Gastrointestinal Disorders Specialist

What are gastrointestinal disorders?

Gastrointestinal disorders include abnormalities in your digestive tract (gastrointestinal tract). These disorders might involve your esophagus, stomach, or small or large intestine. Examples of common GI problems include:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Colorectal cancer
• Lactose intolerance
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Diverticular disease
• Hemorrhoids
• Colitis
• Indigestion
• Celiac disease
• Gallstones
• Crohn's disease

Symptoms of GI problems can make everyday tasks feel uncomfortable. See the Maniya Health team at the first sign of a gastrointestinal disorder.

What are the risk factors for GI disorders?

Gastrointestinal disorders can happen to anyone, but some factors increase your risk. Examples include a family history of GI problems, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, pregnancy, and smoking. 

Other risk factors include taking certain medications, a low-fiber diet, eating fatty or fried foods, consuming alcohol or coffee, stress, and changes in your routine.

What are the symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders?

Common symptoms associated with gastrointestinal disorders, including GERD, are as follows:

• Intestinal pain or discomfort
• Heartburn after eating
• Chest pain
• Swallowing problems
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Changes in your stool
• Blood in the stool
• Gas or bloating
• Cramping
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Unexplained weight loss

Complications that can develop with untreated gastrointestinal problems include worsening symptoms, cancer, open sores, nutritional deficiencies, anemia, and more.

How does my provider diagnose gastrointestinal disorders?

To find out if you have a gastrointestinal disorder, the Maniya Health team reviews your medical history and symptoms. They check your vital signs, complete a physical exam, and might recommend you undergo blood tests, a colonoscopy, an upper endoscopy, X-rays, or other imaging procedures.

What are my treatment options?

Treatment options for a gastrointestinal disorder depend on the type and severity of the GI problem you experience. Your primary care specialist may suggest one of the following solutions:

• Diet changes
• Regular exercise
• Other lifestyle changes
• Weight loss
• Medications
• Further diagnostic testing
• Minor surgical procedures

Your provider personalizes each treatment to reduce (or eliminate) your symptoms and give you a better quality of life. They can refer you to highly trained specialists as needed.

Don’t live with unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms or serious GI problems when simple treatments are within reach at Maniya Health. Book an appointment by phone or request one online today.