GASTROENTEROLOGY
About Gastroenterology
When it comes to matters involving your digestive tract, stomach, and colon, a gastroenterologist is the doctor to consult with. GI specialists diagnose potential problems that stand in the way of your body’s ability to comfortably and easily digest food, move it through the body and get rid of waste. It’s important that your gastrointestinal system is healthy so that your body absorbs the nutrition it needs for energy and vitality.
Gastroenterology FAQ
Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a very common condition that may be bothersome, painful, and contribute to a poor quality of life. Only a small percentage of people develop complications from heartburn, but only your physician can help decide the right treatment for you. These complications can include ulcers, bleeding, Barrett’s esophagus (a “pre-cancerous” change in the esophagus) or esophageal cancer.
Ulcers are diagnosed with an upper endoscopy or an upper GI series.
Your colon needs to be clear of stool the day of your test. If you eat solid food the day prior to your test, your bowel is still processing the food and creating stool. If you have stool in your colon during the procedure, it impairs the doctor’s view, resulting in a possible repeat of the prep and test.