Gastroenterology Frequently Asked Questions
Browse frequently asked questions about gastroenterology at Swedish Hospital below.
To schedule an appointment, call
773-907-3038.
Questions About Visiting the Gastroenterologist
Why would you need to see a gastroenterologist?
If you are over the age of 45, you should visit a gastroenterologist to have a screening colonoscopy. Other than this very important screening, you might choose to see a gastroenterologist if you are suffering with gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramping, pain, discomfort or sudden changes in bowel movements.
What should I expect at my first gastroenterologist appointment?
Your first gastroenterologist appointment will include a physical exam and a discussion of your symptoms, personal and family health history and dietary and exercise habits. From there, your gastroenterologist may recommend further testing or may be ready to discuss treatment options based on your condition.
Can I eat before a gastroenterology appointment?
Unless instructed otherwise, such as when undergoing a diagnostic test such as a colonoscopy, you are free to eat as you would normally prior to your gastroenterology appointment.
Do I need a referral to see a gastroenterologist?
You may need a referral to see a gastroenterologist. Always check with your insurance provider prior to making an appointment. We recommend seeing your primary care provider prior to seeing a gastroenterologist, as some conditions or symptoms can be treated by your primary care provider and they can best determine how to provide you with the care you need.
Questions About Digestive Health
What are the most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?
The most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders include stomach pain, significant heartburn or reflux, weight loss or gain, changes in bowels or blood in stool.
When should you see a gastroenterologist for acid reflux?
You should see a gastroenterologist for acid reflux when it is recurring, chronic or severe. Your primary care provider may be able to better determine whether it is recommended that you visit a gastroenterologist based on the severity and frequency of your symptoms.
What are the early warning signs of colon cancer?
Early signs of colon cancer may include blood in your stool, sudden or drastic changes to your bowel movements, weight loss or gain or pain or cramping. You can have colon cancer without experiencing any physical symptoms, so we highly recommend individuals 50 and older (or 45 and older if African American) have a colonoscopy screening.
General Questions About Gastroenterologists
What does a gastroenterologist do?
Gastroenterologist diagnose and treat mild to severe symptoms of the digestive system, including the stomach, liver, kidneys and colon. Because no two individuals are the same, treatments can range from dietary changes and the introduction of probiotics to colonoscopies and minimally invasive surgery.
What diseases do gastroenterologists treat?
Gastroenterologists can treat a variety of diseases related to the digestive system, including abdominal pain, acid reflux/GERD, Barrett’s esophagus, celiac disease, colitis, colonoscopy, Crohn’s disease, gallstones, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), liver disease, pancreatic disease and ulcerative colitis.
What tests does a gastroenterologist perform?
Screenings and tests performed by gastroenterologists include colonoscopies, EGD/upper GI endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasounds, liver biopsy, sigmoidoscopies, video capsule endoscopies, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and cholangioscopy.
Do gastroenterologists perform surgery?
Yes, gastroenterologists perform surgeries when necessary in order to treat some digestive disorders.
What procedures does a gastroenterologist do?
Gastroenterologists perform a number of diagnostic tests and medical treatments, including minimally invasive surgeries, colonoscopies, endoscopies and biopsies.
[h2] Contact Us
To schedule an appointment, call
773-907-3038.
