Your doctor will press down on the skin around your belly. They'll listen for odd bowel sounds and feel for any masses or tenderness. They may ask you to take deep breaths or cough during your exam. They might also put a finger into your rectum to feel for any bulges or masses, and to check the muscle tone.
How long does a GI procedure take?
The upper GI endoscopy most often takes between 15 and 30 minutes. The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing, and many people fall asleep during the procedure.
An endoscopy is not usually painful, but it can be uncomfortable. Most people only have mild discomfort, similar to indigestion or a sore throat. The procedure is usually done while you're awake. You may be given a local anaesthetic to numb a specific area of your body.
What conditions does a gastroenterologist treat?
It includes common and important conditions such as colon polyps and cancer, hepatitis, gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), peptic ulcer disease, colitis, gallbladder and biliary tract disease, nutritional problems, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and pancreatitis.
What does a gastroenterologist do on first visit?
At your first appointment, your gastroenterologist will speak with you about your medical history, symptoms, and any recent treatments you've had. Depending on your age, they may recommend certain preventative treatments, such as a colonoscopy, which can help prevent colorectal cancer.
What are the most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?
- Abdominal discomfort (bloating, pain or cramps)
- Unintentional weight loss.
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Acid reflux (heartburn)
- Diarrhea, constipation (or sometimes both)
- Fecal incontinence.
- Fatigue.
- Loss of appetite.
What does a gastroenterologist check for?
Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat digestive disorders including liver disease, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, and cancers. Typically, the gastroenterologist starts by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam to find out if they can see, hear, or feel anything unusual.