What Is the Difference Between Gastrologist and Gastroenterologists?
At Digestive Disease Care DDC, we provide our patients with exceptional treatment options for a wide range of conditions in the NYC area. If you are seeking a board-certified gastroenterologist who can provide you with a precise diagnosis and effective treatment options, please contact us or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jamaica NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY and New Hyde Park NY.
Table of Contents:
Why would you need to see a gastroenterologist?
What does a gastrologist do?
Is gastroenterology and gastrointestinal the same?
What are the most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?
The gastrointestinal tract is a complex system of organs that work to digest food and eliminate waste from the body. Because it is such a complex system, there are medical professionals dedicated to keeping it in good health. These professionals are known as gastroenterologists, and they can effectively evaluate, diagnose and treat virtually every concern associated with the GI tract. They can also help prevent a number of common conditions and health concerns from arising.
The main reasons why you might need to see a gastroenterologist include:
Constipation — Less than three bowel movements a week are indicative of constipation, which may be caused by a serious digestive issue. Constipation can most often affect the older population, people who consume a diet low in fiber, and most notably, people who are dehydrated.
Diarrhea — On the other side of the spectrum, diarrhea is a condition marked by too many bowel movements, typically loose and watery. This can indicate an issue with digestion. Cramps are commonly associated with diarrhea. It is important to note that diarrhea that occurs regularly could indicate a more serious underlying condition, like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Consistent Heartburn — While occasional heartburn is quite common, consistent heartburn could be a sign of a larger issue like acid reflux, or GERD.
Gallstones — The culprit of stomach pain could be gallstones, which are hardened buildup of the digestive fluid that breaks down food. Sometimes the pain can last hours, however in most cases, this pain can come on suddenly and intensely. If this pain is consistently severe, the gallbladder might need to be removed, which would warrant a visit to a gastroenterologist.
Schedule a Colonoscopy — Experiencing symptoms is not always a prerequisite for visiting a gastroenterologist. In fact, these digestion doctors can also help prevent a number of gastroenterological issues with things like colonoscopy exams. These important examinations should be performed every 5-10 years for patients over the age of 50.
Ulcers — An ulcer, otherwise known as an open sore in the stomach or intestine, can manifest with burning stomach pain. The pain is caused by acid that breaks down food and can occur whenever a person with ulcers eats. If first-line measures like antacids are not providing relief, it is time to see a specialist.
Bloating — For those who consistently feel bloated after eating, or even experience pain, it could be caused by something in their diet. Gastroenterologists can help pinpoint the cause, such as if drinking milk causes a stomach ache.
Hemorrhoids — Even the name can make people feel uncomfortable. Hemorrhoids occur when the veins in the rectum become irritated and swell. It is a fairly common issue, and a gastroenterologist can treat it quickly and easily.
Blood in Stool — Blood in the stool is often a serious sign that something is awry. If you notice any rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, seek out care from a gastroenterologist.
A gastrologist is not a medical professional but is someone who cares for problems associated with the gastrointestinal tract with food and diet. The term ‘Gastrologist’ was used medically back in the early 1900s but has long since been replaced with ‘gastroenterologist,’ which is the official medical term for physicians who specialize in gastrointestinal conditions.
Gastrointestinal describes the digestive organs as full. Gastroenterology is the field of medicine that specializes in treating GI issues and is practiced by a gastroenterologist.
The most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders include:
• Bloating & Excess Gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Nausea & Vomiting
• Abdominal Pain
If you are experiencing problems with your gastrointestinal tract, trust the experienced gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Care DDC to help you resolve these issues. Our board-certified gastroenterologists are experienced in treating problems associated with the GI tract, including stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and will provide you with a higher level of care. We have convenient locations to serve you in Jamaica NY, Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Mineola NY, Lake Success NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY and BEYOND.
Additional Services You May Like
Additional Services You May Like
- Abdominal Pain
- Acid Reflux
- Barretts Esophagus
- Bloated Stomach
- Capsule Endoscopy
- Celiac Disease
- Colon Cancer Screening
- Colonoscopy
- Constipation
- Crohns Disease
- Diarrhea
- Diverticulitis
- Esophageal PH Monitoring
- Fatty Liver
- Fibroscan
- Gallstones
- Gastroenterologist
- Gastric Chest Pain
- Gluten Intolerance
- Hemorrhoid
- Hemorrhoid Banding
- Hepatitis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Lactose Intolerance
- Pancreatitis
- Polyps
- Rectal Bleeding
- Stomach
- Ulcerative Colitis
- GI Urgent Care