Specialty Guides
When to See a Gastroenterologist
Digestive symptoms that warrant a GI specialist — and what colonoscopy screening guidelines now say.
What a GI doctor treats
Gastroenterologists treat conditions of the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. They also perform upper endoscopy and colonoscopy.
See a GI doctor if you have
- Heartburn or reflux symptoms more than twice a week
- Persistent abdominal pain or bloating
- Blood in stool or black/tarry stools
- Unexplained change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea) lasting weeks
- Difficulty swallowing or unintentional weight loss
- Abnormal liver enzymes
- Family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease
Colon cancer screening
Most adults at average risk should begin colon cancer screening at age 45. Options include colonoscopy every 10 years, stool DNA tests every 3 years (Cologuard), or FIT testing yearly. Talk with your doctor about which is right for you, especially if you have a family history.
Preparing for endoscopy or colonoscopy
Both are outpatient procedures done with sedation. You'll need a driver. Prep — especially for colonoscopy — is the hardest part; follow the instructions exactly.