Posted on 15th July, 2023 at 7:43:22 AM
Stomach problems plague us all from time to time. This could be a mild case of food poisoning or a case of acute irritable bowel syndrome. You never know which stomach ache is serious and which isn’t. Hence, the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata, Dr Amitabha Saha gives you 5 scenarios or cases, when you should make a visit to a doctor a priority.
Check out these 5 cases when it is absolutely vital to see a gastroenterologist.
5 Cases It’s Vital to Make a Visit to the Gastroenterologist
Here are 5 cases where it is necessary for you to visit a gastroenterologist.
Case 1: Ongoing diarrhoea or constipation
Chronic diarrhoea can be an indication of a few different digestive disorders like IBS, IBD or SIBO. IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is typically the most common diarrhoea symptom. There are many treatment options available for these. Moreover, less than three bowel movements per week are considered constipation. The GI specialist can recommend treatment for you.
Case 2: Feeling unusually bloated
Bloating can be caused due to gas being trapped in the colon. Moreover, there can be other causes of bloating such as constipation, IBS, and food sensitivity such as lactose intolerance, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial growth) or gastroparesis (partial paralysis of the stomach).
Case 3: Frequent or severe heartburn
Frequent or severe heartburn can be a cause of GERD, a condition that causes permanent damage to the oesophagus. This can cause oesophageal cancer in the long run, ulcers or problems that lead to swallowing.
Case 4: Sudden or severe abdominal pain
A sudden bellyache that comes on and lasts for a few painful hours is something that should make you visit the doctor. A stomach or peptic ulcer is a sore on the lining of your stomach which can be a potential cause. Moreover, it can also be a cause of gallstones, pancreatitis, or liver disease.
Case 5: Blood in stool
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stools could be an indication of hemorrhoids. People usually treat hemorrhoids with any over-the-counter medication. However, it is best to consult with a doctor as the symptom may also be indicative of colorectal cancer. Also, a gastroenterologist can help you with the medication and treatment as well.
