A gastroenterologist, or “GI Doctor,” is a physician specialist with extensive training in diseases of the digestive tract. The digestive tract consists of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas and gallbladder. After completing medical school and a 2-3 year internal medicine residency program, a gastroenterologist completes a 2-4 year fellowship program which ensures the physician is uniquely and highly qualified to diagnose and treat disorders of the digestive tract. Gastroenterologists often employ mid-level providers (Physician Assistants or Nurse Practitioners) who also focus on digestive health to assist in ordering/performing tests, diagnostic decision making, answering your questions, and recommending the best course of treatment.
Common Conditions Diagnosed & Treated By a GI Specialist:
- Colorectal Cancer Screening & Early Detection
- Hepatitis & Its Various Causes
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis)
- Diverticulosis & Diverticulitis
- Celiac Disease & Other Food Intolerances Including Lactose Intolerance
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Barrett’s Esophagus
- Esophageal Stricture & Esophageal Motility Problems
- Gastroparesis
- Bowel Function Disorders (Constipation, Diarrhea, Incontinence of Bowel, Gas & Bloating)
- Anal & Rectal Problems (Hemorrhoids, Anal Fissures & Other Sources of Rectal Pain and Bleeding)
- Microscopic Colitis
- Iron Deficiency Anemia
- Peptic Ulcer Disease & H. pylori Infection
- Acute & Chronic Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder & Biliary Disease
- Cirrhosis & Its Various Causes
- GI Infections
- Hiatal Hernia
- Fatty Liver Disease
- Various Other Disorder...