See_A_GI_ts

8 Signs It's Time to See a Gastroenterologist

By , MD, Gastroenterologist, Virtua Gastroenterology 
 
An order of buffalo wings that isn't sitting right. A morning cup of coffee that runs right through you. That extra slice of pepperoni sending hot, burning fire up your throat.

Digestive issues are pretty common. We've all been there, and it's never fun. But knowing the difference between the occasional tummy ache and something more serious could make all the difference in the world.

If these 8 scenarios apply to you, it might be time to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist.

  1. Consistent Diarrhea
    Diarrhea comes in many forms. And you know it when you see it. But if it lasts for longer than two days without improvement, a GI can help.

  2. Chronic Constipation
    The opposite of diarrhea, constipation is typically defined by less than three bowel movements per week. But if this sounds routine to you, it could be caused by a lingering digestive issue.

  3. Painful Heartburn
    To be fair, heartburn never feels good. But if it's keeping you up at night and is a consistent occurrence, a GI can find the cause and recommend a treatment plan.

  4. Bloody Poop
    Blood in your stool is never good. If your bowel movements are black or red in color, contact a GI to get to the bottom of it. 

  5. Difficulty Swallowing
    If you're having trouble swallowing liquids or food, or feel like there's something caught in your throat – a GI will examine your esophagus to discover the cause.

  6. Sudden Weight Loss or Gain
    It's important to recognize intended weight changes from unintended ones. And if you've noticed an unexplained 10-pound difference in either direction, something could be up.

  7. Noticeable Bloating
    Food babies are for real (darn you, carbs). But if you're experiencing persistent bloating after eating, to the point where it hurts for a significant amount of time – a GI can pinpoint the cause.

  8. You're 45 or Older
    Regardless of digestive issues, everyone age 45 or older should schedule a colonoscopy. Did you know that a colonoscopy is the only screening that can actually prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps? To schedule your colonoscopy, click here

We know that digestive issues can be a bit awkward to talk about. But here's the thing: We have seen everything.

It's what we do, and we're happy to do it. At the end of the day, our goal is to make sure everything is running smoothly, literally. Request a consultation and meet with our gastroenterology team


Updated October 19, 2021

Schedule an Annual Exam Today at Virtua with a Primary Care Doctor

Schedule a Consultation

Make an appointment with a Virtua digestive health specialist. Call to find a doctor near you or schedule an appointment online.

888-VIRTUA-3 888-VIRTUA-3 Live Chat

You may also like

Real Talk for Men presentation thumbnail

Real Talk...for Men!

In this Real Talk! session, host Nicole Michalik from 92.5 XTU chats with Virtua primary care physician, Richard Levine and gastroenterologist, Christopher Morrison – about everything men need to know to master their health.

Watch Video
Couple Cooking Together

4 Tips for Living with a Digestive Disorder

Digestive disorders can be uncomfortable, but they don’t have to control your life. Diet and lifestyle changes can ease your symptoms and manage your condition.

Read More
female patient with Crohn's Disease

Sarah Wins Back Her Health After Crohn's Disease Diagnosis

Sarah Campbell won the Mrs. New Jersey International 2021 title just months after being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and undergoing bowel surgery.

Read More
Showing 3 of 40