Gastroenterology is an area of medicine focused on the health of the digestive system and liver. Gastroenterologists treat everything from irritable bowel syndrome to hepatitis C.

Here’s a look at what these specialists do and when you should consider seeing one.

Gastroenterology is a specialized area of medicine that focuses on the GI tract. Some gastroenterologists treat general diseases of the GI, while others focus on a particular type.

Some possible areas of emphasis are:

Gastroenterologists primarily diagnose and treat gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.

If your doctor notices an issue with your GI tract, they’ll likely recommend that you see a gastroenterologist for a more detailed assessment.

Gastroenterologists perform endoscopic procedures, in which they use specialized instruments to view the GI tract and make diagnoses.

They don’t perform surgery, but they may work closely with a GI surgeon. They primarily work in clinic or hospital settings.

Health conditions gastroenterologists can diagnose and treat

Gastroenterologists are trained to have an acute knowledge of:

  • the typical movement of food through the stomach and intestine
  • the absorption of nutrients
  • how waste is removed from the body
  • how the liver helps with the digestion process

This area of expertise allows them to diagnose issues such as:

Although the GI system includes the mouth, gastroenterologists generally don’t provide care or services for this area. Instead, dentists and dental specialists focus on the health of the oral cavity.

Gastroenterologists also differ from proctologists, specialists who treat diseases of the rectum and anus.

The requirements for becoming a gastroenterologist typically include:

  • a 4-year college degree
  • 4 years of medical school
  • a 3-year residency in internal medicine, which includes work and training alongside experienced gastroenterologists and professional mentorship

After you complete residency, you must complete a 2- or 3-year fellowship to receive more specialized training in this field. This includes training in endoscopy.

Once you’ve completed your training, you must pass a specialty certification exam for gastroenterologists. The American Board of Internal Medicine certifies you upon successful completion of the exam.

Gastroenterologists perform a range of nonsurgical procedures:

  • Upper endoscopy: helps diagnose conditions of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine
  • Endoscopic ultrasounds: examine the upper and lower GI tract and other internal organs
  • Colonoscopies: can detect colon cancer or colon polyps
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: identifies stones or tumors in the bile duct area
  • Sigmoidoscopy: evaluates blood loss or pain in the lower large bowel
  • Liver biopsy: which assesses inflammation and fibrosis in the liver
  • Capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy: examine the small intestine
  • Feeding tube insertion: for inserting feeding tubes in the abdomen

Your doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist if you:

  • have unexplained blood in your stool
  • have unexplained difficulty swallowing
  • are experiencing sudden or severe abdominal pain
  • are experiencing digestion issues, such as constant constipation or diarrhea
  • are experiencing constant acid reflux or heartburn
  • are due for a colonoscopy
  • feel unusually bloated

If you’re over the age of 45, you may also want to meet with a gastroenterologist for preventive care, as you may have an increased risk of colon cancer.

What happens at your first gastroenterologist visit?

If you’re seeing a gastroenterologist for the first time, be prepared to discuss with your gastroenterologist:

  • your digestive symptoms
  • your medical history
  • possible lifestyle changes or medications to help relieve your symptoms
  • tests or screenings you may need for a GI condition diagnosis

Can you eat before seeing a gastroenterologist?

You can eat before your gastroenterology appointment unless instructed otherwise.

If you’re receiving a diagnostic test or colonoscopy, for example, you shouldn’t eat beforehand.

What are the most common symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?

Common signs of a gastrointestinal disorder are:

  • stomach pain
  • heartburn
  • reflux
  • sudden or unusual changes in weight
  • changes in bowels
  • bloody stool

Gastroenterologists specialize in gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, polyps, and chronic heartburn.

They have 3 years of medical school and 5 to 6 years of additional training. They typically don’t perform surgeries, but they do perform endoscopic procedures, which can help diagnose and treat many GI conditions.

Your doctor will likely recommend that you visit a gastroenterologist if they notice something is off about your digestion, if you have stomach pain, or if certain blood tests come back with elevated levels.