When Should You See a Gastroenterologist? 10 Warning Signs

Most tummy upsets settle on their own. But some symptoms should be checked by a gastroenterologist — a specialist in the digestive system, liver and pancreas.

See a specialist if you have:

1. Acidity or heartburn more than twice a week, or needing antacids regularly
2. Difficulty swallowing or food sticking in the chest
3. Blood in stool, black stools, or vomiting blood
4. A change in bowel habit lasting more than a few weeks
5. Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
6. Yellow eyes or dark urine (jaundice)
7. Fatty liver or raised SGPT on a routine test
8. Persistent abdominal pain or bloating
9. Iron-deficiency anaemia without an obvious cause
10. A family history of colon, stomach or liver cancer

When it is an emergency

Go to an emergency department immediately for vomiting large amounts of blood, fainting, severe abdominal pain, or confusion in someone with liver disease.

Not sure whether your symptoms need attention? Book a consultation — evening and Sunday slots are available.

Sources

• Digestive diseases – health information – NIDDK – U.S. National Institutes of Health
• Gastrointestinal bleeding – NIDDK – U.S. National Institutes of Health