Parkview Bryan Hospital: 419-630-2021
Parkview Archbold Medical Center: 419-446-3019
Do you experience frequent abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea or vomiting? If so, you may have a digestive health disorder. Your family doctor may recommend dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes or prescription drugs to prevent your symptoms from worsening. In some cases, they may run tests to determine your condition and recommend treatment. Some gastrointestinal (GI) conditions require more specific care than your family doctor can provide; in this case, you will be referred to a Gastroenterologist.
Common symptoms of digestive health disorders:
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Bleeding in the GI tract
- Constipation and diarrhea
- Stomach ulcers
- Trouble swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting
Severe symptoms could indicate one of these GI disorders:
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a digestive disorder that affects your stomach and esophagus. While it’s common for people to suffer from heartburn or acid reflux once in a while, having symptoms daily or two to three times a week could be a sign of GERD. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call now to schedule your appointment.
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Acid reflux
- Bad breath
- Heartburn
- Tooth erosion
- Trouble swallowing
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of digestive orders, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, that causes inflammation in the intestines.
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Anemia
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight fluctuation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a digestive disorder that does not cause permanent damage or lead to severe disease, but can be a major disruption in people’s lives. Often, IBS can be treated with lifestyle changes. If you have these persistent symptoms, call our Gastroenterology Clinic to schedule your appointment.
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Bloating
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Cramping
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a serious digestive disorder triggered by consuming gluten, a protein that is commonly found in wheat, barley and rye. If you are experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor.
- Anemia
- Depression
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fatigue
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Weight fluctuation
Colon Cancer Screening
You should see a gastroenterologist if you have any of the digestive health disorder symptoms above or if you need to schedule a colon cancer screening. A colonoscopy is a safe and effective examination that helps to detect and prevent colon cancer and other colorectal conditions. Colon cancer is treatable, and early detection improves your chances of a full recovery. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at the age of 45. Depending on family history, you may need to schedule your screening sooner. Consult with your primary care provider about the best timing for you.
In addition to screening for colorectal cancer and polyps, there are a number of GI treatments available at the Gastroenterology Clinic at Parkview Bryan Hospital and Parkview Archbold Medical Center. This includes abdominal pain, reflux (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, celiac disease, anemia, IBS, malabsorption, pancreatic disorders and many others.
Schedule your appointment now!
Parkview Bryan Hospital: 419-630-2021
Parkview Archbold Medical Center: 419-446-3019