How a Gastroenterologist Diagnoses and Treats Common Stomach Problems

A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system, which includes the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and esophagus. When patients experience common stomach problems such as abdominal pain, indigestion, bloating, nausea, or changes in bowel habits, they often seek the expertise of a gastroenterologist to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. The diagnostic process begins with a detailed medical history where the doctor asks about symptoms’ onset, duration, severity, and any factors that worsen or relieve them. This information helps narrow down potential causes and guides further evaluation.

Next comes a physical examination aimed at detecting signs like tenderness or swelling in the abdomen. Based on initial findings, the gastroenterologist near me may order laboratory tests to check for infections or inflammation through blood work or stool analysis. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans provide visual insights into structural abnormalities within the digestive tract. One of the most important tools used by gastroenterologists is endoscopy-a procedure involving a flexible tube with a camera inserted through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach lining, and upper small intestine directly. Endoscopy allows for biopsy collection if suspicious areas are found during inspection.

Sherman Gastroenterologist

Common conditions diagnosed include gastritis (inflammation of stomach lining), peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or medication use like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), acid reflux disease characterized by heartburn and regurgitation due to malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter muscles; irritable bowel syndrome presenting with alternating diarrhea and constipation; celiac disease where gluten triggers immune response damaging intestinal lining; and gallstones causing pain from blocked bile ducts.

Treatment depends on diagnosis but generally aims at relieving symptoms while addressing root causes. For bacterial infections such as H. pylori-related ulcers, antibiotics combined with acid-suppressing medications promote healing effectively. Lifestyle modifications including dietary changes-avoiding spicy foods or alcohol-and weight management play significant roles in managing acid reflux and functional gastrointestinal disorders like IBS. In some cases where medication fails to control severe symptoms or complications arise such as bleeding ulcers or strictures narrowing digestive passages surgery might be necessary.

Throughout care delivery professionals emphasize patient education about symptom monitoring along with adherence to prescribed therapies ensuring long-term success in managing chronic conditions affecting digestion. Regular follow-ups enable adjustments based on progress observed via repeat testing when indicated thereby preventing complications early while maintaining quality of life for individuals experiencing stomach problems under specialized care from gastroenterologists who blend clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic technology tailored specifically toward digestive health challenges faced daily by many people worldwide seeking relief from discomfort related to their gastrointestinal systems.

Joseph Kim, M.D.
204 Medical Dr #240, Sherman, TX 75092
469-800-4500