8 Gastrointestinal Conditions a GI Doctor Treats

Gastrointestinal (GI) conditions can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to serious health challenges. Patients experiencing persistent digestive issues may benefit from specialized care. GI doctors, also known as gastroenterologists, are trained to diagnose and manage these conditions. If you’re dealing with ongoing GI problems, understanding what a GI doctor does and the conditions they treat may help you decide when to seek their expertise.

What Is a GI Doctor? 

A gastroenterologist specializes in diagnosing, managing, and treating conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. This includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and colon. GI doctors undergo extensive training to understand these complex systems and related disorders. Patients visit these doctors to address a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild indigestion to more severe issues such as chronic pain and abnormal bowel habits. 

What Conditions Do They Treat? 

GI doctors treat numerous conditions impacting the digestive system. Here are eight conditions they manage:

1. Colorectal Cancer 

Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and is one of the most diagnosed cancers worldwide. Symptoms can include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, and unexplained weight loss. 

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) 

IBS is a functional disorder that causes abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be influenced by diet, stress, and gut sensitivity. 

3. Barrett’s Esophagus 

Barrett’s esophagus often results from chronic acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Damage to the esophageal lining can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer over time if left unmanaged. 

4. Esophageal Cancer 

Esophageal cancer affects the lining of the esophagus and is often associated with smoking, heavy alcohol use, or long-term acid reflux. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or unintentional weight loss. 

5. Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the lower rectum and anus. They can lead to discomfort, bleeding, or itching and may be caused by factors such as straining during bowel movements or prolonged sitting. 

6. Diverticulitis 

Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, in the colon become inflamed or infected. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. 

7. Hepatitis 

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by viral infections, alcohol use, or autoimmune conditions. Types such as hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common, each with its own course of treatment. 

8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 

IBD is a term for chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These autoimmune disorders cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. 

When Should You See a Gastroenterologist? 

You might visit a GI doctor if you experience persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits that last longer than a few weeks. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are also encouraged for certain age groups and individuals with a family history of gastrointestinal diseases. For chronic and advancing symptoms, a GI specialist can provide targeted solutions that improve quality of life and help manage underlying conditions. 

Learn More Today 

Gastrointestinal conditions are varied and often complex, but working with a GI doctor may make a difference. Whether it’s managing chronic reflux, diagnosing liver disorders, or screening for colorectal cancer, they provide expert care for a wide array of digestive health concerns. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing GI symptoms, make an appointment with a specialist. Their expertise can provide treatment options and better health outcomes.