The digestive system plays a vital role in your overall health, and many factors can impact its function, from diet and stress to underlying health conditions. While occasional stomach discomfort or digestive issues are common, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious problem. When this happens, it's important to consult a gastroenterologist. Your gastroenterologists at Alaska Digestive & Liver Disease in Anchorage and Eagle River, AK, and serving Wasilla, Palmer, and Mat-Su Valley, AK, can explain when to see a gastroenterologist for care. 

When to See Your Gastroenterologist 

Your gastroenterologist in Anchorage and Eagle River, AK, and serving Wasilla, Palmer, and Mat-Su Valley, AK, is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and colon. Gastroenterologists treat a wide range of gastrointestinal (GI) issues, from common conditions like acid reflux to complex diseases such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and liver disorders. 

It’s important to understand what symptoms may mean that it’s time to seek additional help from your doctor. Common signs to look for include: 

• Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort 
• Chronic heartburn or acid reflux 
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Changes in bowel habits 
• Blood in stool 
• Persistent nausea or vomiting 
• Difficulty swallowing 
• Jaundice 
• Excessive gas or bloating 

If you have a family history of gastrointestinal diseases, such as colorectal cancer, IBD, or liver disease, you may need more frequent screenings or early intervention. Even if you don’t have symptoms, your gastroenterologist can help determine an appropriate screening schedule based on your family’s medical history. 

Contact Our Gastroenterologists Today 

Make sure you know when to visit your gastroenterologist! Contact your gastroenterologists at Alaska Digestive & Liver Disease in Anchorage and Eagle River, AK, and serving Wasilla, Palmer, and Mat-Su Valley, AK, to learn when to visit. Call for more information today at (907) 569-1333 for the Eagle River and Anchorage offices and (907) 631-3578 for the Wasilla office.