provides detailed information about healthcare providers, such as their qualifications, education, skills, and procedures they perform. The platform saves your time by allowing instant booking of appointments based on the doctor's real-time availability.
You can easily manage multiple insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision, on your Zocdoc account. Only one plan can be selected at a time when scheduling an appointment. If you have secondary insurance, note it in the booking section. You can add secondary insurance details online if your healthcare provider uses Zocdoc's intake forms. For any additional inquiries or guidance on managing insurance, Zocdoc's patient help center is available to assist you with all insurance-related concerns.
Our search filters allow you to choose gastroenterologists under your insurance provider's coverage. Instead of making endless calls to check for your in-network doctors, this can be done simply with a few clicks online.
The verified reviews by past patients will also help you make an informed decision; the authentic feedback can assure you of the experience you can have with the provider of your choice.
Booking appointments with gastroenterologists near you through Zocdoc is simple, secure, and free!
Statistics of GI and digestive diseases in Colorado, USA
According to a 2018 paper by NEJM Journal Watch, around $136 billion is spent annually in the US on healthcare expenditures for gastrointestinal diseases. This figure is much more than the amount spent on cardiovascular diseases, trauma care, or mental health. About 22 million people in the US visit a doctor for abdominal pain, and around 6 million end up in emergency care for the same reason—close to 5 million end up in emergency care for nausea and 3 million for diarrhea.
Per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases, an estimated 60 to 70 million people in the country are affected by digestive diseases. An average of 37.2 million people visit a physician annually to check for digestive issues. There are about 105 million ambulatory care visits owing to the same conditions and close to 0.2 million deaths. Close to 18 million endoscopy procedures are performed annually, which is quite a lot.
The most common age bracket for digestive and GI tract-based diseases is 50 to 75. The percentage of patients increases alarmingly with time, highlighting a growing need for more gastroenterologists.
In 2006, according to a study done in Colorado, 30% of adults over 50 had their stool samples tested for explained blood loss. The study published by Springer Link noted that in Colorado, there are about 2,100 new cases of colorectal cancer each year. Between 2013 and 2015, about 58% of the population in rural frontier counties reported undergoing at least one of the following procedures: proctoscopy, colonoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy.
Sources
American College of Gastroenterology
Medical News Today[1]
Medical News Today[2]
Healthline
WebMD[1]
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center for Biotechnology Information
NEJM Journal Watch
Springer Link
Cleveland Clinic
Mayo Clinic
WebMD[2]
