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7 Reasons to See a Digestive Specialist
From processing nutrients to eliminating waste, your digestive system keeps your body running smoothly. When something isn’t right, it can cause frustrating symptoms that may signal a deeper issue.
Since many digestive problems share symptoms and can be tricky to diagnose, it’s important to see a provider who specializes in gut health. Board-certified gastroenterologist (GI) John Rivas, MD, and the team at the Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, can help.
Our team specializes in providing expert GI care to patients dealing with a wide range of digestive issues. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to see a specialist, keep reading as we explore seven reasons to make an appointment with Dr. Rivas today.
1. Persistent stomach pain
Abdominal pain that doesn’t go away could be a sign of something more serious than just a stomach bug.
If you’re experiencing sharp, dull, or cramping pain that lingers for days or weeks, it may be time to consult a digestive specialist.
Serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastritis, or ulcers could be the underlying cause. A GI provider like Dr. Rivas assesses your symptoms and recommends treatments to ease your discomfort.
2. Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
Occasional heartburn is fairly common, especially after a large or spicy meal. But if you’re dealing with frequent acid reflux or heartburn, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Over time, GERD can damage the lining of your esophagus and lead to complications like Barrett’s esophagus.
A digestive specialist evaluates your symptoms, recommends lifestyle changes, and prescribes medications to manage your condition.
3. Unexplained weight loss or gain
Sudden, unexplained changes in weight are often a sign that something isn’t functioning properly in your digestive system.
Whether it’s a loss of appetite, trouble absorbing nutrients, or issues with your metabolism, a GI provider can run the necessary tests to determine the root cause.
Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and thyroid issues can all affect your weight and require specialized care.
4. Changes in bowel habits
If you notice significant changes in your bowel movements—whether it’s diarrhea, constipation, or the presence of blood—it’s time to see a gastroenterologist.
These changes might point to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, or colon polyps.
Early detection is key in preventing more serious complications, and a digestive specialist can offer treatments to regulate your bowel habits and improve your quality of life.
5. Difficulty swallowing
Struggling to swallow food or liquids may point to a condition called dysphagia, which can occur due to GERD, esophageal strictures, or even throat cancer.
If you’re having trouble swallowing, a gastroenterologist can perform diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy to evaluate the cause and develop a treatment plan to restore comfortable swallowing.
6. Chronic bloating or gas
While occasional bloating and gas are normal, frequent discomfort may signal a digestive issue like lactose intolerance, IBS, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
A digestive specialist helps identify the underlying cause and recommends dietary changes or medications to ease your symptoms.
7. Family history of digestive disease
If you have a family history of digestive conditions like colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease, it’s important to see a gastroenterologist for preventive care.
A GI specialist can recommend regular screenings, like a colonoscopy, and provide guidance on managing your risk factors to catch potential issues early on.
Getting personalized digestive care
At Rivas Digestive Center, Dr. John Rivas and his team of specialists are dedicated to providing personalized care designed to meet your unique needs.
Whether you’re dealing with persistent digestive symptoms or need routine screenings, Dr. Rivas develops a customized treatment plan to address your concerns and improve your digestive health.
If you’re not sure whether your digestive symptoms require a specialist, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rivas at Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, to find out how we can help.
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