Considering the number of times we eat or drink substances throughout the day, digestive system issues are bound to come often. Most of these uncomfortable issues go away after some time, but some may not. These issues can persist, leading you to need to see an Austin gastroenterologist. These professionals have expertise in dealing with digestive problems. You can find out more about them as they are highlighted below.
What isGastroenterology?
This branch of medicine deals with the disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and the liver. The esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus are all parts of the GI tract. The liver is found on the upper right-hand side of the abdomen. It is used for filtering the blood, producing bile, and storing glycogen.
Most people with GI problems have stomach pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, or feeling sick.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which affects about 10–15 percent of the population, is the most common condition that doesn’t hurt anyone. IBS is a long-term issue that causes pain in the stomach, bloating, diarrhea, and trouble going to the bathroom. No one knows what makes IBS, but it is thought to be a mix of psychological and physical factors.
Cancer of the digestive tract is the most common disease that can kill you. Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus are all types of GI cancer. These cancers are often asymptomatic in the early stages, so it is vital to be aware of the risk factors and to see a doctor if any symptoms develop.
The most common risk factors for gastrointestinal cancer are age, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and a family history of the disease. Various treatments are available for gastrointestinal disorders, depending on the specific condition.
Treatment options
Changes in lifestyle, like eating healthy foods and working out regularly, can help prevent or treat many GI problems.
Medication can be used to treat the symptoms of some conditions, such as IBS, and to prevent or treat the complications of others, such as ulcers.
Surgery is sometimes necessary to treat conditions that do not respond to other treatments, such as cancer.
Who is a gastroenterologist?
This physician treats problems with the digestive system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. In addition to treating these disorders, a gastroenterologist may perform preventive screenings, such as colonoscopies, to detect cancer or other problems early.
The most common operations performed by a gastroenterologist are upper endoscopies and colonoscopies. During an upper endoscopy, a gastroenterologist inserts a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera through your mouth and into the stomach. This allows the gastroenterologist to visualize these organs’ linings and look for any abnormalities, such as ulcers, inflammation, or tumors.
Gastroenterology is a complex and fascinating branch of medicine that is constantly evolving. New treatments and diagnostic techniques are being developed, and there is always more to learn about the gastrointestinal tract and the liver. If you are considering seeing a gastroenterologist, check our website, or call our offices in Austin, TX.
