Should I Visit a Stomach Doctor?
Nearly everyone has experienced a stomach ache before, whether it's from eating too much or contracting the dreaded "stomach flu." As abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of ailments and diseases, it can be difficult to know when you should contact an expert for advice. Our team of stomach doctors, or gastroenterologists, at Queens Boulevard Endoscopy Center in Rego Park, NY, want their patients to understand the potential reasons for their stomach pain and when it's necessary to be seen by a professional.
Common stomach ailments
The digestive system is complex and there are many other organs that are located nearby. Pain in this area can range from mild to severe, sharp to dull. It isn't always easy to pinpoint the cause of your stomach pain, but it's often due to a virus that also frequently causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. People who are lactose intolerant or have another food allergy may experience stomach pain from ingesting something that their immune system perceives as a threat. Indigestion, also known as heartburn, is another common cause for stomach pain; it often occurs after eating spicy or fatty foods and may worsen upon lying down.
When to see a doctor
In general, any degree of persistent abdominal pain that doesn't resolve within a week or so warrants a trip to your Rego Park stomach doctor. This is especially true if you have other symptoms such as loss of appetite, changes in bowel or urination habits, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, or extreme fatigue. Sudden and debilitating pain in your chest or stomach should be treated as an emergency.
If you've had stomach pain that isn't getting better on its own, it's time to see a gastroenterologist. To make an appointment with one of our stomach doctors at Queens Boulevard Endoscopy Center, contact our office in Rego Park, NY, today!
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