When To See A Gastroenterologist

Gastroenterologists are doctors who treat the lower and upper GI. If you have an issue with either or both of these areas, it can have a serious impact on your quality of life. If you are looking for a gastroenterologist in Rego Park, NY, you can count on the experienced physicians at Queens Boulevard Endoscopy Center to provide the services that you need.

You Have Unusual Bowel Issues

Everyone's bowels work a little differently. What is normal for you is not necessarily normal for someone else. You are the best judge of when things are not right. Consider seeing a gastroenterologist if:

• If you have an extended bout of uncontrolled diarrhea
• If your bowels are not moving
• If you have black rectal bleeding
• If you have a lot of red rectal bleeding

You Are 45 Years Old or Older

The American Cancer Society recommends that all adults with an average risk for colon cancer have their first colonoscopy at age 45. This recommendation is lower than the previous age of 50 because of an increase in the occurrence of colon cancer in younger adults. After the initial one, your gastroenterologist in Rego Park, NY will recommend when you should have your next one. It is dependent on the results of the test and if nothing is found, it is usually every 10 years. If the doctor finds polyps, the recommendation can be 5 years or less. 

You Have Blood in Your Vomit

Vomiting blood can have a few different causes but the majority of them require that you be seen by a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. If you have had a nose bleed or oral surgery, a wait-and-see approach may be acceptable. 

You Have Acid Reflux That Doesn’t Respond to OTC Medication

Acid reflux can be uncomfortable, and it may make you reluctant to eat certain foods or even food groups. If it is not responding to OTC medication, you need to go to see your gastroenterologist to get a diagnosis of the cause. Left untreated, it can damage the esophagus, which is serious. 

You Have Severe Stomach Pain

Severe stomach pain can have many causes, some much more serious than others. Depending on your pain tolerance and what happened in the time before the pain started, you may just want to go to the emergency room. Call your GI doctor's office and get an opinion of what the next step should be.  

If you require the services of a gastroenterologist in Rego Park, NY, contact Queens Boulevard Endoscopy Center at (718) 406-8000. Our experienced physicians provide a full range of GI diagnostic and treatment services.