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What is meant by gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is the medical field focused on the function and diseases of the digestive system, including organs like the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver. It requires a deep understanding of how these organs work together to process food—such as moving materials through the digestive tract, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste—and how the liver plays its vital role in digestion.

This specialty covers a wide range of common conditions, including colon polyps, cancer, hepatitis, acid reflux (GERD), peptic ulcers, colitis, gallbladder disease, nutritional issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and pancreatitis. Essentially, any normal function or disease affecting the digestive system falls under the scope of gastroenterology.

Gastroenterologist vs hepatologist

A gastroenterologist has training in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. They specialize in conditions affecting the digestive system and organs such as the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, intestine, gallbladder, liver, and rectum. They can conduct colonoscopies, endoscopies, and certain other specific diagnostic tests to detect diseases. A gastroenterologist does not perform surgeries. They have to be certified in gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

A hepatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diseases of the gallbladder, bile duct, liver, and pancreas. A patient with chronic or acute liver disease may need the services of a hepatologist for treatment. You might have to see a hepatologist for cirrhosis, liver cancer, and fatty liver disease. They must pass the certification exam in transplant hepatology conducted by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Some common gastrointestinal diseases

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases are broadly categorized into structural and functional. In structural conditions, there will be a visible abnormality of the bowel, leading to inefficient digestive system functioning. GI diseases classified as structural include hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), stenosis, and colon cancer. Anal fissures, fistula, perianal abscesses, and diverticular disease are other examples. 

The disease is termed functional when the GI tract looks normal but does not move properly. Some examples of functional disorders include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, constipation, and gas. Diarrhea and GERD are also functional gastroenterological diseases.

Colorectal cancers, Crohn’s disease, hepatitis, liver cancer, and cirrhosis are gastrointestinal conditions that can manifest over a long period. These diseases have a higher mortality rate but can be caught early with regular screening tests.

Six types of diagnostic tests for gastrointestinal (GI) problems

A gastroenterologist makes use of different techniques to arrive at a diagnosis. They will first ask you questions about your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Your doctor will first conduct a simple physical exam and check your vitals. They will ask you to lie down and press your stomach and abdominal region to see any tenderness or masses. If your doctor does not find anything unusual, they might suggest one or more of the following procedures:

Fecal tests: A stool test is a standard diagnostic procedure for problems of the gastrointestinal tract or digestive system. You will have to give a stool sample, and the lab will test it for blood, infections, inflammation, or pancreatic function, depending on the conditions your doctor is checking for.

Breath test: As the term indicates, the lab will test your breath using specialized equipment and substances. This test can help detect the presence of stomach bacteria and conditions such as lactose intolerance.

Lower GI series: Also referred to as barium enema, barium is introduced into the body through the rectum in this test. An x-ray will then show any blockages or narrowing in the large intestine, the lower part of the small intestine.

Endoscopy: Different types of endoscopic procedures can identify specific conditions. Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy let your healthcare provider see the length and inside of the colon or the large intestine. Upper endoscopy gives your doctor a look at the stomach, esophagus, and duodenum. An ERCP checks the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and bile ducts.

Gastric manometry: Here, your doctor will pass a thin tube down your throat to get a look at your stomach. This test can see if your stomach is functioning as it should by measuring its muscular and electrical activity.

Barium beefsteak meal: In this test, you will eat a meal containing barium, a diagnostic liquid. As your stomach digests the meal, a radiologist will monitor it to see how long the digestive process takes. This test helps your doctor determine whether the gut is functioning well. This test can help detect problems that might not appear on a liquid barium x-ray.

When should you see a gastroenterologist?

Gastroenterologists can diagnose and treat various conditions affecting the internal organs of the digestive system. The main reasons why you should consider seeing a GI specialist near you include the following:

Unusual bloating

Bloating is when the belly feels tight or full. It happens due to excess gas production, gas trapped in the colon, or hypersensitivity to gas. Constipation can also cause bloating as waste stays in the colon for extended periods. Bloating is also a symptom of lactose intolerance, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, gastroparesis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterologists help detect the exact cause of bloating and provide effective treatment to cure the condition. 

Severe or sudden abdominal pain

Belly aches are common, but sudden and severe abdominal pain is a sign of an underlying condition. A peptic or stomach ulcer can cause burning abdominal pain. If untreated, stomach ulcers can cause scarring and swelling and even block the digestive tract. Continuous severe abdominal pain can also indicate liver disease, pancreatitis, or gallstones. Gastroenterologists can identify the exact cause of abdominal pain and provide appropriate treatment.

Diarrhea

Various factors can cause diarrhea, such as certain medications, infections, and foods. Chronic diarrhea can also indicate digestive disorders such as small bacterial overgrowth, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease. Irritable bowel syndrome is the predominant cause of chronic diarrhea. Gastroenterologists can effectively diagnose the condition and manage the symptoms. If your poop discharge has been consistently liquid and solid, you must see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

Severe heartburn

Occasional heartburn can be effectively managed at home and is not a concern. However, if you experience heartburn more than twice a week, it is a sign of GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease. If untreated, GERD can even cause permanent damage to the inner wall of the esophagus. The damage could cause painful ulcers and swallowing issues and increase the risk of esophageal cancer. See a gastroenterologist if you experience chronic severe heartburn symptoms. 

Constipation

The bowel movement frequency is different for every person. If the frequency is less than three times a week, it is considered constipation. People may feel constipated if the bowel movements are difficult to pass, solid or small. Gastroenterologists can identify the leading causes and recommend appropriate medications and lifestyle changes to regulate bowel movements. You must see a gastroenterologist if your bowel movements have been irregular for over a week.

Various treatment options offered by gastroenterologists

Gastroenterologists offer a variety of treatments tailored to your specific digestive condition, often combining different approaches to provide the best care. Here are some common treatments they may recommend:

Surgical procedures

For certain conditions, surgery or nonsurgical procedures may be necessary. These could include the removal of gallstones or bile stones, biliary stenting (to open up blocked bile ducts), or a polypectomy to remove colon polyps. These treatments can cure the condition or help manage it more effectively.

Medications

Depending on your diagnosis, your doctor might prescribe medications to relieve your symptoms or treat the underlying issue. These medications could range from antibiotics to antacids and anti-diarrhealsls and even include over-the-counter options like stool softeners, NSAIDs, laxatives, fiber supplements, or hemorrhoid creams, whatever is the best option in your case.

Diet and lifestyle changes

Sometimes, basic lifestyle adjustments can make an enormous difference in managing digestive health. Your gastroenterologist may recommend specific dietary changes, weight management strategies, exercise, and increased water intake to help control symptoms and improve overall health.

Combining these treatments, a gastroenterologist near you can help you find relief and maintain long-term digestive health.

How to improve your gut health?

Improve gut health with these simple steps:

• Manage stress: Incorporate stress-relief activities like meditation, walks, or yoga.
• Prioritize sleep: Aim to get at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep to support overall gut well-being.
• Eat mindfully: Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to reduce digestive discomfort.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water for gut bacteria diversity and to prevent constipation.
• Consider supplements: Explore prebiotics or probiotics under professional guidance for enhanced gut health.
• Address food intolerances: Identify and eliminate trigger foods causing symptoms like bloating or fatigue.
• Opt for a balanced diet: Reduce processed foods, prioritize fiber, and include polyphenol-rich options like fruits, vegetables, coffee, and tea.

The lifestyle mentioned above changes can positively impact gut health without leaning toward complex interventions.

What to expect on your first gastroenterologist’s appointment?

Your first appointment with a GI specialist near you, lasting 30 to 60 minutes, involves a face-to-face health history interview in a private setting. The interaction is crucial for the medical team to understand your health, lifestyle, and concerns, facilitating the development of an effective care plan.

The health history interview encompasses inquiries about your symptoms, their characteristics, and potential triggers. Your provider will discuss your overall health, ongoing medical treatments, prior GI-related surgeries or illnesses, and prescription and over-the-counter medications. Given the genetic component in many GI conditions, details about your family's history of digestive diseases are essential. Discussion with family members before the appointment is encouraged.

Your GI doctor will also review relevant medical information and records from other healthcare providers, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of your health status. A physical examination includes observation, palpation, and listening to your abdominal area. The doctor may perform a rectal exam, assessing muscle tone and detecting abnormalities, if necessary.

To further diagnose and guide treatment, your doctor may order tests such as blood and stool samples, X-rays, CT scans, colonoscopies, upper GI endoscopies, or barium swallow/enema procedures. The medical team may conduct some tests on the same day while scheduling follow-up appointments for others. The medical team will inform you about the procedures' indications, risks, and benefits and always encourage questions.

Find an experienced gastroenterologist near you in Tampa

The digestive system and gastrointestinal tract are prone to minor discomforts such as heartburn, bloating, and mild stomach aches. When these symptoms persist for days or worsen, it is essential to approach a doctor. A gastroenterologist specializes in GI tract, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas issues.

We at Zocdoc understand how important it is to find an experienced and qualified specialist when you have health problems that need resolution. Knowing this, we have compiled an extensive database of medical practitioners nationwide. We use advanced technology to help you get excellent medical care with minimum effort. 

Use the location, specialty, and insurance coverage filters to get a list of medical doctors who match your requirements. Afterward, you can check their profiles to know their credentials and see if they are board-certified. You can also peruse their educational qualifications and experience. A board-certified doctor will have received all the necessary training before clearing the exam.

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If you don't see your plan, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card (this works for medical insurance only, not vision or dental). Our team will review it and match you with the correct plan. If you have any issues uploading your card, contact our support team—they're happy to help. For more insurance information, please visit Zocdoc's patient help center.

Read patient reviews to find out if the particular practitioner meets your requirements. If you are unsatisfied with what you read, move on to the following profile. Once you have vetted the practitioners to satisfaction, you can schedule an appointment with the best gastroenterologist near you. 

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Gastrointestinal disease statistics in Tampa

In the United States, 1.8% of adults, or about 4.5 million, have been diagnosed with liver disease. The number of deaths per 100,000 people is reportedly 15.7. For the state of Florida, the death rate is 13 per 100,000 people. While below the national average, this is still causing concern as liver disease can develop into liver cancer or cirrhosis when left untreated.

Chronic liver disease or cirrhosis is among the top ten causes of death in Florida, and statistics show that the death rate for chronic liver disease or cirrhosis is 13 per 100,000. In 2020, the comparable death rate for Hillsborough County was 11.1, putting it close to the state average. The death rate for liver cancer in Hillsborough County is 7, compared to the state average of 6.2.

Sources

WebMD

Yale Medicine

Cleveland Clinic

University of Rochester Medical Center

Johns Hopkins Medicine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Florida Health Charts

Houston Methodist

Healthline

SIU Medicine

American College of Gastroenterology

verywellhealth

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.