Yes, you should see a gastroenterologist if you experience persistent digestive issues that do not improve with over-the-counter treatments. A gastroenterologist specializes in the health of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas.
While many minor stomach issues can be managed at Sahara West Urgent Care, certain “red flag” symptoms require a specialist’s evaluation to rule out serious conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or colorectal cancer.
7 Signs It’s Time to See a Gastroenterologist
If you are experiencing any of the following, it is time to schedule a specialist consultation:
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Blood in Your Stool: Rectal bleeding or black, tarry stools can indicate hemorrhoids, but they may also be a sign of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or cancer.
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Persistent Abdominal Pain or Bloating: Frequent discomfort, especially after eating, may signal gallstones, pancreatitis, or celiac disease. You can learn more about specific types of lower right abdomen pain here.
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Chronic Heartburn (Acid Reflux): If you rely on antacids more than twice a week, you may have GERD, which can damage the esophagus over time.
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Unexplained Weight Loss: Dropping weight without trying is often a sign that your body isn’t absorbing nutrients correctly or could indicate a more serious underlying illness.
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Consistent Changes in Bowel Habits: Chronic constipation or diarrhea that lasts for weeks should be evaluated by a professional.
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Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Feeling like food is “stuck” in your throat or experiencing pain while swallowing requires immediate diagnostic imaging.
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Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes indicates a potential issue with your liver or bile ducts.
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The Diagnostic Process: Why an Evaluation is Required
Self-diagnosing digestive issues can be dangerous, as many symptoms overlap. To determine the root cause of your discomfort, a medical team will perform:
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Physical Examination: Assessing tenderness and checking vitals.
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Lab Work: Blood tests to check for inflammation, anemia, or liver enzyme levels.
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Imaging & Scopes: If symptoms are severe, a gastroenterologist may perform an endoscopy or colonoscopy to see the digestive tract directly.
Why Start at Sahara West Urgent Care?
While a gastroenterologist is necessary for long-term management of chronic disease, Sahara West Urgent Care is the ideal first step for acute digestive distress. We provide rapid evaluation and diagnostic testing to determine if your pain is an emergency or a chronic issue.
If your symptoms require specialized care, our providers can offer initial relief and help guide you to the right specialist. We prioritize your convenience and safety, ensuring you aren’t left guessing about your health.
Experiencing digestive discomfort right now? Skip the long wait for a specialist and visit Sahara West Urgent Care today. We offer walk-in appointments or you can book your visit online to get expert medical care immediately.
