'Trust Your Gut': 7 Signs That You Need a Gastroenterologist

A leading group of U.S. tummy doctors wants Americans to get used to talking about their bowel symptoms, at least with their physicians.

People are hesitant to discuss digestive trouble with a medical professional, with one in three saying they would mention it only if their doctor brought it up first, according to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA).

Patients often wait until symptoms worsen or become severe before getting help. This may be partly because talking about bowel symptoms makes people uncomfortable, the AGA noted.

"We must normalize the conversation around uncomfortable GI [gastrointestinal] symptoms with our patients," said Dr. Rajeev Jain, a gastroenterologist in Dallas and AGA patient education advisor.

"That means enabling patients to know their normal, know what questions to ask, and shorten the time from the onset of symptoms to the patient-provider conversation," Jain added in an association news release.

The AGA's new "Trust Your Gut" campaign aims to get those discussions started.

When should you see a gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist with expertise in the disorders and diseases that affect the digestive system

The digestive disorders and issues that a gastroenterologist treats include:

Unexplained changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation and blood in the stool
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Heartburn
Hemorrhoids
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Pancreatitis
Ulcers

Here are seven signs that you may need to see a gastroenterologist:

1. Ongoing diarrhea

Is your stool more regularly liquid than solid? This is a tell-tale sign that it's time to schedule an appointment.

"Chronic diarrhea can be an indication of a few different digestive disorders, including IBS, IBD or small bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)," says Dr. Kerri Glassner, a gastroenterologist at Houston Methodist. "IBS is the most common cause of chronic diarrhea. Fortunately, there are many treatment avenues your doctor can use to help manage your symptoms."

2. Constipation

How often should you be having bowel movements? The truth is, it varies from person-to-person. However, if you have less than three bowel movements a week, you are likely constipated. Experiencing bowel movements that are very small, very hard or difficult to pass? This is also a sign that you are constipated.

"Constipation can have many causes and it can be hard to manage on your own at home," says Dr. Glassner. "A GI specialist can help determine the likely cause of your constipation and recommend the lifestyle changes and medications that can help make your bowel movements more regular."

4. Feeling unusually bloated

Bloating can be caused by a number of things and in some cases may not be a cause of concern. However, in most cases, bloating (which can feel like your belly is full or tight) is a result of excess gas production, and hypersensitivity to gas or gas being trapped in your colon.

"...Bloating can also be a sign of IBS, a food sensitivity such as lactose intolerance, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) or gastroparesis (partial paralysis of the stomach)," according to Dr. Glassner.

A gastroenterologist will help you get to the root of what is causing your bloating and the most effective way to treat it.

5. Sudden or severe abdominal pain

We've all experienced a stomach ache from time to time, but how do we know when it's a cause of concern?

"A stomach ulcer or peptic ulcer, which is a sore on the lining of your stomach or [the] first part of your small intestine can lead to burning abdominal pain, particularly after eating," says Dr. Glassner. "An untreated ulcer can cause swelling and scarring that blocks your digestive tract."

Consistently severe abdominal pain may also be a sign of gallstones, pancreatitis or liver disease.

6. Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool

Going to the bathroom and seeing blood in the toilet or on the toilet paper can cause you to worry. What could be wrong? This could be a sign that you have hemorrhoids, a fairly common issue. The good news is that hemorrhoids can typically be managed with at-home remedies or over-the-counter products.

However, in some cases, you may need more advanced treatments if over-the-counter treatments aren't working.

"Any time you see blood in your stool or have rectal bleeding that is accompanied by changes in your bowel habits or to the color or consistency of your stool, it's critical that you see a gastroenterologist," warns Dr. Glassner. "Rectal bleeding isn't always a huge concern, but it can be a sign of a serious medical condition such as colorectal cancer."

7. You're due for a colonoscopy

Are you over the age of 45 or have a strong family history of colorectal cancer? It's time to book your colonoscopy appointment. Black men and women are more likely to get colon cancer and die from the disease. Early detection can save your life.

Preparing for your appointment

At your first appointment, your gastroenterologist will:

Ask you about your digestive symptoms and medical history
Recommend any lifestyle changes or medications that can help relieve your symptoms
Discuss any tests, screenings or procedures that may be needed

To prepare for your upcoming appointment, make a list of all the symptoms you are experiencing and any questions you have. This will help your doctor figure out what is going on with you and determine the best method of treatment.