It's common for people to experience digestive discomfort occasionally, whether it's due to the stomach flu, heartburn from a spicy meal, or simply eating something that doesn’t agree with them. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are familiar to most. However, there are times when these issues may require the expertise of a specialist—a gastroenterologist. If you've noticed significant changes in your bowel habits or symptoms like rectal bleeding, it may be time to seek professional help. Keep reading to learn more about what the best gastroenterologists in Maryland do and when you should consider scheduling an appointment.

Signs You Should Schedule a Consultation with a Gastro

There are several key signs that suggest it’s time to consult a gastroenterologist for your digestive health. While many digestive issues resolve on their own, some persistent symptoms require medical attention. Below are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for a specialist's care:

Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, may feel like a lump in your throat or cause pain when swallowing. This could signal esophageal damage or a narrowing of the esophagus (stricture). An endoscopy is often used to evaluate these symptoms.

Frequent Heartburn

Occasional heartburn is normal, but frequent episodes may indicate acid reflux or GERD. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, often due to a malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Diagnosis typically involves patient interviews, especially if over-the-counter treatments have failed, and sometimes an endoscopy.

Abdominal Bloating or Pain

While occasional bloating is generally harmless, sudden bloating accompanied by abdominal pain could suggest an issue. Persistent bloating, along with blood in the stool or painful bowel movements, may point to conditions like IBS, celiac disease, GERD, IBD, or gallbladder problems.

Chronic Constipation

Constipation can be caused by dehydration or too much dairy, but chronic constipation is more serious. Having fewer than three bowel movements per week, especially with hard-to-pass stools or straining, may be linked to conditions such as colorectal cancer, intestinal blockage, or colon narrowing. A colonoscopy is often used for diagnosis.

Persistent Diarrhea

Diarrhea typically resolves on its own, but frequent or long-lasting episodes warrant medical attention. Chronic diarrhea could be a sign of IBS, IBD, celiac disease, or parasitic infections. If it persists for over a month, particularly with fever or dehydration, see a gastroenterologist.

Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding, whether mild or severe, should always be evaluated by a GI specialist. While it may be caused by hemorrhoids, it could also indicate more serious conditions like polyps, ulcers, or IBD, especially in people over 40.

Excessive Gas

Gas is a normal part of digestion, but excessive gas could be a symptom of conditions like IBD, GERD, or celiac disease. If it’s accompanied by bloody stools, abdominal pain, muscle aches, or fever, consult your doctor. Here at Bowie Internal Medicine, we have some of the best gastroenterologists in Maryland who can help you find relief.

Unexplained Weight Loss

If you lose more than 5% of your body weight over six months without trying, it may be a sign of liver cirrhosis, IBD, peptic ulcers, or pancreatitis. Unexplained weight loss often occurs alongside extreme fatigue.

Pale or Light-Colored Stools

A single pale stool isn’t usually a concern, but if your stool remains light-colored for several days, it could point to gallbladder disease, liver problems, or issues with the pancreas.

Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)

Yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice, is often a sign of liver disease. If you notice this symptom, contact your doctor immediately.

Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcers can cause nausea, a burning sensation in the esophagus, bloody stools, and abdominal pain. They can occur in the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the upper small intestine (duodenal ulcer) and may be caused by factors like smoking or stress. If you suspect a peptic ulcer, speak with your gastroenterologist.

Best Gastroenterologists in Maryland

Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any conditions you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventative care. For more information about treating polyps, pleasecontact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.