When they refer their patients to Gastroenterology Doctors in Jacksonville FL primary care physicians are usually concerned about digestive system dysfunction. These specialists diagnose and treat everything from minor symptoms of gastric upset to serious, chronic conditions. Read on to find out about a few of the reasons that a patient may want to seek a referral to a gastroenterologist.
New Digestive Symptoms
When a patient begins to experience new symptoms of digestive upset, he or she will almost always be referred to a specialist for diagnosis. These specialists focus not just on the more commonly-recognized organs in the digestive tract like the stomach and the small intestine, but also treat diseases and disorders of the esophagus, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. Any patient who is showing symptoms that indicate problems with one of these organs will need to see a specialist.
Existing Conditions
Patients with existing conditions may be referred to gastroenterologists, as well. Those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease may need help managing flare-ups, for example. People with hepatitis, pancreatitis, or other disorders of the liver and pancreas may also be referred to doctors of gastroenterology.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
All patients over the age of 50 should be visiting gastroenterologists in Jacksonville FL for routine colonoscopies. These diagnostic tests are used to screen for colorectal cancer. Patients who are at higher risk for developing this form of cancer may have to begin going in for colonoscopies at a younger age as determined by their primary care doctors and they will also be referred to gastroenterologists.
Common Conditions
In addition to screening for, diagnosing, and treating the conditions mentioned above, gastroenterologists also treat many other common and uncommon conditions. These include heartburn, ulcers, celiac disease, hemorrhoids, and polyps. Basically, any condition that impacts any of the organs involved in digestion will likely require treatment from a gastroenterology specialist. Contact Digestive Disease Consultants for better digestive upset treatment.
Get Help Now
Looking for Gastroenterology Doctors in Petal MS patients can trust to provide an accurate diagnosis and all the most up-to-date treatment options? Hattiesburg G.I. Associates can help. Click Here to learn more about this local practice or call today to schedule a visit for a consultation with a gastroenterologist.