Common Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms
It’s normal to experience certain digestive symptoms on occasion. But if your symptoms last for more than a few days or recur frequently, they may be a sign of a bigger problem.
Gastroenterologists receive extensive medical training and are specially qualified to diagnose and treat digestive symptoms. You should visit a gastroenterologist in Lubbock if you experience:
- Persistent digestive symptoms that cause pain or discomfort
- New or worsening symptoms
Getting treatment for digestive symptoms can improve your quality of life. And, in some cases, it may even save your life.
If you have concerns about digestive symptoms, we can help. You can schedule an appointment online or call our Lubbock, TX gastroenterology office at 806-696-4440.
Functional Gastroenterologist
Common Digestive Symptoms
Learn about the most common symptoms we see at Lubbock Gastroenterology and when you should see a GI doctor (not doctor Google). Early detection and treatment is often the key to avoiding serious medical issues.
Health Begins In The Gut 70% of the Immune System is Located in the Gut
In The Gut
70% of the Immune System is Located in the Gut
Preparing for a Gastroenterologist Visit
Preparing for a gastroenterologist visit can help you make the most out of your visit. Before your appointment, you should:
Keep a food diary to identify trigger foods. Write down everything you eat and drink and how you feel afterward. Don’t forget to include gum, candy, and cigarettes. You should also record how much you eat and what time you eat.
Keep a stool diary. This can track changes in your bowel movements such as stool consistency. Take note if you have diarrhea, constipation, or normal stools. You should also document if you experience urgency, straining, or incontinence.
Keep a symptom diary. Write down anything that makes your symptoms better or worse. This may include eating certain foods, having a bowel movement, or dealing with stress.
Write down your personal medical history. This includes medications, surgeries, and medical conditions. These factors may put you at an increased risk for certain digestive conditions.
Write down your family history of medical conditions. Some digestive conditions have a genetic link.
Write down any questions you have. This will make sure we address any and all concerns at your appointment.
These records can help us learn important details that may contribute to your symptoms. Sometimes, these details can be easy to forget without writing them down. Once we understand your symptoms, we can perform testing to determine what’s causing them using diagnostic exams like a colonoscopy. This gets you one step closer to finding relief from your digestive discomfort.
We diagnose and treat digestive symptoms daily at our Lubbock, TX gastroenterology office. And we understand that some symptoms can be embarrassing. You can rest assured that we always show professionalism and compassion. Our ultimate goal is to make you feel better.