GastroenterologistForest Hills, NY
A gastroenterologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions related to the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. This type of care can identify issues early, as well as manage chronic gastrointestinal diseases effectively. A gastroenterologist uses advanced tools and techniques, such as endoscopy and colonoscopy, to deliver both preventive and therapeutic care. Routine visits and screenings can help prevent serious complications and support better digestive health in the long term.
At Pinnacle Gastroenterology, our team personalizes care based on each patient’s symptoms, history, and risk factors. From routine screenings to complex disease management, we work to improve your digestive health and quality of life. Call our Forest Hills, NY office at (718) 747-9630 today to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
What Does a Gastroenterologist Do?
A gastroenterologist focuses on treating disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. This specialist uses tools such as endoscopy, imaging, and lab testing to make accurate diagnoses. Through these tests, they can uncover conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and colorectal cancer.
Working with a gastroenterologist ensures the treatment targets the source of the condition and symptoms. In addition to diagnosing problems, they can develop customized treatment plans that may include dietary changes and medication. For chronic conditions, ongoing care can help reduce flare-ups and improve daily function.
"A gastroenterologist focuses on treating disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder."
When To See a Gastroenterologist: Signs and Symptoms
A gastroenterologist can help evaluate a wide range of symptoms that affect the digestive tract. Some common signs that indicate the need for a visit include:
- Frequent abdominal pain or cramping
- Persistent bloating or acid reflux
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea, constipation, or diarrhea
- Blood in the stool or dark-colored stools
Identifying these signs early can lead to faster diagnosis and better health outcomes. A gastroenterologist can help narrow down what could be causing the symptoms and create a care plan to relieve them. They can even evaluate symptoms that are often overlooked, such as fatigue and nutritional deficiencies.
"A gastroenterologist can help narrow down what could be causing the symptoms and create a care plan to relieve them."
Preventive Care and Screenings
Preventive care is a core part of gastroenterology and helps detect potential concerns before symptoms develop. Early detection can give the patient access to a greater variety of treatment options. Further, routine screenings and regular follow-ups help support long-term gastrointestinal health and reduce the risk of future complications.
A colonoscopy is one of the most common preventive screenings done by gastroenterologists, as it can detect colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal problems. The American Cancer Society recommends them for patients age 45 and older to identify and remove polyps before they become cancerous. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or similar risk factors may need screenings earlier or more often.
A gastroenterologist may also recommend testing for conditions like hepatitis and celiac disease based on risk profiles and symptoms. For diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, endoscopic procedures may be performed to examine the digestive tract, remove polyps, stop internal bleeding, or collect tissue samples. Additional screenings from a gastroenterologist include liver function tests, fecal occult blood tests, and breath tests.
"A colonoscopy is one of the most common preventive screenings done by gastroenterologists, as it can detect colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal problems."
Common Treatments From a Gastroenterologist
Gastroenterologists address various digestive conditions and can tailor treatment plans based on each patient’s diagnosis and medical history. Treatment may involve medications such as acid reducers, antibiotics, or immunosuppressants to manage symptoms and control inflammation. They may offer dietary guidance, particularly when food sensitivities or nutritional deficiencies play a role. In many cases, a combination of therapies will help relieve symptoms, promote healing, and help prevent complications.
For example, a gastroenterologist can provide long-term monitoring or prescribe antiviral medications for liver-related conditions. In more complex cases, infusion therapy may be recommended, particularly for those managing autoimmune conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
"In many cases, a combination of therapies will help relieve symptoms, promote healing, and help prevent complications."
Managing Chronic Digestive Conditions
Many gastrointestinal conditions are chronic and require long-term care. A gastroenterologist works closely with patients to manage conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), among others. Management may involve tracking symptoms over time, adjusting medications, and coordinating care with other healthcare providers. The goal is to control flare-ups and reduce the risk of disease progression or complications.
Lifestyle changes are often part of managing chronic GI conditions. Diet, stress levels, and physical activity can all influence how symptoms present and respond to treatment. That is why regular checkups with a gastroenterologist help monitor disease activity and catch any changes early.
"Management may involve tracking symptoms over time, adjusting medications, and coordinating care with other healthcare providers."
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What is a gastroenterologist?
Q. When and why do you need to see a gastroenterologist?
Q. What tests and screenings can a gastroenterologist perform?
Q. What does treatment from a gastroenterologist look like?
Q. How can a gastroenterologist help with chronic conditions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What conditions does a gastroenterologist treat?
A. A gastroenterologist treats conditions that affect the digestive tract, such as acid reflux, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This specialist also manages liver diseases, gallbladder disorders, pancreatitis, and colorectal cancer. They can provide short-term care for acute conditions and help manage chronic conditions.
Q. Do you need a referral to see a gastroenterologist?
A. In many cases, insurance providers require that a patient get referred to a gastroenterologist by their primary care provider. However, some insurance plans may allow direct scheduling without a referral. Check with the insurance provider to avoid delays and unexpected costs.
Q. What is the difference between a gastroenterologist and a general practitioner?
A. While a general practitioner may provide initial care for mild digestive issues, a gastroenterologist offers in-depth evaluation and advanced procedures like colonoscopy or endoscopy. This is because a gastroenterologist undergoes additional training focused on the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal conditions. The two providers often work together to coordinate care when symptoms become chronic or complex.
Q. What can you expect during the first appointment?
A. During the first appointment, the gastroenterologist will review medical history, current symptoms, and any previous test results. They may perform a brief physical exam and order diagnostic testing, such as lab work, imaging, or an endoscopy. The goal is to establish a clear diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Q. How often should you see a gastroenterologist?
A. It depends on the patient’s health needs, such as whether they have a chronic condition that needs to be managed. For routine preventive care, such as a colon cancer screening, a visit every 10 years may be sufficient for those at average risk. However, patients with ongoing digestive issues or conditions like Crohn’s or liver disease may require more regular care. A gastroenterologist can recommend a care schedule based on the diagnosis, response to treatment, and any changes in symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment With a Gastroenterologist
At Pinnacle Gastroenterology, we take a proactive and personalized approach to digestive health. To learn more about our services, contact our Forest Hills, NY office at (718) 747-9630. We can help you schedule a consultation with a gastroenterologist at a time convenient for you.
Contact Us
Pinnacle Gastroenterology is located at
112-03 Queens Blvd Ste 204
Forest Hills,
NY 11375
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