Gastroenterologist: what they treat and when to see one
A gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive tract and related organs: the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They also perform screening colonoscopies.
What a gastroenterologist treats
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Chronic heartburn and acid reflux (GERD)
- Constipation and chronic diarrhea
- Bloating and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis
- Blood in the stool
- Liver conditions and colon cancer screening
When to see a gastroenterologist
- Heartburn occurs more than twice a week or needs daily medication
- Abdominal pain persists for more than a few weeks
- Your bowel habits change noticeably and stay changed
- You are losing weight without trying
- You are due for a screening colonoscopy
When to seek urgent or emergency care instead
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following. Do not wait for an appointment.
- Severe, sudden abdominal pain
- Vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds
- Black, tarry, or bloody stools
- Abdominal pain with fever and an inability to keep fluids down
Do you need a referral?
Many insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician before they will cover a specialist visit. Our referral checker shows how each plan type usually works. If you are unsure, start with your primary care physician. They can evaluate the problem, treat it directly if appropriate, and refer you if not.
Related symptom guides
Related specialties
Prepare for your appointment
Appointments are short. Our appointment prep sheet builder puts your symptoms and the right questions on one printable page you can take with you.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (medlineplus.gov)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov)
- Relevant national medical specialty association guidance
This is not medical advice. This guide explains what a specialty treats so you can pick the right type of doctor. It does not diagnose conditions. In an emergency, call 911. Read our full medical disclaimer.