What to Expect When Visiting a Stomach Doctor

At Advanced Gastroenterology of Central Florida, we understand that occasional stomach discomfort is a part of life, but there are certain instances when consulting a specialist is crucial. Our skilled team of experienced gastroenterologists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating conditions of the digestive system, ensuring you receive expert care when you need it most.

Seeing a stomach doctor is important if you’re experiencing ongoing digestive issues that affect your quality of life. Persistent abdominal pain that doesn’t go away could indicate an underlying condition that requires professional evaluation. Unexplained weight loss is another potential sign of digestive problems, and a specialist can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatments.

Changes in bowel habits, such as chronic diarrhea, constipation, or the presence of blood in the stool, should not be ignored. A stomach doctor can assess these symptoms and suggest effective treatments to address the root cause. Persistent heartburn or acid reflux that disrupts daily life could signal gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition that can be managed with professional care.

If you experience difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food being stuck in your throat, these could be signs of esophageal issues and should be promptly evaluated. Regular check-ups are also recommended for individuals with a family history of gastrointestinal diseases or cancers, serving as an important preventive measure. For those diagnosed with conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome, ongoing management with a stomach doctor is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being.

At Advanced Gastroenterology of Central Florida, Dr. Vinay Katukuri, MD recognizes that persistent symptoms, changes in digestive habits, or a family history of gastrointestinal issues warrant expert care. Prioritizing your digestive health ensures early detection and better outcomes for your well-being.

A stomach doctor treats a variety of conditions related to the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, esophagus, liver, pancreas, and colon. Among the most common stomach problems are acid reflux, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. Other common stomach issues include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which affect the gastrointestinal tract.

They also manage chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and conditions affecting the liver, such as hepatitis and fatty liver disease. Pancreatitis, which involves inflammation of the pancreas, is another issue treated by stomach doctors. Other conditions include celiac disease, lactose intolerance, gallstones, and colorectal cancer prevention through screenings like colonoscopies. Additionally, they treat swallowing disorders, digestive tract infections, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Their goal is to provide comprehensive care and treatment for a wide range of digestive health issues.

Preparing for a visit to a stomach doctor involves a few simple steps to ensure your appointment goes smoothly and that all your concerns are addressed. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Gather Medical Records: Collect any relevant medical records, such as previous test results, imaging reports, and notes from past healthcare providers. Having this information available will help the doctor understand your medical history and current condition more clearly.

• List Symptoms: Before your appointment, note all symptoms you’ve experienced, including their frequency, duration, severity, and any triggers. This will help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

• Document Diet and Medications: Write down your typical dietary habits and list any medications, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs you’re currently taking. This can help your doctor understand how your diet or medications may be affecting your digestive health.

• Prepare Questions: Take a moment to write down any questions or concerns you may have about your condition or treatment options. Being prepared will help you make the most of your time with the doctor.

• Review Family Medical History: It’s helpful to review your family’s medical history, particularly any digestive-related issues, as this information can be important for your diagnosis and treatment plan.

• Day of Appointment: On the day of your appointment, aim to arrive early to complete any paperwork and bring identification and your insurance card. Wearing comfortable clothing as a physical exam may be necessary. If the doctor has provided specific instructions, such as fasting before tests, be sure to follow them for accurate results.

At our practice, we enable you to gain a clearer understanding of your condition and the steps needed for effective management. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and addressing all your gastroenterological needs.

When visiting a stomach doctor for the first time, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your digestive health. The process begins with an in-depth discussion about your medical history. Your doctor will ask about your current symptoms, any previous conditions, medications, and family history related to gastrointestinal issues. Being open and honest during this conversation helps ensure that you receive the most effective care.

After the initial discussion, a physical examination is typically conducted. This may involve pressing on your abdomen to check for any tenderness or swelling and listening to your abdomen with a stethoscope for irregular bowel sounds. Depending on your symptoms and initial findings, further diagnostic tests such as blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan may be recommended to gain a clearer picture of your digestive health.

In some cases, the doctor may suggest additional procedures like an endoscopy or colonoscopy to examine your digestive tract more closely. If these are recommended, the doctor will explain the procedure, preparation, and what to expect during and after it, ensuring you are fully informed and comfortable. Throughout your visit, feel free to ask any questions regarding your symptoms, tests, or potential diagnoses. The doctor will also discuss treatment options and lifestyle changes to help improve your digestive health. After the appointment, you will receive follow-up instructions or plans for further tests or visits as needed.

At Advanced Gastroenterology of Central Florida, our goal is to establish a clear understanding of your digestive health and create an effective management and treatment pathway tailored to you. Contact us today or schedule an appointment and take the first step towards better digestive health. We have convenient locations in Kissimmee FL and Orlando FL. We serve patients from Kissimmee FL, Orlando FL, St. Cloud FL, Meadow Woods FL, Celebration FL, Buenaventura Lakes FL, Williamsburg FL, and Hunters Creek FL.